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When it comes to protective styles, the less maintenance the better. Time is the biggest barrier to proper hair care, so the easier to manage the style the more likely we are to keep up with it. Luckily, our default toward the path of least resistance translates perfectly to protective styles, where less manipulation equates to healthier hair. In this sense, two-strand twists are one of the most approachable styles for even the most novice amongst us. Plus, they help lock in moisture and can easily be combined with other styles, such asbraids, buns, and afros.
If you've ever tried to two-strand twist and ended up saying to yourself I don't think this is for me, we want you to consider giving twists one more try. We asked stylists Larry Sims, Ebony Bomani, and Sarah Sango to give us their expert-approved guide on two-strand twists, from the benefits of the protective style to how to maintain twist styles on natural hair. Plus, we show you to master the style on your own.
Meet the Expert
- Larry Sims is a celebrity stylist and master hair educator who works with Gabrielle Union, Danai Guirra, Kerry Washington, and Alicia Keys. Sims is also the co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union.
- Ebony Bomaniis a hairstylist and master cosmetologist.
- Sarah Sangois an expert in natural and Afro-textured hair and an in-house stylist for Lush.
What Are Two-Strand Twists?
Twists, also widely referred to as two-strand twists, are a hairstyle created by twisting two sections of hair around one another to the ends. Sections of hair may range from large to small.
The Benefits of Two-Strand Twists
"Two-strand twists are one of my favorite styles for naturals," says Sims. "They're lightweight, [add] no tension on the hair, [and] require zero heat." Bomani agrees: "[Two-strand twists] help the hair hold on to moisture longer and keep it tangle-free. Low-maintenance hairstyles allow the hair to rest, as there's less manipulation. Less manipulation, coupled with better moisture retention, causes hair to break less."
With all of those benefits, we can see why two-strand twists receive high marks from hair experts and naturals alike. Two-strand twists are a great protective style because you can leave them in for days or weeks. You can also cleanse and condition your hair while in twists if you want to wear them for a while. Not to mention, twists also work well in combination with other natural styles. You can flat twist the front of your hair to the crown and leave the remaining lengths in two-strand twists. You might also get creative by fashioning the same set of twists into an updo, one big braid or ponytail, or a simple bun. There are a variety of styling possibilities you can attempt with this one hairdo. Plus, when you're tired of leaving your hair twisted, unravel them and you have yet another hairstyle: the twist-out.
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How to Two-Strand Twist
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Wash and Detangle Your Hair
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Starting any style with a clean, hydrated base is essential. "When prepping for two-strand twists, it's imperative that the hair is hydrated and thoroughly detangled to avoid possible matting and breakage in the future," says Bomani.
Wash your hair with a hydrating shampoo and follow with a deep conditioning treatment. Once your hair is cleansed and conditioned, towel dry with a microfiber towel. Sims recommends applying a leave-in, then layering a cream or oil (or both) to keep the moisture locked in. Then you can start detangling your hair in sections, working your way from the bottom to the root.
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Select Your Twist Size and Add Curl Cream
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First, decide how big you want your twists to be; the smaller the twist, the more definition if and when you take the style out. After landing on a twist size, take that section of the hair and add curl cream. Until you find tried-and-true favorites, you may have to experiment with different products to get the final look and hold you want in this style.
Byrdie Tip
A good degree of hold helps twists keep their shape without unraveling or frizzing up too soon, but steer clear of tacky, heavy gels.
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Divide Your Twisting Section
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Take your twisting section and divide it in two. One of the most important things to remember when creating your twists is to begin with two sections that are even. If one section is thicker and/or longer than the other, you won't be able to create a uniform twist down the entire length of that section. You'll have to "borrow" from the other section, leading to an uneven twist.
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Continue to the Ends
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Twist each piece over the other, moving all the way down. Be sure to twist the hair away from the face.
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The Final Look
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Adding extensions isn't a requirement when creating twists, but if you want a longer-lasting, fuller style adding synthetic hair is your best bet—affording you the option to create twisted styles like Senegalese orMarley twists. You can also add in colored extension hair if you want to create a different look than your usual go-to.
Aftercare
Make sure to sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to try to help preserve your twists at night. If your twists begin to feel dry, Sango says to reawaken the existing products in the hair by spritzing each twist with a bit of water. "If you feel that your hair needs more product, add accordingly."
The Final Takeaway
Although it's a simple hairstyle to create, not everyone gets it perfect the first (or fifth) time. You may need to practice more, paying special attention to the size of each section you're twisting; your results will be more uniform if you make sure each section is even. You may need to experiment with products to find the best ones for you. Either way, you'll eventually master the twist-out of your dreams.
FAQ
Do two-strand twists turn into dreads?
Yes, two-strand twists are a popular starting point for transitioning into more mature locs.
How long do two-strand twists last?
Two-strand twists can be left in for up to several weeks as long as they are cleansed and conditioned properly. Most stylists do not recommend keeping hair in a protective style for over eight weeks.
How much should two-strand twists cost?
If going to a professional, the cost of two-strand twists will vary depending on the length and condition of the hair, the size of the twists, and the location or experience level of the stylist. Prices can range from around $100 and up, with additional materials like extensions adding to the cost.
