How to Create Two Freestyle Braids with Curly Ends: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Master the trendy two freestyle braids with curly ends—protective, stylish, and easy to customize all year round.
How to Create Two Freestyle Braids with Curly Ends
Looking for a protective hairstyle that’s equal parts playful and grown-up? Meet the two freestyle braids with curly ends. This style blends the nostalgia of classic braided pigtails with the sophistication and versatility that modern looks demand. It’s perfect for any season, allowing for low-maintenance styling while showing off your natural texture and length. Follow this in-depth tutorial to learn how to achieve this look, maintain it, and make it uniquely yours.
What Are Two Freestyle Braids with Curly Ends?
Two freestyle braids with curly ends combine two large, feed-in braids (one on each side) that incorporate tiny cornrows and leave the ends undone and curly. The style is designed for versatility, offering volume, definition, and a contemporary twist on classic braids.
Key features:
- Large, feed-in braids (pigtail style) with intricate parting.
- Ends left loose and curly for extra movement and texture.
- Scalp care and edge control emphasized for a sleek, healthy look.
- Great for all hair types and lengths—just add extensions as needed.
Preparation: What You Need to Know Before Braiding
Executing this style requires thoughtful prep. Prioritize the health of your natural hair and set yourself up for a successful protective style.
Essential Scalp Care Tips
- Cleansing: Begin with a clean, detangled scalp. This reduces buildup and irritation for the duration of your style.
- Hydration: Spritz a leave-in conditioner directly onto your scalp and natural hair. This keeps roots moisturized, which promotes growth and comfort while your hair is in braids.
Recommended Leave-ins:
- Curls So So Smooth Vitamin C Leave-In Conditioner
- Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner
- Design Essentials Detangling Leave-In Conditioner
- Creme of Nature Strength & Shine Leave-In Conditioner
Step-by-Step Guide: Creating Two Freestyle Braids with Curly Ends
Step 1: Part and Prepare
- Middle Part: Use a rat-tail comb for a clean, even part down the center of your scalp, dividing your hair from forehead to nape.
- Mini Braids: Section four small pieces along the center part; braid them downwards, starting from the front hairline and continuing to the nape. These mini braids add detail and hold foundational structure.
- Edge Control: Place a golf-ball-sized amount of edge control on the back of your hand so it’s easy to access as you work. Apply along the hairline and partings to tame flyaways and keep sections sleek.
Step 2: Begin the Feed-In Braids
- Braiding Hair: Select pre-stretched, natural-texture braiding hair if you want longer or fuller results. This hair blends seamlessly when your own is blown out.
- Feed-In Technique: Starting near the hairline on one side, create a large cornrow, feeding in sections of braiding hair as you braid backward towards the nape. This ensures the braid sits flat and isn’t too heavy on edges or scalp.
- Repeat: Copy this process on the other side, matching width and tightness for a symmetrical look.
Step 3: Secure and Leave Curly Ends
- Finish Braids: Once you reach the ends of your natural hair, secure each braid with a small, clear elastic or rubber band. Do not braid all the way to the end—leave the last several inches loose.
- Add Curly Ends: For bounce and definition, add crochet curly hair extensions at the unfinished ends if extra length or fullness is desired:
- Insert a crochet hook into the braid, just before the rubber band.
- Attach a small piece of curly hair to the hook, pull through, and secure by knotting gently or looping.
- Repeat along the unfinished ends for volume and uniform curls.
- Twist or separate curls as needed for a natural look.
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Step 4: Set and Protect
- Mousse Application: Pump out 2-3 golf-ball-sized portions of styling mousse onto your hands. Smooth mousse along the finished braids and curly ends to lock in style and control frizz.
- Drying: Use a blow dryer with a diffuser on low heat to set the mousse. This adds shine and ensures the style holds.
- Final Touch: Wrap hair in a silk or satin scarf before bed to maintain a sleek finish and protect curls.
