10 Easy Steps to Create Perfect Hair Twists * bigfinish.com

There are countless ways to style natural hair, and one of the most versatile and stylish options is hair twists. Hair twists are a protective style that can be worn in a variety of ways, from casual to formal. They are also a great way to add length and volume to your hair. If you’re new to hair twists, don’t worry – they’re actually quite easy to do. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful hair twists in no time.

The first step is to prepare your hair. Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then detangling it thoroughly. Once your hair is clean and detangled, apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to help keep it moisturized and prevent breakage. Next, divide your hair into small sections. The size of the sections will depend on how thick you want your twists to be. Once your hair is sectioned, you can begin twisting. To twist your hair, simply take two strands of hair and wrap them around each other in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Continue twisting until you reach the ends of the hair, then secure the twist with a bobby pin or hair tie.

Once you have twisted all of your hair, you can style it as desired. You can wear your twists loose, pull them back into a ponytail, or even create an updo. Hair twists are a versatile style that can be worn in a variety of ways, so experiment until you find a look that you love. No matter how you choose to wear them, hair twists are a great way to add style and personality to your look.

Choosing the Right Hair Type and Texture

The first step to achieving stunning hair twists is choosing the right hair type and texture. Different hair types and textures respond differently to twisting, so it’s crucial to select the ones that will produce the desired results.

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Hair Length: Longer hair provides more length for twisting and creates more volume, while shorter hair can be more versatile and easier to manage.
Hair Thickness: Thicker hair produces larger twists that can be more dramatic and voluminous, while thinner hair creates more delicate, defined twists.
Hair Density: Hair density refers to the number of hair strands on the head. Higher hair density allows for tighter twists with more coverage, while lower hair density can create more space between twists.
Hair Texture: Different hair textures have varying levels of curl and coarseness. Curly or coily hair textures tend to create more defined twists, while straight or wavy textures create looser, more subtle twists.

To help you determine the most suitable hair type and texture for your desired twists, consult the following table:

Desired Twist Type	Ideal Hair Type and Texture
Large, voluminous twists	Thick, long hair with high hair density
Medium-sized, defined twists	Medium hair thickness with medium to high hair density
Small, delicate twists	Thin, short hair with low to medium hair density
Curly, voluminous twists	Curly or coily hair textures with high hair density
Loose, subtle twists	Straight or wavy hair textures with low to medium hair density

Sectioning the Hair Properly

Sectioning the hair is the foundation for creating even and well-defined twists. Follow these steps to section your hair properly:

Wet your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner to detangle and prevent breakage.
Using a wide-toothed comb, gently detangle your hair from the roots to the tips.

Dividing the Hair into Sections

The number of sections you create depends on the desired size of your twists. For small to medium-sized twists, divide your hair into 6-12 sections. For larger twists, create 4-6 sections.

To divide your hair into sections, part it down the center from the front of your hairline to the nape of your neck. Then, using your comb, create horizontal sections across the head, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Secure each section with a hair clip or elastic band.

Number of Sections	Twist Size
6-12	Small to Medium
4-6	Large

Creating the Twisted Sections

Once you have parted your hair and gathered your strands, follow these steps to create defined and beautiful twists:

1. Divide Each Section

Take a small portion of the gathered hair and divide it into two equal strands. These will form the foundation of your twist.

2. Cross Over

Take the right strand and cross it over the left strand, bringing it to the opposite side.

3. Twist and Repeat

Now comes the most crucial step, the actual twisting. Hold both strands securely and rotate them clockwise or counterclockwise until they are tightly twisted together. Continue twisting until you reach the end of the section, then repeat the process from the beginning to extend the twist and create length. Remember, consistency is key in achieving even and well-defined twists. The number of twists you make per section will determine the size and tightness of the overall style.

Here’s a detailed table summarizing the twisting process:

Step	Description
1	Divide the section into two equal strands.
2	Cross the right strand over the left.
3	Twist both strands clockwise or counterclockwise until tightly twisted and repeat to extend.

Locking the Twists

Once your twists are complete, you’ll need to lock them in place to prevent them from unraveling. Here’s how to do it:

Use a locking gel or wax. Apply a small amount of locking gel or wax to your fingertips and work it into the base of each twist. This will help to hold the twists together and prevent them from frizzing.
Use a hair dryer. Once you’ve applied the locking gel or wax, use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to dry the twists. This will help to seal in the product and keep the twists locked in place.
Use a twist clamp. You can also use a twist clamp to hold the twists in place while they’re drying. Simply clip the clamp onto the base of each twist and leave it in place for 30 minutes to an hour.
Let the twists air dry. If you don’t want to use any products or tools, you can simply let the twists air dry. This will take longer, but it will give you the most natural-looking results.

