How to Create Two Cross Braided Buns

How to Master Two Cross Braided Buns: The Ultimate Style Guide

If your hairstyle rotation craves fresh energy, two cross braided buns might be exactly what you need. This look has caught fire in the world of protective styles, featured on Cosmopolitan’s ‘The Braid Up’ and executed by stylists who continually introduce innovative trends. With its bold parting, textured buns, and artful accessories, the two cross braided buns offer not just protection for natural hair but also a chance to turn heads wherever you go.

Why Try Two Cross Braided Buns?

This style is a creative twist on traditional braided buns. It perfectly blends practicality with flair. Beyond looking stylish, the two cross buns:

• Safeguard your natural hair from daily manipulation and breakage
• Suit a range of textures and hair lengths
• Offer a versatile base for color play, beads, and other embellishments
• Can last for several days with proper upkeep

Let’s explore how to achieve this look at home, along with essential care and styling tips that keep your buns looking flawless.

Step-by-Step: How to Create Two Cross Braided Buns

Before you begin, gather your tools:

• Fine-tooth comb (for parting)
• Detangling brush
• Edge control gel
• Braiding hair (for added length and volume—optional)
• Elastic bands and bobby pins
• Styling mousse
• Moisturizing oils (argan, jojoba, etc.)
• Beads or cuffs for accessorizing

1. Prep and Section

   Start with clean, detangled, and lightly moisturized hair. Section your hair in the middle from forehead to nape, then cross-section each half horizontally at an angle (creating an X or cross shape). Clip sections to keep them distinct.

2. Braid Each Section

   From your cross sections, braid each quadrant tightly. For extra length or fullness, feed in braiding hair as you plait. The braids should angle towards the places where you’ll create the buns at the lower back of your head.

3. Create the Buns

   Once each section is braided, gather the tails and sculpt them into two interlocking or “crossed” low buns at the nape. Secure with elastic bands or pins as needed.

4. Lay Your Edges

   Perfect your hairline by applying edge control and swooping baby hairs for a polished finish. Use a small brush or edge tool to shape the wisps as desired.

5. Add Accessories

   Elevate your look with beads, cuffs, or colored string. Thread beads onto the ends of the braids before wrapping buns, or clamp cuffs onto exposed braids for extra shine.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cross Braided Buns

• Moisturize Your Scalp

  Use nourishing oils like argan or jojoba to prevent dryness and irritation. Massage oil into your scalp every few days—even with your braids in—to avoid flaky skin and stimulate healthy roots.

• Play With Color

  Don’t feel limited to your natural tone. As seasons shift, consider adding braiding hair in deep reds, golds, or subtle ombrés. Highlighted extensions or bold pops of color weave personality into your style.

• Lay Those Edges Properly

  Use a non-drying, hydrating edge control to keep your baby hairs sleek and flake-free. Some popular options include:

  • Go Sleek Hair Edge Paste
  • The Frontal Queen Baby Hair Control
  • Hicks Total Transformations Edges Styling Gel
  • Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers for Braiders
• Accessorize With Beads

  Shop unique beads and cuffs for braids on crafting sites or local beauty stores. Pearlescent beads, metallic cuffs, or even colorful threads immediately elevate your look with little effort.

Protective Styling: Why It Matters

The two cross braided buns aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re a protective style. This means they help reduce the daily stress your hair faces, especially if your hair is prone to dryness or breakage. Keeping your strands tucked away in braids and buns can help retain length and allow new growth to thrive. Protective styling is an integral part of many natural hair journeys, providing both style versatility and practical benefits.

Combining Style and Hair Health

• Hydration Is Key: Protective styles work best on moisturized, healthy hair. Every few days, apply a lightweight oil or moisturizing spray to your scalp and length.
• Cleanse Carefully: Use a diluted shampoo or scalp cleanser between installations to keep buildup at bay. Pat dry gently and follow up with oil.
• Sleep Protection: Wrap your buns in a silk or satin scarf at night or use a large bonnet to reduce frizz and preserve your edges.

Creative Inspiration: Customizing Your Cross Braided Buns

• Match seasonal trends with colored extensions—think copper for autumn or blonde ombré for summer brightness.
• Vary part shapes—diagonal, zigzag, or even heart-shaped sections add visual tension.
• Expand bun size by feeding in thicker braiding hair or adding curly extensions for extra volume.
• Layer beads and cuffs at different braid lengths for a multi-dimensional effect.
• Try unique accessories—silk ribbons, metallic thread, or gemstone hairpins for special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are two cross braided buns suitable for short hair?

A: Absolutely! You can achieve this style with most hair lengths. For shorter hair, feed-in braiding hair or extensions can be used for added length and volume.

Q: How long do two cross braided buns last?

A: With proper care and nightly protection, this style can last up to two weeks. Touch up edges and moisturize your scalp regularly for best results.

Q: Can I wash my hair while it’s styled in braided buns?

A: Yes, you can gently cleanse your scalp with a diluted shampoo applicator bottle, followed by a light oil or leave-in spray. Avoid vigorous scrubbing to prevent frizz.

Q: How do I prevent my braids from becoming frizzy?

A: Sleep with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet every night. Avoid over-touching, and use a light mousse (like a foaming styling mousse) to smooth flyaways as needed.

Q: What products work best for laying edges?

A: Non-flaking, moisturizing edge controls are best. Popular options include Go Sleek Hair Edge Paste, Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers, and Hicks Total Transformations Gel.

The Best Products for Flawless Cross Braided Buns

Final Styling Tips From the Pros

• Don’t be afraid to experiment with parting shapes and colored add-ins. Seasonal color changes can refresh the whole vibe.
• Invest in quality edge control gels and scalp oils to keep the style polished and your hair healthy.
• Use fingers or a soft brush to define baby hairs for a sculpted finish without breakage.
• Refresh buns with mousse or hairspray to maintain their shape throughout wear.
• Take out your style after two weeks to detangle, cleanse, and give your natural hair a break before restyling.

Related Styles to Try

• French Braids with Mini Buns: For a more delicate and intricate look, try French braiding before sculpting smaller buns.
• Stitch Braids with Curls: Combine stitch-braided sections with curly ends or buns for volume and definition.
• Bantu Knots: Protective, chic, and full of personality for those who love a bolder statement.
• Loc Bow Styles: For loc’d hair, bows and buns are playful alternatives to standard updos.

Credits

Hair: Styled in collaboration with leading braiders and featured on Cosmopolitan’s acclaimed series “The Braid Up.”
Makeup: Ashley Johnson
Videography: Rob Mroczko
Production Assistant: Jay Aguirre
Director of Digital Series: Tara O’Connell

About the Author

Annabel Iwegbue is an associate editor at Cosmopolitan where she covers entertainment and lifestyle. Her insight into new style trends, especially protective styles, is shaped by an extensive background in beauty journalism and a genuine passion for helping readers feel empowered by their looks.