Products You’ll Need
| Category | Suggested Product Examples |
|---|---|
| Leave-In Conditioner | Curls So So Smooth Vitamin C, Mizani 25 Miracle Milk, Design Essentials Detangling Leave-In |
| Edge Control | Magic Fingers Studio Edge Control, Shine ‘n Jam |
| Styling Mousse | Lotus Wrap Foaming Mousse, Nairobi Wrapp-It Shine Foaming Lotion |
| Braiding Hair | X-Pression Pre-stretched, Freetress Crochet Curly Extensions |
| Tools | Rat-tail comb, rubber bands, crochet hook, silk or satin scarf, blow dryer (with diffuser) |
Pro Tips for the Perfect Freestyle Braids
- Blend Hair Well: If using extensions, ensure they match your natural texture and are pre-stretched for easy manipulation.
- Scalp Oil: Apply light oil or scalp serum as needed during the wearing process to soothe any tightness and keep skin nourished.
- Don’t Over-Braid the Ends: Leaving ends loose prevents tension and breakage.
- Frizz Control: Use mousse both at installation and throughout the wear week as needed.
- Edge Sleeking: For ultra-sleek edges, gently brush baby hairs with a soft brush after applying edge control.
How to Maintain Two Freestyle Braids with Curly Ends
Proper maintenance preserves the style, protects your hair, and keeps your braids looking polished.
- Nighttime Care: Always cover braids with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to minimize friction and prevent frizz.
- Mist & Refresh: Regularly mist the scalp and braids with diluted leave-in conditioner for continued moisture.
- Handle Curls Gently: Use your fingers to separate and fluff curly ends; avoid using combs, which can tangle or frizz the hair.
- Avoid Excess Water: Try not to get the braids wet too often, as excessive moisture can loosen the feed-in braids or make curly ends frizzier.
- Reapply Edge Control: Freshen up your edges every morning as needed for ongoing sleekness.
Why You’ll Love This Look
- Versatile: Suited for casual days, events, or even the gym, this style adapts to many settings.
- Protective: Keeps natural hair tucked away and guarded from environmental stressors.
- Scalp Access: Easy to moisturize and treat scalp underneath the braids.
- Customizable: Switch up the part, braid width, or add colored extensions to personalize.
- Low Maintenance: When protected at night, this look can last up to two weeks or more with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long do two freestyle braids with curly ends last?
A: With proper care, these braids can last 1-2 weeks, sometimes even longer depending on your natural hair texture and maintenance routine.
Q: Which hair types can wear this style?
A: This look is versatile and works for most hair textures, from straight to highly textured. For short or fine hair, add extra extensions for fullness.
Q: How do you keep braids from frizzing?
A: Apply styling mousse regularly, use a silk scarf at night, and refresh with leave-in spray as needed to keep the style looking polished.
Q: Will the curly ends get tangled?
A: The key is to use high-quality curly extensions and avoid excessive manipulation. Finger-comb curls rather than using a brush or comb.
Q: Can you wash your scalp with this style?
A: Lightly cleanse or spritz the scalp with diluted shampoo or leave-in conditioner using a spray bottle, being careful not to saturate the braids.
Expert Credits
Hair: Styled by Magic Fingers Studio
Makeup: By Lakeisha Dale
Styling: By Ann Wang
Beauty Assistant: Ama Kwarteng
Senior Director: Jason Ikeler
Producer: Amanda Kabbabe
Videographer: Josh Archer
Final Thoughts
The two freestyle braids with curly ends are the ideal blend of modern flair and protective care. With a little practice and the right products, you can rock this look confidently, knowing your hair is healthy, styled, and ready for anything.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4TQhRhi0yc
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a29109200/two-freestyle-braids-how-to/
- https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7qjxkc
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a30460453/how-to-two-freestyle-braids-curly-ends/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3RsTwjlOeg
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3aGS_z5RH4
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrx4fxhgMUObLCxt_QbtT-1Qqx0oN2-EN
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqyL4849Mqk
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