Natural hairstyles are endless but there is one tried and true hairdo that will always be the top choice—the perfect twist-out. Hair twists are not only a great protective style, but they’re also funky and fab. What’s even more fab about this low-maintenance hairdo are the glorious spiral curls you get once you unravel the twists.
Twist-outs are fun and beautiful, but they don’t always come out the way we want them to. Common twist-out problems include frizz and lack of curl definition. Now don’t get it twisted, just because these issues are common does not mean it has to happen to you! Check out our surefire guide on how to achieve a perfect twist-out every single time.
Step 1: Section Your Hair
Every good hairstyle begins with intention and diligence. Section your hair into quarters or layers and clip into tiny buns, leaving out only the section you are working on. Sectioning helps keep excess hair out of the way while twisting.
Step 2: Hydrate
Damp hair is easiest to work with, so grab a spray bottle and hydrate your curls with water.
Step 3: Moisturize
Twist-outs thrive on moisture and a good hold. Moisturize your section of hair with a leave-in conditioner, follow up with your favorite oil, and seal it all up with your favorite hair curl holding creme.
Step 4: Detangle
To ensure smooth and shiny curls, you have to detangle your mane. Using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, take down those knots in the active section of hair.
Step 5: Twist
Now that your hair is moisturized and knot-free, decide how big or small you want your twists to be and grab a mini section of hair to twist. Dab some curl holding creme or gel to the mini section and brush through with your detangling brush for perfect curl definition. When working the perimeters of your head, be sure to include your edges into your twists. There is more than just one way to achieve a beautiful twist-out. Check out some style options below:
- Single-strand twists (or finger coils): The more time-consuming option, this look requires a lot of gel and works best when done as small twists. Starting from the root, simply twist your hair in either an inward or outward direction until you form a coil.
- Two-strand twists: This is the most common twist. Grab a mini section of hair to twist and separate it into two strands to work with. Stretch the hair out and begin to twist the hair over and under until you’ve reached the ends. Using a dab of gel, twirl the ends into a curl with your finger.
- Flat twists: If you want serious curl definition from the root up, go for a flat twist. A flat twist is pretty much a two-strand cornrow. Section a row of hair, separate the top of the row into two strands and begin twisting over and under, collecting more hair into the two strands while maintaining the twist flat on the scalp.
Step 6: Dry and Maintain
If a twist is too damp, whether with product or water, the curl will not set. Enjoy your twisted ‘do and give your hair time to air dry. At nighttime, wrap your hair with a silk or satin scarf to help keep your strands smooth and moisturized.
Step 7: Untwist the Right Way
This final step can make or break your perfect twist-out if not done correctly. Oil your fingertips with your favorite oil and begin unraveling your twists. See how to untwist the different styles below:
- Single-strand twists (or finger coils): Hello, luscious curls! Finger coils can result in glamorous and shiny curly locks when untwisted with patience. Unravel coil by twisting it in opposite direction, split into two, and re-twist each section back into original direction.
- Two-strand twists: Get ready for beautiful zig-zag curls. Gently smooth or spray a light oil over your twists. Carefully untwist, starting from the bottom. Depending on how full you want your hairdo, use your fingers to separate (or fluff out) your curly strands into thinner curly strands. Be sure to keep your fingertips oiled to prevent frizz. For extra volume, you can take a wide-tooth comb and pick your roots.
- Flat-twist: Flat-twists will give you curls and stretch. Just like you would untwist a two-strand twist, start untwisting your flat-twist from the bottom.