The Ins and Outs of Two Strand Twist

The good news is that one of the hottest natural Black hair styles of the past few years is also one of the most versatile, easiest to create and maintain, and healthiest for your hair. The bad news is - wait, there is no bad news! Two-strand twists are wildly popular right now, and rightly so. This beautiful style requires no locking-up period or cutting out, and takes a minimum toll on your own locks, encouraging growth and health.

What Are Two-Strand Twists for Natural Hair?

Two-strand twists are a common and flexible way to style natural hair. Two pieces of hair are twisted around each other to make a pattern that looks like rope. Two-strand twists are a protective hairdo that keeps hair moist, keeps it from getting messed up, and helps hair grow. People who naturally have wavy or natural hair often choose this style. The size and method of creating two-strand twists can be adjusted based on personal choice, allowing for a variety of options when sectioning hair. It's easy to take care of and lets your natural curls or waves shine through. The final look of two-strand twists can also be customized according to individual preference, such as choosing the twist size or adding accessories. Yet how are they created, and what are the best ways to rock them? Read on to find out!

Pre-Twisting Preparation

Before you dive into creating your two strand twists, a little prep work goes a long way in achieving a flawless hairstyle. Start by gently detangling your natural hair with a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush, working from the ends upward. This step helps prevent knots and breakage, making the twisting process smoother and helping you maintain the health of your hair. Once your hair is tangle-free, apply a nourishing leave-in conditioner or a lightweight hair serum to lock in moisture and add definition to each strand twist. For extra manageability and hold, you can also work in a bit of hair cream or styling product. Taking the time to properly detangle and prep your hair ensures your two strand twists will look neat, last longer, and keep your natural hair in top condition.

How to Create Two-Strand Twists: Tools and Techniques

The name pretty much says it all. Double strand twists are made of two strands of hair crisscrossed or twisted together. The hand motion is similar to turning double-dutch or braiding hair with two sections instead of three; simply loop strands over each other over and over until you reach the ends of the hair. Using the right tools, such as combs, clips, or styling products, is important to achieve neat and even twists. Twists can then be rolled on foam or paper rollers or plastic rods to add body and/or curl.

It's not always that simple, though. Here are some additional tips for great twists:

• Section your hair into smaller sections for a more natural, versatile look, especially if your hair is short. Smaller twists can be swept into ponytails, updos, and other styles more easily than larger ones.
• Create a random pattern of partings for a more natural look. Real hair does not necessarily grow or fall in evenly-spaced rows of square boxes. Vary the size and shape of each twist to fit the length, texture, and thickness of the hair; the resulting twists will fall in a more natural hair pattern.
• Start with damp or semi-dry locks to get the most out of the style. For naturally coily Type 3c or Type 4 hair, this will keep your twists from shrinking up, retaining a little length in your locks. For curlier or relaxed lengths, this trick will add body, movement, and that bit of extra texture needed to make the look work. In either case, start twisting sections at the nape of the neck when your hair is about 50% dry; by the time you work to the front of the head, you should have enough moisture left to set the hair on rollers and still get some effect. If not, mist hair with water from a spray bottle to keep hair from drying out completely. Note: Avoid twisting too tightly to prevent scalp tension or discomfort.
• Use a leave-in conditioner to help boost shine and keep hair in tip-top shape. Thickening conditioners containing ingredients like balsam can help beef up thin locks.
• Twist hair the same way from root to tip. A lot of women are tempted to simply start "rolling" the ends of their twists instead of properly twisting them. This incorrect motion, similar to the method used for Bantu knots, may seal the twist closed, but it also makes it hard to untwist the hair, leading to tangles and breakage. Keep crisscrossing hair all the way to the end, and you will be able to easily reverse the motion when it comes time to take the twists down. Proper technique also makes unraveling the twists easier and helps prevent damage when removing them.

Securing the Twist

Once you've completed each strand twist, it's important to secure the ends so your style stays intact and doesn't unravel. For a simple and effective hold, use a small elastic band or a bobby pin at the end of each twist. If you prefer a more seamless look, try tucking the end of the twist under itself and gently pressing it into place. This not only keeps your twists neat but also helps maintain the style for a longer period. For those who love to accessorize, adding beads, shells, or other hair accessories can give your two strand twists a unique flair while also helping to secure the ends. Just remember to avoid pulling too tightly - gentle securing is key to preventing breakage and keeping your hair healthy. With the right finishing touch, your twists will stay put and look stylish all day long.

Drying and Setting

After you've finished twisting, how you dry and set your hair can make all the difference in the final look and longevity of your two strand twists. Letting your hair air dry is the gentlest option, preserving your natural texture and minimizing heat damage. If you're short on time, a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer set to low heat can help speed up the process without compromising your hair's health. Once your hair is completely dry, apply a setting lotion or a light hair gel to help define each twist and keep them in place. For extra absorption, gently blot your twists with a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt - this helps remove excess moisture without causing frizz. With the right drying and setting routine, you'll achieve a defined, long-lasting two strand twist style that's easy to maintain.

Maintaining Two Strand Twists

Keeping your two strand twists looking fresh is all about regular, gentle care. Moisturize your hair often with a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight hair serum to prevent dryness and keep your twists defined. Incorporate a weekly deep conditioning treatment or hair mask to nourish your natural hair and support healthy growth. Avoid heavy products that can weigh down your twists or cause buildup, and steer clear of excessive heat styling to preserve your hair's natural texture. Instead, opt for gentle, protective styling and lightweight products that help maintain the longevity of your twists. With a consistent routine, your two strand twists will stay vibrant, healthy, and beautiful for weeks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the most out of your two strand twists, it's important to steer clear of a few common pitfalls. Twisting your hair too tightly can cause unnecessary tension on your scalp and lead to breakage, so always twist gently. Skipping the detangling step before you start can result in knots and tangles that make the process harder and can damage your hair. Using too much product or relying on heavy gels can weigh down your twists and affect their definition, while excessive heat styling can alter your hair's natural pattern. To achieve the best results, take your time to detangle, use lightweight products, and twist with care. If you're new to this style, don't hesitate to learn from online tutorials or consult a professional stylist for guidance. By avoiding these mistakes, you'll enjoy a neat, healthy, and long-lasting two strand twist hairstyle.

Styling Cues and Ways to Style Two-Strand Twists

One of the best things about two-strand twists is that they can be styled into almost any other coif achieved with straight hair - all it takes is a little planning and imagination!

• Pull long twists (natural or created with extensions) back into a bun, chignon, ponytail, updo, or partial updo. Adorn with beads or shells for a distinctly African flavor, or add mini flowers for a wedding or art gallery opening.
• Pair two-strand twists with cornrows or flat twists to create a modern Mohawk, asymmetrical or inverted bob, French roll, victory roll, fishtail, or other sleek-and-sassy style. Flat twists in the front of the head can also help cut down on styling time and give a youthful vibe.
• Set large sections of twisted hair on flexi-rods for a spiral set, or simply unleash the twists for the curly results of a twist-out. (Make sure to use a styling lotion or pomade to control those locks as you release them.)

And that's it! A simple, wearable style that can be dressed up a million ways - who could ask for anything more?

Add Length and Volume to Your Two-Strand Twists

Want longer or fuller twists? You don't have to wait for your natural hair to grow. Our kinky curly clip-in extensions and textured clip-ins blend seamlessly with natural hair patterns, giving you the length and volume you need for stunning two-strand twists. For braiding and twisting styles, our bulk braiding hair offers the perfect foundation for protective styles that last.