If you find yourself itching to experiment with a new hair color but don’t want to damage your natural curls or coils, it’s time to put peekaboo braids on your radar. This playful hairstyle for natural hair involves weaving colorful strands into box braids—typically in a spot where they can be hidden—for an unexpected pop of color. Whether you’re looking to try on a platinum blonde hue or dip your toe into fantasy color with a vibrant pastel or neon shade, the possibilities are practically endless. Ahead, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about peekaboo braids and explain how to get the look at home in six simple, easy-to-follow steps.
What Are Peekaboo Braids?
Peekaboo braids are a protective hairstyle in which colorful extensions are added to knotless braids, typically beneath the top section of hair. These hidden sections "peek" out from underneath the top layer of braids to create an unexpected pop of color. The beauty of peekaboo braids is that they allow you to embrace a new hue without having to rely on bleach or permanent hair dye. As such, they’re a great option for those who like to change up their look but don’t want to sit through a lengthy (or pricey) salon appointment to achieve a standout hair transformation.
Good hair day by @gifted_gigislay.
How To Get Peekaboo Braids
Achieving stellar peekaboo braids may seem daunting, but mastering this look is easier than it seems. Getting the right tools and having an overall vision for how you want your peekaboo to show is essential. Below, we’ve outlined some basic steps to achieving this eye-catching style.
1. Gather your supplies
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary supplies:
- Colorful hair extensions: You can choose any color extensions you like, from subtle shades like cherry cola to neon hues such as vibrant green. If you’re not sure how many extensions you’ll need (or what length to buy), consult with a stylist.
- A rat-tail comb: This is essential for precise sectioning.
- Hair clips: You’ll need strong-hold, soft-touch grip clips to keep your hair out of the way as you braid each section. We like the Redken Alligator Hair Clips.
- Edge control gel: For strong hold without stiffness or crunch, nab the Matrix Styling Control Gel.
- Clear elastics: Depending on your hair texture, you may need elastics to secure your braids. Opt for clear elastics that’ll blend in with your hair for a seamless look.
- Spray bottle with water: Consider this to be essential to any braid work you have planned—it’s far easier to work with damp hair than dry hair.
2. Section your hair
Divide your hair into sections using the rat-tail comb. The number of sections you create is up to you. More sections will yield thin micro braids, while fewer sections will leave you with thicker, chunkier plaits.
Next, determine where on your head you would like to place your peekaboo braids. You can use your hair clips to hold back larger sections of hair as you get ready to braid.
3. Add extensions
Using the feed-in method, attach the colored hair extensions to the first section of hair you plan to braid. Begin braiding as normal, adding in small strands of your colorful extensions as you go to create a seamless blend between your natural hair and the extensions. Once the extensions are fully integrated into the section, braid your hair until you reach the ends, then secure it with an elastic band, if needed.
4. Repeat the process
Repeat the feed-in process for the entire section where you’d like your peekaboo braids to be. Once you’re finished with those, you can go ahead and braid the rest of your hair as normal. If your hair begins to dry out, lightly mist your strands with water—as mentioned, it’s typically a bit easier to braid damp hair than bone-dry hair.
5. Style your edges
After you’ve completed braiding your hair, use your edge control gel to smooth down your edges and tame any frizz or flyaways along your hairline. Depending on your hair texture, lifestyle, and routine, you can expect your braids to last anywhere from a couple of weeks to two months or more.
10 Peekaboo Braid Looks To Try
There are countless ways to rock peekaboo braids, allowing you to tailor this hairstyle to suit your personal style and preferences. Here are some enviable looks that will inspire you to book your next salon visit—or put in an order for extensions—ASAP.
Pink Peekaboo Braids
Add a playful touch to your peekaboo braids by opting for pink extensions. Rose gold makes for a more subtle look, while neon pink is a great choice for those looking to stand out with a vibrant hue.
Peekaboo Braids with Curly Ends
Add even more interest to your peekaboo braided look by securing your braid a few inches above the ends. Then, curl the ends of the extensions with a thin curling iron to add texture, bounce, and volume to your plaited look.
Good hair day by @braidsbysohadd.
Red Peekaboo Braids
Make a fiery statement with red peekaboo braids in a vibrant shade of crimson that adds an element of drama to your look.
Blue Peekaboo Knotless Braids
Opt for blue peekaboo knotless braids for a sleek and modern take on this trend. Knotless braids create less tension on the scalp than knotted braids, making them an ideal choice for those with sensitive scalps.
Green Peekaboo Box Braids
Weave forest green extensions throughout your lengths to create a colorful peekaboo box braid look that feels chic and elegant.
Peekaboo Braids with Beads
Slip colorful beads over the ends of your peekaboo braids to show off your unique sense of style. We love the way gold beads make any look feel chic and elegant but feel free to experiment with different bead colors, sizes, and even shapes.
Good hair day by @shanayawilliamss.
Blonde Peekaboo Braids
For a sun-kissed look, try blonde peekaboo braids. The lighter braids woven throughout your natural tresses will help brighten up your mane without the need for a lengthy (and damaging) bleaching session.
Rainbow Peekaboo Braids
Why settle for one color when you can have them all? Rainbow peekaboo braids are made for those who love experimenting with different shades. Try this vibrant look for a music festival or special occasion when you want to stand out.
Silver Peekaboo Braids
Swap out your standard colorful extensions for bright silver extensions (or even hair tinsel). The metallic hue will pop against your features, making for a glam look that’ll capture attention in the very best way.
Black and White Peekaboo Braids
If your hair is naturally dark, add some contrast by weaving white extensions throughout your braids. You’ll be left with a cool two-toned effect that feels very fresh and modern.
Next Up: How To Do Two-Strand Twists On Natural Hair In 6 Easy Steps
Header photo credit: @gifted_gigislay
Use our salon locator to try peekaboo braids with a pro near you. In the meantime, you can take our Hair Quiz for immediate expert advice.
