How to Do Bubble Braids: Step-by-Step Guide + Styling Tips

Bubble braids have taken over red carpets, Instagram feeds, and everyday style routines—and for good reason. This playful, versatile look offers the drama of braids without the commitment or complexity. Whether you’re dressing up for a festival or adding flair to your everyday ponytail, bubble braids are a go-to option for instant impact.

What Are Bubble Braids? A Fresh Take on Braiding

Unlike traditional braids, bubble braids aren’t technically braided at all. Instead, they use hair ties spaced along a ponytail or pigtail to create “bubbled” sections that mimic the appearance of braid segments. The result? A dimensional, voluminous look that feels youthful yet modern.
You can wear bubble braids as a single statement braid, double ponytails, or even integrate them into updos. They’re incredibly beginner-friendly and work well with all hair types and lengths (with or without extensions).

Why Bubble Braids Are Worth the Hype

Bubble braids offer more than just style—they’re practical, gentle on the hair, and endlessly customizable. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

• Low Tension: They don’t tug at the scalp like traditional tight braids.
• Quick Styling: Easy to do at home with minimal tools or experience.
• Protective Element: Keeps hair organized and less prone to tangling.
• Versatile Looks: Works for sleek, edgy, romantic, or playful styles.

Bubble Braids vs Traditional Braids: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Bubble Braids	Traditional Braids
Technique	Elastic bands + fluffing	Weaving three or more strands
Time to Create	5–15 minutes	20–60 minutes
Skill Level	Beginner-friendly	Requires braiding technique
Scalp Tension	Minimal	Moderate to high
Styling Variety	High—can be mixed into any hairstyle	High but more structured

How to Create Bubble Braids: Master the Look Step-by-Step

What You’ll Need

• Rat-tail comb (for parting) (Buy Here)
• Hair elastics (clear or matching your hair color) (Buy Here)
• Hair gel or mousse (optional for sleekness) (Buy Here)
• Bobby pins (for securing ends if needed) (Buy here)
• Extensions (optional for added length or volume)

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Bubble Braids

Bubble braids are one of the easiest trending hairstyles to pull off, but getting them to look polished and camera-ready takes the right prep and a few styling tricks. Here’s how to achieve bubble braids that are sleek, structured, and full of bounce:

Step 1: Start with Clean, Tangle-Free Hair

• Wash and condition your hair thoroughly.
• Detangle using a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush to prevent snags during styling.
• Blow-dry or air-dry your hair, depending on your desired texture (sleek or natural).

Pro Tip: For extra hold and shine, apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner or styling mousse before you begin.

Step 2: Decide on Your Style & Parting

• Choose your bubble braid layout—single high ponytail, double ponytails, braided bubble crown, etc.
• Use a rat-tail comb to part your hair (center or side, depending on the look).
• Smooth your hair with a brush to eliminate bumps and apply edge control if you want a sleek finish.

Pro Tip: A deep side part or zigzag part can add flair and shape to your overall style.

Step 3: Create the Base Ponytail(s)

• Gather your hair into your desired base—this could be a single ponytail, pigtails, or even multiple ponytails stacked down the back.
• Secure each base with a sturdy elastic that matches your hair color or is clear.

Pro Tip: For volume at the crown, lightly tease the hair at the roots before tying the base ponytail.

Step 4: Add the “Bubbles” Down the Length

• Take more elastics and begin tying them down the length of the ponytail, spacing them about 1.5–2 inches apart.
• After placing each elastic, gently tug and fluff the hair between the elastics outward to create the round, bubble shape.
• Continue this process to the end of the ponytail.

Pro Tip: For fuller bubbles, pull out the hair more in each section, but avoid over-fluffing to prevent frizz or unevenness.

Step 5: Conceal the Elastics (Optional but Polished)

• Take a small strand of hair from just beneath each elastic and wrap it around the band to conceal it.
• Secure the wrapped hair with a bobby pin tucked underneath or use a bit of styling gel to hold it in place.

Pro Tip: Use curly extensions or synthetic hair to wrap around for added texture or color contrast.

Step 6: Lock in the Style

• Mist the finished bubble braid(s) with a light-hold hairspray or shine mist.
• Smooth down any flyaways or fuzz with styling gel or edge control around the hairline.
• For a longer-lasting style, tie a silk scarf around your head for 10 minutes to set the look.

Pro Tip: If you’re going for a textured look, skip the gel and let your natural volume give the bubbles dimension.

How to Maintain and Care for Bubble Braids

Bubble braids don’t require much upkeep, but a few tips can extend their lifespan and keep your hair healthy underneath:

• Avoid Over-tightening: Loose styling prevents breakage at the roots.
• Use Silk Accessories: Swap out rubber bands for silk or soft-coated elastics to reduce friction.
• Refresh Daily: Fluff the bubbles and reapply gel to the base if needed.
• Remove Gently: Never yank the elastics—use an elastic remover or gently unwind to avoid pulling strands.

Final Thoughts

Bubble braids are more than a passing trend—they’re a fun, accessible way to transform your look in minutes. With zero braiding skills required and limitless styling possibilities, they’re perfect for anyone wanting to make a bold yet effortless statement. Whether you’re prepping for a night out, festival, or simply want to upgrade your everyday ponytail, bubble braids are your new go-to.