To create an infinity braid, you essentially make figure eights with a strand of hair, picking up more hair from each side as you go. Think of it as a figure-8 wrapping motion repeated down the head of hair, incorporating new sections with each pass.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
-
Preparation: Begin by brushing the hair to remove any tangles. You might find it helpful to lightly dampen the hair or use a texturizing spray to give it some grip.
-
Starting the Braid: Take a section of hair from the top of the head. Divide this section into two strands.
-
Creating the Figure Eight:
- Take the right strand and cross it over and under the left strand, forming the first part of a figure eight.
- Now, bring that strand around the back to the right side, preparing to incorporate more hair.
-
Incorporating New Hair: Pick up a new section of hair from the right side of the head and add it to the strand you just moved.
-
Continuing the Figure Eight: Cross the (now thicker) right strand over and under the left strand, completing the figure eight shape.
-
Adding Hair from the Left: Pick up a new section of hair from the left side of the head and add it to the left strand.
-
Repeat: Continue steps 4-6, alternating sides, until you reach the nape of the neck or the desired length of the braid. Each time, you're creating a figure eight with the wrapping strand and pulling in hair from the sides.
-
Securing the Braid: Once you've reached the end, secure the braid with a hair tie.
Key Tips:
- Tension: Maintain even tension throughout the braid to create a consistent look.
- Practice: It might take a few tries to get the hang of the figure-eight motion.
- Variations: You can vary the thickness of the sections you pick up, as well as the tightness of the braid, to create different looks. A looser braid creates a more bohemian look, while a tighter braid appears more polished.
The infinity braid, also sometimes called a Figure 8 braid, offers a unique and visually interesting alternative to traditional braids. With a little practice, you can easily master this beautiful and versatile hairstyle.