Peekaboo braids have become one of the most popular braid styles in 2025 — loved for their hidden pop of color that appears only when you move your hair. The best part? You can create peekaboo braids at home with the right technique, tools, and braiding hair.

This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to do peekaboo braids, whether you prefer box braids, knotless braids, or curly-end styles.

---

✅ What Are Peekaboo Braids?

Peekaboo braids are regular braids with colored extensions added underneath the top layer of braids. When hair moves, the color “peeks” through — giving a bold or subtle look depending on the colors you choose.

You can choose:

• Bright neon colors
• Soft pastels
• Natural highlights (blonde, caramel, auburn)
• Multi-color combinations

---

🧰 What You Need (Full Checklist)

✔ Braiding hair extensions

Recommended brands:

• X-pression
• Outre
• Queen B
• EZ Braid (for beginners)

✔ Tools & Products

• Rat-tail comb
• Edge control or braiding gel
• Sectioning clips
• Rubber bands (optional)
• Shine n’ Jam or Style Factor
• Hair oil (jojoba, castor, argan)
• Mousse (for finishing)
• Hot water (for sealing ends)

---

🎨 Choosing Peekaboo Colors

Your peekaboo section will be on the lower back part of your head. Popular choices include:

Natural colors:

• Honey blonde
• Auburn
• Caramel
• Chestnut

Bold colors:

• Neon pink
• Sky blue
• Purple
• Fire red
• Lime green

Soft pastels:

• Lavender
• Baby pink
• Seafoam green

Pick a color that matches your personality or the vibe you want.

---

✂️ How to Do Peekaboo Braids (Step-by-Step)

Below is the full beginner-friendly tutorial.

---

Step 1: Wash, Detangle & Stretch Your Hair

Start with clean, detangled hair.

1. Shampoo and condition your hair
2. Blow-dry or stretch using heatless methods
3. Apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner
4. Oil your scalp lightly

This creates a smooth base for braiding.

---

Step 2: Section the Hair for Peekaboo Color

To create the peekaboo look:

✅ Only the bottom layer of your hair will have colored braids
✅ The top layers will use natural-colored extensions

How to section correctly:

• Part your hair horizontally from ear to ear
• Clip the top section away
• The bottom/back section is your peekaboo color area

This ensures the color stays hidden until you move your hair.

---

Step 3: Prep the Extensions

Separate and prep the braiding hair before you start:

• Feather the ends of the extensions
• Pre-mix colors if using multi-tone braids
• Lay them out in easy-to-reach bundles

This speeds up the whole process.

---

Step 4: Start Braiding the Peekaboo Section

Begin braiding the bottom section using your chosen color.

For box braids:

• Part small square sections
• Apply braiding gel
• Add extensions using the feed-in method
• Keep the tension even

For knotless braids:

• Start braiding your natural hair first
• Add hair gradually
• Knotless braids give a softer, more natural look

Continue braiding until the entire bottom section is completed.

---

Step 5: Braid the Top Section with Natural Color

Now braid the top of your head using natural-colored hair extensions.

This creates the signature peekaboo effect:

• Natural-colored braids hide the colored ones
• As you move or flip your hair, the color appears

Finish the top section completely before styling.

---

Step 6: Seal the Ends

After completing all braids:

• Dip the braid ends in hot water
• Trim flyaway hairs
• Apply mousse over all braids
• Tie a silk scarf to set the look

Your peekaboo braids will now look sleek and polished.

---

💡 Optional: Add Accessories

To enhance your peekaboo look:

• Hair rings
• Gold cords
• Beads
• Shells
• Clip-in charms

Accessories look especially good on the colored section.

---

🧴 How to Maintain Peekaboo Braids

To keep your braids fresh and lasting long:

✅ Oil your scalp 2–3 times weekly

Use light oils such as:

• Jojoba
• Tea tree
• Argan

✅ Wear a satin bonnet at night

Reduces frizz and keeps braids neat.

✅ Refresh edges every few days

Use gel sparingly to avoid buildup.

✅ Apply mousse weekly

Keeps braids soft and shiny.

✅ Moisturize braids with braid spray

Prevent dryness and breakage.

---

❓ How Long Do Peekaboo Braids Last?

Depending on the style:

• Knotless: 4–5 weeks
• Box braids: 5–7 weeks
• Boho/curly ends: 3–4 weeks

Proper maintenance can extend your style longer.

---

💰 How Much Do Peekaboo Braids Cost?

If done at a salon:

• Short braids: $80–$150
• Medium: $150–$250
• Long/waist length: $200–$400
• Boho styles: $200–$450

DIY peekaboo braids cost around $20–$40 for extensions.

---

✅ Final Thoughts

Peekaboo braids are a fun, stylish, and creative way to refresh your look in 2025. With a combination of hidden color, protective styling, and endless design options, this trend is perfect for anyone wanting something unique but wearable.

Whether you choose a bold neon shade or subtle caramel highlights, peekaboo braids are guaranteed to make you stand out.