The Two-in-One Hairstyle
The waterfall braid is a beloved style that offers a stunning, cascading effect, making it look like strands of hair are flowing through the braid like a waterfall. It’s a variation of a French braid where you only braid the top section of your hair,
allowing the rest to hang free. But its real secret lies in what happens after you wear it. By braiding your hair this way and leaving it in, you set the stage for effortless, heat-free waves. The unique structure of the braid creates a less uniform, more natural wave pattern compared to traditional three-strand braids, which can sometimes look crimped.
How to Prepare Your Hair
The key to getting your waves to hold starts with preparation. For the best results, it’s ideal to braid your hair when it's slightly damp, but not soaking wet. This allows the hair to dry in the shape of the braid. If your hair is too wet, it might not dry completely overnight; if it's too dry, the waves won't set properly. Before you begin, apply a lightweight mousse or a texturizing spray. This will give your hair some grip, making it easier to braid, and will help the waves hold their shape once you take the braid out. If your hair is freshly washed and silky, a bit of dry shampoo can also add helpful texture.
Step-by-Step: Creating the Waterfall Braid
While it may look intricate, the waterfall braid is based on a repetitive motion. Start by taking a small section of hair near your hairline and divide it into three equal strands, just as you would for a standard braid. Cross the top strand over the middle, then the bottom strand over the middle to begin. Now, here’s the key step: instead of weaving the bottom strand back into the braid, you simply drop it. Let it fall and hang loose. Pick up a piece of hair from right behind the strand you just dropped, and use this new piece as your third strand to continue the braid. You’ll repeat this process—braid, drop the bottom strand, pick up a new one—as you work your way across the back of your head. Once you reach the other side, you can secure the end with a small, clear elastic and pin it discreetly.
The Reveal: From Braid to Waves
Patience is your best friend when it comes to setting the waves. For the best results, leave the waterfall braid in overnight, or for at least several hours until your hair is completely dry. Sleeping with the braid in is an easy way to achieve this. When you’re ready to take it out, be gentle. Carefully undo the elastic and use your fingers to unravel the braid. Avoid brushing the waves, as this can cause them to separate and become frizzy. Instead, gently tousle your hair with your fingertips to loosen the waves and create volume. You can flip your head upside down and give it a gentle shake for some extra lift at the roots.
Making Your Waves Last
Once you've released your soft waves, you'll want to ensure they stick around. A light mist of a flexible-hold hairspray can help lock in the style without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy. You can also apply a small amount of hair oil or a smoothing serum to tame any flyaways and add a bit of shine. To enhance the cascading effect, you can even take the individual strands that were dropped from the waterfall braid and define them with a touch of pomade or styling wax, making them stand out against the rest of your waves.
