The Ultimate Butterfly Braid Guide: Step-by-Step Tutorial, Tips, and Products
Discover how to master the butterfly braid with a detailed tutorial, essential product picks, expert tips, and lasting maintenance advice.
The Ultimate Guide to Creating Butterfly Braids
Butterfly braids have soared in popularity across social feeds and salons, captivating with their mesmerizing, voluminous look. Whether you want a striking protective style or a bold fashion statement, the butterfly braid offers both versatility and flair. This in-depth guide walks you through each step, offers professional advice, and lists the must-have products, ensuring your braid is ready for the spotlight.
What Is a Butterfly Braid?
The butterfly braid is a statement-making hairstyle featuring two thick, dramatic side braids that join into one full, elongated braid at the back—resembling the wings and body of a butterfly. Achieving the iconic volume and shape relies on careful sectioning and ample use of braiding hair extensions, elevating natural hair with added length and fullness. This braid’s sculpted, dimensional look is both protective and eye-catching, ideal for natural hair lovers and trendsetters alike.
Butterfly Braid Step-by-Step Tutorial
Ready to create your own butterfly braid at home? Here is a clear, beginner-friendly, step-by-step guide inspired by trusted salon techniques and expert advice.
Materials & Products You Need
- Braiding hair extensions (for desired length and volume)
- Rat-tail comb (for parting)
- Edge control gel or paste (to tame flyaways)
- Elastic bands (to secure braids)
- Leave-in conditioner spray (to hydrate and protect hair)
- Silk or satin scarf (for overnight protection)
- Optional: Crochet needle (for adding accent hair strands)
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Start with detangled, clean, and conditioned hair. Use a leave-in conditioner spray to ensure your hair is well-hydrated and manageable before styling. This will promote hair health and help your braid last longer.
Step 2: Section and Part
Using a rat-tail comb, create an off-center part from the front hairline to the nape. This part will divide your hair into two main sections—one larger, one slightly smaller for a more dynamic effect.
Step 3: Feed-In Braiding Hair Extensions
- Starting on the right side, begin braiding close to the part, gradually feeding in braiding hair extensions to boost volume and length as you go.
- Keep each braid moderately loose for the signature “butterfly” fullness.
- Braid down until you reach the nape, then temporarily clip or secure the braid without finishing the end.
- Repeat the same process on the left side, ensuring both braids mirror each other in thickness and direction.
Step 4: Merge the Braids
At the nape, cross the two braids and combine them into one unified, thick braid. Continue braiding the combined section with the extensions until you reach your desired length. Secure the end with an elastic band.
Step 5: Create the ‘Butterfly’ Effect
- Gently pull apart and fluff the sides of each braid section, focusing especially on the outer loops.
- This ‘pancaking’ method gives the braid its signature winged, butterfly-like appearance.
- Adjust the width to your preference—more pulling for a larger, bolder braid; less for a neat, subtle effect.
Step 6: Perfect Your Edges
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Apply an edge control gel or styling paste along your hairline. Use a toothbrush, rat-tail comb, or dedicated edge brush to swoop and sculpt baby hairs as desired for a clean, finished look.
Step 7: Set and Protect
- Mist lightly with leave-in conditioner to hydrate and add shine.
- At night, wrap your braid in a silk or satin scarf—or use a silk pillowcase—to reduce frizz and friction, prolonging your style.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Butterfly Braid
- Extensions are essential: Natural hair alone rarely gives the needed volume or length. Opt for high-quality braiding hair that matches your texture.
- Don’t skip edge control: Taming baby hairs and flyaways creates a sharp, sculpted finish. Keep your favorite edge paste or styling gel on hand for touch-ups.
- Leave-in conditioner is your friend: Moisturize both your natural hair and scalp before, during, and after braiding to avoid dryness.
- Invest in a silk scarf: Sleeping on or tying up your hair in silk or satin keeps your style intact and healthy.
- Be gentle when fluffing: Tug the braid segments apart gently to avoid damaging your hair or causing frizz.
