How to Do Two-Strand Twists

No longer a mark of idleness, twisting strands opens up styling options.

Twists are a dual-purpose hair styling marvel. Twisting strands of hair together creates interesting texture, but once the twists are released, your hair takes on eye-catching appeal that can enhance both loose styles and updos. Twists can be created in two different ways. Flat twists, like French braids, require twisting the hair toward the scalp. They can be designed to traverse the entire scalp. Two-strand twists are akin to English braids and are simpler to accomplish.

Things You'll Need

• Comb
• Hair clips
• Small ponytail holders
• Hair gel or leave-in conditioner (optional)

Instructions

1. Divide your hair into four sections and clip three of the sections out of the way.

2. Divide the single section you are working with into two to four sections, depending on how wide you want each twist to be.

3. Divide each of the two to four mini-sections into two fairly even sections.

4. Twist one of the two even sections over the other repeatedly until you reach the end of the strands.

5. Secure the twist with a small ponytail holder. Twist the remaining portions of the first quarter of your head, then perform the same steps with each of the other three quarters of your head until you have made twists all over your head.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want hair to retain the twisted texture once you release the twists, coat each section of hair with styling gel or leave-in conditioner before twisting the strands together. Leave the twists in overnight or for several hours. Undo them and finger-comb to style your twist out.

• Twists may be taut at the scalp but not tight. Putting too much tension on the hair can result in hair damage.

References

• Black Women Beauty Central: Hair Twist