Tips for locking twists:

Use a locking gel or wax that is specifically designed for natural hair.
Apply the locking gel or wax sparingly, as too much can weigh the hair down and make it look greasy.
Use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to avoid damaging the hair.
Let the twists dry completely before manipulating them, as wet twists are more likely to unravel.
If you’re using a twist clamp, make sure to remove it once the twists are dry to avoid breakage.

Preventing Frizz and Flyaways

Taming frizz and flyaways is crucial for achieving polished hair twists. Here are 5 effective strategies to minimize these issues:

1. Use Moisturizing Products

Opt for hair products formulated with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil. These ingredients help seal moisture into the hair shaft, reducing dryness and frizz.

2. Apply Anti-Frizz Serum

Anti-frizz serums contain silicones or polymers that create a protective layer on the hair, repelling moisture and controlling flyaways. Look for serums that are lightweight and won’t weigh down your twists.

3. Avoid Over-Washing

Excessive washing strips the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Aim to wash your hair no more than twice a week, using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.

4. Blot Dry with a Microfiber Towel

After washing, gently blot your hair dry with a microfiber towel. Avoid rubbing or twisting, as this can create friction and damage the hair cuticles, resulting in frizz.

5. Protect from Heat and Humidity

Heat styling and high humidity can exacerbate frizz. To protect your twists:

Use a diffuser or apply a heat protectant spray before blow-drying.
Avoid excessive heat when using straightening or curling irons.
Cover your hair with a satin bonnet or scarf when sleeping.

Maintaining Your Twists

Moisturizing and Sealing

Regularly moisturize your twists with a water-based leave-in conditioner, oil, or cream. Seal the moisture in with an oil or butter to prevent dryness and breakage.

Re-twisting

As new growth appears, re-twist the roots weekly or bi-weekly to keep them neat and prevent unraveling. Use a small amount of styling product to make the process smoother.

Washing

Wash your twists every 1-2 weeks with a sulfate-free shampoo and a deep conditioner. Gently massage the shampoo into the scalp and rinse thoroughly. Apply a deep conditioner and leave it in for 15-20 minutes before rinsing.

Protective Styling

Wear a satin or silk scarf or bonnet at night to protect your twists from friction and minimize breakage. Consider using a sleep cap or pillowcase made of these materials as well.

Trimming

Trim any split ends or damaged hair regularly to keep your twists healthy and prevent further breakage. Trim small sections at a time to maintain the length of your twists.

Daily Care

Morning	Evening
– Finger-detangle any loose hairs – Moisturize lightly with a leave-in conditioner or oil	– Re-twist any sections that have loosened – Seal with an oil or butter

Styling Options for Hair Twists

Classic Two-Strand Twists

This fundamental style involves dividing hair into two sections and twisting them together, creating a polished, defined look.

Chunky Twists

These twists are created with larger sections of hair, resulting in a bold and voluminous style.

Micro Twists

In contrast to chunky twists, micro twists are made with very small sections of hair, creating a delicate and intricate look that can last for weeks.

Rope Twists

This style involves twisting two strands of hair together and then folding them over each other, resulting in a textured and dynamic look.

Flat Twists

Unlike traditional twists, flat twists are created by bringing the outer strands underneath the center strand, creating a flattened and elegant effect.

Two-Strand Twist Updo

Elevate your twists by gathering them into an elegant updo, such as a high bun, ponytail, or half updo.

Twist Out

After removing twists, you can create a twist out by allowing the hair to dry naturally. This results in defined curls or waves, providing a refreshingly different look.

Twist Type	Description	Effect
Classic Two-Strand Twists	Dividing hair into two sections and twisting them together	Polished, defined
Chunky Twists	Creating twists with larger hair sections	Bold, voluminous
Micro Twists	Twisting very small sections of hair	Delicate, intricate, lasting
Rope Twists	Twisting two strands and folding them over	Textured, dynamic
Flat Twists	Bringing outer strands underneath center strand	Flattened, elegant
Two-Strand Twist Updo	Gathering twists into an updo	Elegant, elevated
Twist Out	Removing twists and allowing hair to dry naturally	Defined curls or waves, refreshing

Avoiding Damage to Twists

1. Use the Right Products

Opt for sulfate-free and moisturizing shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for natural hair. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip away natural oils.

2. Gentle Detangling

Always detangle wet hair with a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, avoiding excessive brushing.

3. Limit Heat Styling

Excessive heat exposure can damage and weaken twists. Air dry your hair whenever possible. If using a blow dryer, set it on low heat and use a heat protectant spray.

4. Moisturize Regularly

Apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner or serum to your twists daily to keep them hydrated. Use a sealing oil, such as coconut oil or argan oil, once or twice a week to lock in moisture.

5. Sleep with Protection

Protect your twists from friction by covering them with a silk or satin bonnet or scarf at night. This reduces tangling and breakage.

6. Re-Twist Regularly

Re-twist your twists every 2-4 weeks to maintain their shape and prevent unravelling. Use a light hand and avoid over-twisting.