Best Edge Control and Leave-In Conditioners for Braids
- Go Sleek Hair Edge Paste – great for firm yet flexible hold.
- The Frontal Queen Baby Hair Control – lightweight, excellent for slick edges.
- Hicks Total Transformations Edges Styling Gel – holds even stubborn flyaways in place.
- Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers for Braiders – specially made for braided styles, adds shine and smoothness.
- Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner – hydrates without weighing hair down.
- Curls So So Smooth Vitamin C Leave-In Conditioner – helps keep both natural hair and extensions soft.
- Design Essentials Detangling Leave-In Conditioner – detangles while locking in moisture.
- Creme of Nature Strength & Shine Leave-In Conditioner – for extra boost on brittle hair types.
How to Make Your Butterfly Braid Last
Protective styles like the butterfly braid can last from several days to a week or more when properly maintained. Here’s how to keep yours looking fresh and beautiful:
- Spritz a leave-in conditioner on your braid and scalp daily to prevent dryness and itchiness.
- Reapply edge control as needed to maintain crisp, clean lines.
- At night, always wrap or cover your braid to reduce frizz and breakage.
- Resist the urge to over-fluff or manipulate the braid after the initial pancaking; this avoids loosening the structure.
Common Butterfly Braid Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- Skipping extensions: Without extensions, the braid lacks drama and shape. Use at least one pack of braiding hair for fullness.
- Braiding too tightly: Over-tight braiding can cause discomfort and even breakage. Keep it snug, but not stiff.
- Neglecting scalp care: Underneath the style, your scalp needs love. Dryness and buildup can lead to itch and irritation, so cleanse and hydrate before braiding.
- Ignoring edge work: Edges frame your face. Spend a few extra minutes swooping and smoothing for a salon-quality appearance.
Pro Styling Suggestions
- Add colored extensions for a playful, festival-ready vibe.
- Clip in hair jewelry or cuffs for added glam.
- Let a few curls or small accent braids peek from the butterfly braid for a creative twist.
Table: Recommended Products for the Perfect Butterfly Braid
| Product | Use | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Go Sleek Hair Edge Paste | Edge control & finishing | $20 |
| Shine ‘n Jam Magic Fingers | Braid smoothing & shine | $8–$12 |
| Mizani 25 Miracle Milk | Leave-in conditioner | $20–$22 |
| Curls So So Smooth Leave-In | Daily moisture | $10–$12 |
| Crochet needle | Adding hair accents | $2–$6 |
| Silk scarf/bonnet | Overnight protection | $8–$15 |
Butterfly Braid Inspiration
- Classic jet-black butterfly braid for timeless beauty.
- Ombre-colored extensions for a bold gradient look.
- Accessorized with rings or beads for a festival style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can wear a butterfly braid?
A: Butterfly braids are versatile and suit most hair types, textures, and lengths—extensions make the look achievable for all.
Q: How long does a butterfly braid take to create?
A: With some braiding experience, the entire style can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on hair thickness and length.
Q: Will the butterfly braid damage my hair?
A: When done gently and maintained with proper moisture, the butterfly braid is a protective style that can help retain length and minimize breakage.
Q: How do I care for my scalp with butterfly braids?
A: Spritz your scalp with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or scalp oil every few days to keep it moisturized and itch-free.
Q: Can I sleep with a butterfly braid?
A: Yes. Always cover your braid with a silk scarf or bonnet at night to reduce friction and preserve the style.
Final Thoughts
The butterfly braid is more than just a protective hairstyle—it’s an empowering, creative statement that showcases individuality and skill. With each section, twist, and fluff, you transform hair into art. Whether you’re headed to a special event or want an everyday standout look, this guide gives you all you need for a perfect, Instagram-worthy butterfly braid. Revisit these steps as needed, experiment with products and accessorizing, and most importantly, wear your braid with confidence!
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a29577540/butterfly-braid-how-to/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iN2HECKroA
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a32756834/best-of-butterfly-braids-tutorial/
- https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8kh45g
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wJ0Yvb8FcE
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXxWd-8-sIE
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