Twisting short natural hair can be a great way to style and manage it while also promoting healthy hair growth. It offers a variety of looks and can be customized to suit your personal style. Whether you’re aiming for a simple, everyday look or something more elaborate for a special occasion, the process can be straightforward with the right techniques.
Preparing the Hair
Washing and Conditioning
Start with a gentle cleanse using a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates can strip the natural oils from the hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Look for shampoos that are formulated for natural hair and are rich in moisturizing ingredients.
After shampooing, apply a deep conditioning treatment. You can use a store-bought conditioner or make a natural one at home with ingredients like avocado, coconut oil, and honey. Leave the conditioner on for at least 15 – 20 minutes to allow the hair to absorb the moisture.
Rinse the conditioner out thoroughly with lukewarm water. Cold water can help seal the cuticles, adding shine and smoothness to the hair.
Detangling
Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to carefully remove any knots and tangles. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots. This helps prevent breakage.
If the hair is very tangled, you can apply a small amount of a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray to make the process easier. Gently work through the hair in small sections until it is completely smooth.
Sectioning
Divide the hair into small, manageable sections. The size of the sections will depend on the length and thickness of your hair and the size of the twists you want. For shorter hair, smaller sections may be more appropriate. You can use clips to hold the sections apart as you work.
The Twisting Process
Two-Strand Twists
Take a small section of hair.
Divide it into two equal parts.
Hold one part in each hand.
Twist the two parts around each other in the same direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise. As you twist, keep the tension even to ensure a smooth and consistent twist.
Continue twisting down the length of the hair until you reach the ends.
You can either leave the ends free or tuck them under to create a neater look. Secure the end with a small rubber band or a hairpin if needed.
Three-Strand Twists
Select a small section of hair.
Divide it into three equal parts.
Hold the left part in your left hand, the right part in your right hand, and the middle part in between.
Cross the right strand over the middle strand.
Then, cross the left strand over the new middle strand (which was previously the right strand).
Continue this process, alternating the sides as you twist down the hair. Keep the tension consistent to create a tight and even twist.
When you reach the ends, secure them as you did with the two-strand twists.
Adding Products
You can apply a small amount of a natural hair oil or a twist cream to the hair before twisting. This helps to moisturize the hair, reduce frizz, and add shine. Make sure to distribute the product evenly throughout the section of hair.
For added hold and definition, you can also use a light-hold gel. However, be careful not to use too much as it can make the hair look stiff or crunchy.
Styling and Finishing
Shaping the Twists
Once all the twists are done, you can shape them as desired. You can pull them back, to the side, or leave them loose around the face. Use bobby pins or small hair clips to hold the twists in place if needed.
If you want a more voluminous look, you can gently tug on the twists to loosen them slightly. This creates a fuller appearance.
Drying
Allow the twists to air dry naturally if possible. This helps to preserve the shape and reduces heat damage. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting with a hairdryer. Hold the diffuser close to the twists and move it around gently to dry the hair evenly.
Avoid using high heat as it can cause the hair to dry out and become brittle, and it may also disrupt the shape of the twists.
Maintaining the Twists
To make the twists last longer, sleep with a silk or satin scarf or a silk pillowcase. This reduces friction and helps prevent the twists from unraveling or getting frizzy.
You can also spritz a little water on the twists in the morning if they start to look dry. Then, apply a small amount of oil or twist cream to refresh the look and moisturize the hair.
Conclusion
In conclusion, doing twists on short natural hair is a fun and creative way to style your hair while taking care of it. By following these steps and using the right products and techniques, you can achieve beautiful, well-defined twists that not only look great but also contribute to the health and growth of your natural hair. Experiment with different sizes and styles of twists to find the look that suits you best, and enjoy the versatility and charm that this hairstyle has to offer. Whether you’re going to work, school, or a special event, twists on short natural hair can be a great choice to express your personal style and keep your hair looking its best.