How to Master the Double Loc Bun Hairstyle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Level up your protective style game with this easy, eye-catching double loc bun tutorial for all hair lengths and textures.
The double loc bun is an eye-catching, protective hairstyle that blends creativity, tradition, and trend. Whether you have natural locs, faux locs, or you’re experimenting with protective styling, this look is a playful way to elevate your everyday hair game. Ready to nail the double bun? Here’s everything you need to know, including prep, tools, step-by-step instructions, essential products, and pro tips for a flawless finish.
Table of Contents
- Why Try a Double Loc Bun?
- Essential Tools & Products
- Step-by-Step Double Loc Bun Tutorial
- Pro Tips and Tricks for Perfect Buns
- Aftercare and Maintenance
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Try a Double Loc Bun?
Double loc buns are more than a cute hairstyle—they offer multiple benefits for loc’d hair:
- Protective Styling: Buns keep ends tucked away, reducing exposure to environmental stressors and manipulation.
- Low Maintenance: Once styled, loc buns stay secure and require minimal daily upkeep.
- Versatile Aesthetic: The double bun instantly lends a playful, polished, or edgy vibe, depending on how you customize the look.
- Works on Short or Long Locs: With faux locs or foam bun inserts, anyone can achieve this style—regardless of natural hair length.
Essential Tools & Products
Before you dive in, gather these must-have tools and products for the best results:
- Detangling Leave-In Conditioner (e.g., Design Essentials, Creme of Nature): To soften and hydrate locs before styling.
- Styling Gel or Edge Control: Keeps flyaways at bay and gives a sleek finish.
- Foam/Synthetic Bun Maker: Helps to shape and stack the second bun securely, especially if your natural locs lack the length or density for both buns.
- Bobby Pins: For securing locs and buns in place.
- Thread and Needle (optional): For extra hold, especially when stacking buns.
- Wide-Tooth Comb or Loc Brush: For gentle detangling and smoothing roots.
- Hair Ties: Preferably snag-free, to minimize damage or tension on your roots.
- Lightweight Oil: Prevents scalp dryness throughout the process.
Recommended Products Table
| Product | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Design Essentials Detangling Leave-In Conditioner | Softening, hydrating, prepping locs |
| Creme of Nature Strength & Shine Leave-In | Moisturizing and strengthening locs before styling |
| Edge Control Gel | Smoothing edges and taming frizz |
| Foam Bun Inserts | Provides structure for the upper bun |
Step-by-Step Double Loc Bun Tutorial
1. Prep and Condition Your Locs
Start with clean or refreshed locs. Apply a leave-in conditioner throughout the length of your hair to ensure moisture, followed by a few drops of lightweight oil on your scalp.
- Focus on detangling any knots or snags gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- Pay special attention to your roots and edges to create a smooth foundation.
2. The Palm Roll Technique for Neat Locs
If your locs need refreshing, use the palm roll technique to re-twist:
- Apply gel or loc cream along the length of each sectioned loc.
- With two hands, place the loc between your palms and gently roll it back and forth, moving from root to tip.
- This creates a uniform, sleek look and helps tuck away flyaways without damaging your roots.
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3. Section and Leave Out Face-Framing Locs
For a stylish finish, leave out a few locs at the front to create a natural side bang or face-framing wisps.
- Part a small section near your hairline and set these locs aside before styling the rest.
- This simple touch softens the overall style and adds character.
4. Create the First Bun at the Crown
Gather the remaining locs into a ponytail at the crown or the back of your head, depending on your preferred bun placement.
- Use a strong, snag-free hair tie to secure the ponytail firmly but not too tight.
- Take the ponytail and start wrapping the locs around themselves in a circular motion until you form a bun shape.
- Tuck the ends securely under the bun and use bobby pins to hold them in place.
- Adjust the bun for fullness and balance—don’t worry about making it too neat, as a bit of volume adds interest.
5. Use a Foam Bun for the Second Bun
To achieve the stacked double bun effect, you’ll need a foam bun insert (often used for ballerina buns):
- Place the foam bun on top of your first bun.
