How to Achieve a Fun and Fabulous Twist-Out in 7 Easy Steps

By Mane Addicts

Finding the perfect hairstyle for natural strands can be a struggle. But if you want a look that will preserve your curls and is easy to achieve, look no further. Our friends at Mane Addicts break down the steps to achieve the perfect twist-out.

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Natural hair styles are endless, but there is one tried-and-true hairdo that will always be top choice — the twist-out. Hair twists are not only a great protective style, but they're also funky and fab. But what's 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 they have to happen to you! Check out our surefire guide on how to achieve a perfect twist-out every single time.

STEP ONE: 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 TWO: HYDRATE

Damp hair is easiest to work with, so grab a spray bottle and hydrate your curls with water.

STEP THREE: MOISTURIZE

Twist-outs thrive on moisture and a good hold. Moisturize your section of hair with leave-in conditioner, follow up with your favorite oil, and seal it all up with your favorite hair-curl-holding cream [Miss Jessie's Curly Meringue ($18) is amazing].

STEP FOUR: 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 FIVE: 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 cream 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 used for twist-outs. 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 reach 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 SIX: 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 SEVEN: UNTWIST (THE RIGHT WAY)

This final step can make or break your 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 a coil by twisting it in the opposite direction, split into two, and retwist each section back into its original direction. See tutorial here.
  • Two-strand twists: Get ready for beautiful zigzag 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.

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