How To: Twist Out (Natural Hairstyle)

By: Ebony Clark aka Eclark6

Eclark6 fabulous Instagram Naturalista shares her hair regimen and tips for her signature natural hairstyle, the two strand twist out. Video Tutorial at the End

Achieving the best Twist Out starts with hair that’s freshly cleansed, intensely conditioned, and moisturized. Although my regimen varies, I generally shampoo my hair every two weeks and co-wash once or twice a week. Currently, I’m using Godiva shampoo bar by LUSH, Trader Joe’s Nourish Spa conditioner, Giovanni’s Direct Leave-In or Cantu Shea Butter leave-in (both used as moisturizers), coconut oil, and castor oil.

Here are a few steps to achieving an awesome twist out.

Step 1: I begin by pre-pooing with coconut oil and finger detangling. Prior to shampooing, lightly mist hair with water to make it easier to manipulate. Divide hair into about 5-6 sections (more if your hair is shorter) and clip. One by one, massage a sufficient amount of extra virgin coconut oil into the scalp and gently work it down the hair shaft. Coconut oil lifts dirt, nourishes, and helps minimize moisture loss when shampooing. Briefly detangle with fingers, remove shed hairs, and twist each section. Cover with a plastic cap and wrap with a towel or satin scarf for about 45 minutes to an hour.

Step 2: Shampoo

Without unraveling the twists rinse hair well and shampoo once (unless more is needed), mainly concentrating on the scalp. Blot hair with a t-shirt or microfiber towel, then apply conditioner. Gently squeeze it into each twist, cover, and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Preferably, in the shower, individually unravel twists and detangle under running water with a wide toothed comb. Follow up with a denman brush or tangle teezer for smoother results, and re-twist each section before moving on to the next one. Make sure hair is rinsed thoroughly.

Step 3: Lightly blot hair with a t-shirt or microfiber towel to minimize frizz. Add 1 part oil to 3 parts moisturizer/creamy leave-in, and apply all over. I prefer jojoba oil in the summer and castor oil in the winter. One at a time, unravel each twist and create multiple twists per section, twisting as close to the roots as possible. Add less twists for chunkier results. No need to detangle again. *Apply more product if needed.*

Step 4: Whether air drying or using a heat source, allow hair to dry thoroughly before unraveling. This will help to obtain frizz-free results. Carefully separate hair to desired fullness, and you’re all set! *If you have unsightly parts, take a pick and gently lift hair at the roots only.*

Step 5: To preserve the twist out overnight, sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet on your head. *If your hair is longer try adding a few jumbo twists prior to wrapping.*

Tip: Twist hair in the same direction in which your curls/coils grow out of your scalp. Keep in mind that it could be different on the other side of your head. If you do not have a curl pattern, try twisting in the opposite direction of what you’re used to. This could help you achieve a more crisp, defined look. 😉

Any Questions? Comment Below

What are you tips for the perfect twist out?