Break the norm by doing a twist out on natural hair. I have worn my hair natural for the past 7 years. For those of you who may not know, “going natural” for a black woman means to wear your hair using no chemical straightening process aka “relaxer.” A lot of women refuse to go natural because of the time they believe it takes to maintain. Here, I’m going to show you how to do a twist out on natural hair in three simple steps!
Twist Out on Natural Hair | How You Perfect a Twist Out
In this article:
An Introduction to Twist Out on Natural Hair
I’m here to tell you that as working wife and mother, I often did not have the time to do a lot of fancy braided or twisted styles nor did I have the patience or skill. So, I have always mostly rocked wash and go’s because I could never find a nice/fun style that was quick and easy. At last, I have finally found a way to achieve the perfect twist out! It does not matter where I go. I am always asked, “How did you get your hair to do that?” Here is a picture of my favorite natural hair twist out style.
Steps on How to Twist Out Natural Hair
I’m always happy to explain that it’s really simple. My technique is as easy as doing these three steps:
Wet Hair Application
Step 1: Wash (or Co-wash)/Detangle
I rarely use shampoo to wash my hair, but when I do, I use Curls Unleashed Sulfate Free Lavish N Lather Shampoo. I mostly “co-wash” my hair. To “co-wash” is to use a conditioner in place of shampoo to cleanse the hair. This method of cleansing works for me, and I do it once a week. My favorite conditioners to use for co-washing are Giovanni Deep Moisture Leave-In Conditioner, Koils By Nature Hydrating Shealoe Creamy Conditioner, and Curls Unleashed No Restrictions Moisturizing Conditioner. All three of these conditioners are very thick, have great slip, and are also wonderful for use as detanglers.
To detangle my hair, I saturate it with one of the conditioners previously mentioned. I then section my hair as I go, carefully combing through each section with a wide tooth shower comb. After detangling each section, I rinse with tepid water.
Step 2: Apply Leave-In Conditioner
My leave-in conditioners of choice are as follows: Kinky Curly Knot Today and Jessicurl Too Shea Moisturizing Conditioner. Applying a leave-in conditioner is really great for retaining moisture and preventing dryness. I apply a generous amount.
Step 3: Twist Hair into Big Plaits
After the leave-in is applied, I section my hair into 6 plaits and create large 2 strand twists for each as I go. Afterward, I let my hair air dry with the twists.
Dry Hair Application
Step 1: Finger Detangle
When you finger detangle, simply use your fingers to gently separate dry hair. You don’t have to comb your hair through. Just divide it into sections as little or big as you want for twisting.
Step 2: Apply A Leave-In (Lightly) Along With A Little Oil Or Butter
On dry hair, apply a small amount of your favorite leave-in conditioner to your separated hair, enough to moisten but not saturate it. Do the same with your favorite butter or oil (my preference is Sistah Buttah). Adding a tiny bit to each section seals in the new moisture you’re adding and also adds shine and definition later.
Step 3: Twist Hair into Big Plaits
In both instances (wet versus dry hair), once the twisted plaits have COMPLETELY dried, separate each twist with oiled fingers once, twice, or three times depending on your desired outcome. Remember, the more you manipulate the hair, the more frizzy or poofy it becomes. Your “perfect” twist out still depends on what you want to achieve.
Realizing that, everyone’s hair doesn’t have the same texture, length, etc. Sometimes, it’s better to have an actual tutorial. Additionally, it’s good to have a video you’re not well-versed in the “natural hair” lingo (i.e., “Wash N Go”, “Twist Out”, “Detangle”, etc). A video is always a good way to show and allow folks to learn at their own pace.
Here’s my video tutorial that shows how I create MY Perfect Twist Out style:
The twist out on natural hair is a great and versatile style that’s easy to do. For those of you who are new “naturals,” don’t be afraid to play with your hair and experiment! It’s the only way to truly understand your hair.
Disclaimer: My way of twisting natural black hair works for me but may not work for you. You should always find what techniques work best for the look that you want to achieve.
How do you want to twist out on natural hair? Share your what you know in the comments section!
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Editor’s Note – This post was originally published on October 31, 2013, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.