7. Avoid Tight Styling

Tightly twisted hair is more prone to breakage and damage. Opt for loose, comfortable twists that allow for scalp movement.

8. Protect from Environmental Factors

Sun Exposure: Cover your twists with a scarf or hat when exposed to direct sunlight. UV rays can fade hair color and weaken the hair shaft.

Wind: High winds can tangle and break twists. Tie up your twists or secure them with a hair clip in windy conditions.

Chlorine: Chlorine in swimming pools can dry out and damage hair. Rinse your twists with fresh water thoroughly after swimming.

Environmental Factor	Protection Method
Sun Exposure	Scarf or hat
Wind	Tied or clipped
Chlorine	Rinse with fresh water

Troubleshooting Common Twisting Issues

Problem: Twists are too loose.

Possible Cause: Not twisting sections tightly enough.

Solution: Ensure you’re twisting the hair strands firmly and evenly throughout the entire length.

Problem: Twists are too long or too short.

Possible Cause: Incorrect section size for the desired twist length.

Solution: Adjust the section size accordingly. Smaller sections will create shorter twists, while larger sections will lead to longer twists.

Problem: Twists are uneven.

Possible Cause: Inconsistent twisting technique or uneven hair thickness.

Solution: Practice maintaining a consistent tension and technique. Consider using a product to smooth and lubricate the hair for even twists.

Problem: Twists are dry or frizzy.

Possible Cause: Lack of moisture or hydration.

Solution: Use a moisturizing cream or leave-in conditioner to provide moisture and reduce frizz.

Problem: Twists become tangled easily.

Possible Cause: Poor sealing of the twist ends or excessive tangling of the hair strands.

Solution: Seal the ends properly by using a sealing product or hot water dipping. Avoid brushing or combing twists too often.

Problem: Twists have a buildup of products.

Possible Cause: Overuse of styling products or insufficient cleansing.

Solution: Avoid using excessive products. Deep cleanse your twists regularly to remove buildup.

Problem: Twists are breaking.

Possible Cause: Dry or damaged hair, excessive tension, or improper detangling.

Solution: Keep hair moisturized and detangle gently. Adjust the twisting tension to avoid breakage.

Problem: Twists are too stiff.

Possible Cause: Use of heavy products or twisting the hair while it’s dry.

Solution: Avoid using heavy styling products. Moisturize the hair thoroughly before twisting.

Problem: Twists have an unpleasant odor.

Possible Cause: Bacterial growth due to moisture buildup or lack of proper scalp cleansing.

Solution: Ensure the scalp is clean and free of product buildup. Use an appropriate shampoo or scalp treatment to eliminate odor.

Achieving Professional-Looking Twists at Home

1. Prep Your Hair

Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Towel dry and apply a leave-in conditioner to keep hair hydrated and prevent breakage.

2. Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into small sections, about 1-2 inches wide. Secure each section with a hair tie or clip to keep them separated.

3. Start Twisting

Take two strands from the same section and twist them together clockwise. Hold the ends and twist in the opposite direction, counterclockwise.

4. Keep It Tight

Use your thumb and forefinger to hold the base of the twist and pull downward to create tension and prevent unraveling.

5. Roll Downward

While maintaining tension, roll the twist down towards the ends of the sections.

6. Repeat and Secure

Repeat the twisting process on all the sections. Once twisted, secure the ends with an elastic band or by tucking them under.

7. Protect Your Twists

Protect your twists from frizz and breakage by wrapping a satin scarf or using a bonnet while sleeping.

8. Moisturize Regularly

Rehydrate your twists by applying a moisturizer or hair oil every few days to prevent dryness and maintain shine.

9. Do a Hot Towel Treatment

For a deep moisturizing treatment, wrap a hot towel around your twists for 15-20 minutes. The heat helps open the hair cuticles and absorb the moisturizer.

10. Style as Desired

Once your twists are dry and set, you can style them as you wish. You can leave them loose, put them in a bun, or create intricate updos.

How To Do Hair Twists

Hair twists are a versatile and stylish way to wear your hair. They can be worn up or down, and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Hair twists are also a great way to protect your hair from damage, and can help to promote hair growth.

To do hair twists, you will need:

A comb or brush
A hair clip or elastic band
A small amount of styling product (optional)

Instructions:

Start by combing or brushing your hair to remove any tangles or knots.
If desired, apply a small amount of styling product to your hair. This will help to keep your twists in place and prevent them from frizzing.
Section off a small section of hair at the front of your head.
Divide the section of hair into two equal strands.
Cross the right strand over the left strand and pull it through to the left side.
Cross the left strand over the right strand and pull it through to the right side.
Continue crossing the strands over each other until you reach the end of the section of hair.
Secure the twist at the end with a hair clip or elastic band.
Repeat steps 3-8 until you have twisted all of your hair.