How to do Bubble Braids on Natural Hair

bubble braids

Bubble braids is a simple but chic protective hairstyle for natural hair. It is perfect for showcasing your unique style.

Bubble braids work well in many settings, dressed up or down, and can be customized with colors and accessories

In this article, we'll cover what bubble braids are, different styles you can try, and how to do them at home.

What is Bubble Braids?

Bubble braids, also known as balloon ponytails, are a fun deviation from the traditional ponytail.

Although they have the word "braids" in their name, they are not actually braids.

Rather than having the hair fall in a straight ponytail, chunky puffs are created with the aid of elastic bands, giving a look that resembles bubbles.

The best thing about this particular hairstyle is that it is great for all hair types, whether straight or curly, long or short.

3 Reasons to Try Bubble Braids

Bubble braids are a simple yet stylish protective hairstyle. In addition to that, here are some other reasons to give it a go:

1. Quick and Easy

One common pet peeve many naturals have when doing a protective style is having to sit for hours.

Bubble braids eliminate the long waiting time, as you can have this hairstyle ready in 30 minutes or less.

2. Low Budget

If you want a protective hairstyle without breaking the bank, this hairstyle is perfect for you!

You'll only need a few elastic bands (depending on how many bubbles you want), hair gel, a hair dryer, your silk scarf, and one pack of extensions.

You probably already have most of these items at home, so this method won't cost you much money.

3. Easy to Maintain

Bubble braids are easy to maintain. You only need a few products: hair gel, a toothbrush for hair, a satin or silk scarf, and a shower cap.

    5 Popular Bubble Braids Hairstyles

    1. The Afro Puff Bubble Braids

    The Afro Puff Bubble Braids

    2. Bubble Braids Updo

    Bubble Braids Updo

    3. Fulani Bubble Braids

    Fulani Bubble Braids

    4. Kiddies Bubble Braids

    Kiddies Bubble Braids

    5. Pigtails Bubble Braids

    Pigtails Bubble Braids

    How to Do Bubble Braid: Step-by-step Tutorial

    As I mentioned earlier, you can either have your bubble braids done by a hairstylist or do them yourself.

    If you decide to do them yourself, follow this step-by-step tutorial below:

    What you need

    1. Hair gel
    2. Toothbrush
    3. Hair extension
    4. Silk scarf (depending on the method you will be using)
    5. Hairdryer (depending on the method you will be using)
    6. Elastic bands
    7. Bobby pins

    Step 1: Apply your hair gel

    woman applying gel to natural hair
    • Apply hair gel generously all over your natural hair until every strand is laid.

    Step 2: Tie your natural hair in a bun

    woman tying hair in a bun
    • Next, use an elastic band to tie your hair in a bun.

    Step 3: Dry your hair

    woman tying hair in scarf
    • Wrap a silk or satin scarf around your hair and leave it to dry overnight. Alternatively, you can use a blow dryer to dry your gelled hair if you prefer.

    Step 4: Create your bubble braids

    woman creating bubble braids on hair extension
    woman creating bubble braids on hair extension
    • First, hang your hair extension loosely and pin it to something firm.
    • Cut open the elastic bands before using them, and then tie them around your extension.
    • Wrap each elastic band securely around the extension, one at a time, leaving some space in between each band as shown in the GIF.
    • Trim off any excess
    • Use your fingers to fluff the extension into bubbles. The number of bubbles you create depends on your preference.

    Step 5: Attach your bubble braids

    woman attaching bubble braids to bun
    • Tie an elastic band tightly around the end of your bubble braids (the end that you will attach to your bun), without cutting it.
      Make sure to leave enough length to also tie around your bun, as you will be using the same elastic band to connect your bubble braids to your bun.
    woman tucking hair into bubble braids
    • After tying, use your fingers to tuck any stray hair into the bun.
    woman using bobby pins on bubble braids
    • Finally, use your bobby pins to secure the bubble braids to your bun.
    woman showing off finished bubble braids

    Well done, girl! You have successfully created the bubble braids hairstyle!

    Check out this tutorial video by Journey with Izy for more details on how to do bubble braids.

    Simple Maintenance Tips for Bubble Braid

    1. Wrap your bubble braids into a bun and cover them with a shower cap when bathing. This prevents water from your bath from touching the gel in your natural hair or your bubble braids.
    2. When sleeping, wrap your bubble braids into a bun and cover your head with a satin scarf to maintain the sleek look of your gelled natural hair as you turn in your sleep.
    3. If your edges or some strands of your natural hair come off from the gel, apply a small amount of gel to that part to lay them back.

    Are Bubble Braids Good for Natural Hair?

    Yes, bubble braids are a good and safe option for your natural hair.

    What Type of Extension Should I Use for Bubble Braids?

    There is no specific brand of hair extension recommended for bubble braids, but consider the following when selecting the extension:

    • Texture: The texture of the extension should be the same or at least similar to that of your natural hair to enable a seamless blend.
    • Length/Hairstyle: The desired length/hairstyle of your bubble braids will determine if you need one or more packs of extensions.

    How Long Will It Take to Do Bubble Braids?

    The estimated time for getting your bubble braids done is between 5 to 25 minutes. However, the actual time it takes will depend on you and your hair.

    How Long Do Bubble Braids Last?

    Bubble braids are a gorgeous hairstyle, but they don't last long. Typically, they only last for a few days.