- Take one or more long locs and wrap them around the foam bun, creating a unified look with your natural hair.
- Use bobby pins or, for extra-hold, a needle and thread to secure the foam bun to the base bun and your scalp.
- Make sure everything feels snug, especially if you plan on wearing the style for more than a day.
6. Style and Secure the Look
- Adjust both buns for proportion and placement—they can be the same size or you can make the top bun slightly smaller for a classic stacked effect.
- Reposition any loose locs and tuck stray ends firmly under each bun.
- Smooth down edges with gel, and if desired, lay baby hairs with a brush or edge tool for a sleek perimeter.
Pro Tips and Tricks for Perfect Buns
- Don’t Skip the Moisture: Moisturized locs are easier to manipulate and less prone to breakage. Focus on both hair and scalp before and after styling.
- Go Light on the Pins: Use just enough bobby pins to secure the buns without causing tension at your roots.
- Foam Buns Save Weight: Using a foam bun insert reduces the load on your natural hair and is especially helpful if your locs aren’t long or thick enough for a dramatic stacked look.
- For Extra Hold: Secure the foam bun with both pins and needle-and-thread if needed, but avoid overdoing it—comfort is key!
- Enhance With Accessories: Add hair jewelry, scarves, or colorful pins to personalize and elevate your double bun.
Double Loc Bun: Do’s and Don’ts Table
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Moisturize hair and scalp | Style on very dry or brittle locs |
| Use foam/synthetic bun for extra length | Force buns if hair is too short—use inserts |
| Leave out face-framing locs for softness | Pull or twist too tightly at edges |
| Secure with just enough pins for comfort | Overload with too many pins, causing pain |
Aftercare and Maintenance Tips
- Wrap at Night: Use a silk or satin scarf to wrap your buns and maintain the style overnight.
- Oils for Scalp Health: Apply a lightweight oil to your scalp daily or every other day to keep it hydrated without buildup.
- Edge Touch-Ups: Smooth edges and refresh frizz with edge control or a light-hold gel as needed.
- Limit Duration: Keep your double buns in for a few days at a time to avoid tension or breakage at the roots. Remove and refresh the style regularly, especially if you notice any tension bumps at your scalp or edges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can you do a double loc bun on short locs?
A: Yes! Use a foam or synthetic bun insert if your locs aren’t long enough. You can also mix in faux locs for added length and volume.
Q: Will this style damage my locs?
A: Double buns are gentle when done correctly—avoid over-tightening and always moisturize before styling. Take breaks in between styles to let your scalp rest.
Q: How do I keep the buns secure all day?
A: Use strong hair ties and bobby pins, and don’t hesitate to reinforce with a needle and thread for special occasions. Wrapping at night prevents shifting while you sleep.
Q: What if my edges are sensitive?
A: Focus the tension further back on your head and always apply a nourishing edge product before slicking hair down. Avoid styling on irritated or sore areas.
Q: How can I accessorize my double loc buns?
A: Add beads, hair rings, scarves, fabric wraps, or colorful pins. Accessories not only amplify the look but can also help disguise pins or foam inserts.
Styling Inspiration and Final Thoughts
The double loc bun is a creative, elegant, and practical way to rock locs or faux locs, whether for work, weekend, or special events. With the right prep and tools, anyone can achieve this effortless-yet-intricate look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with size, placement, or accessories to make the style truly your own!
Expert Credits
- Hair: Magic Fingers Studio
- Beauty Editor: Ama Kwarteng
More Protective Styles to Try
- Two-Stitch Bun Braids: For a geometric, bold update, try combining two-parted stitch braids with double buns.
- High Single Loc Bun: A classic and quick alternative for days you want something simple.
- Crown Braid with Locs: Wrapping locs in a headband fashion for regal occasions.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a34510294/double-loc-bun-tutorial/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXIO9yhadXE
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a35685944/two-braid-stitch-buns-tutorial/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h58kjq13iEo
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXxWd-8-sIE
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhOlihLHP3I
- https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7v6xb4
- https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7zorif
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