How To Do A Twist Out In 7 Steps

One of the best parts about a gorgeous head of natural hair is the endless ways to style it, from quick wash-and-go styles to time-consuming creations like long fulani braids. But out of all the styles, one continues to be a top choice: the twist out. This simple but stunning protective hairstyle takes just a few steps (and a bit of time) to create a beautiful, wavy pattern throughout your mane. Ahead, we’re sharing everything you need to know to create the perfect twist out on your natural hair.

What Is A Twist Out?

This hair technique involves placing single strand, two-strand, or flat twists all throughout damp hair. The twist out is one of the easiest natural hairstyles as you can create this stunning style in no time using some of our must-have natural hair products and just seven steps. Check out the steps below for your guide to a gorgeous twist out.

Step 1: Clean and Detangle Your Hair

To ensure that your twist out is bouncy and wavy, you’ll need to start with clean, detangled, hydrated hair. Wash with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Conditioner. Then apply a leave-in conditioner like the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Super Curls Cream Leave-In and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your curls.

Step 2: Part Your Hair Four Ways

After washing your hair, section your strands into four large quadrants by creating a part straight down the middle of your scalp and then another part going across the scalp horizontally. Clip three sections out of the way and leave out whichever section you’ll work on first.

 

Step 3: Apply Styling Products 

To help soften, shape, and extend the life of your twist out, choose a hold product for the look you prefer. If you want a soft hold, we recommend using the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Flexible Hold Cream. For more defined waves, try the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Lock It Clean Style Gel. 

To apply, separate a section of hair from the strands that are already left out and work your hair cream or hair gel through it from root to tip. Brush your hair out, and get ready to build your twist out. 

Step 5: Create Your Twists 

When doing a twist out, it’s easier to work on damp hair. So grab a spray bottle, fill it with water, and mist evenly over your hair as you go. Depending on the results you want, there are three twist techniques to choose from. 

The most common is the two strand twist. Start with a mini section of your hair, separate it into two strands, stretch the hair out and start twisting the hair over and under until you reach the ends. Using a bit of hair cream or gel, twirl the ends into a curl with your finger. 

For single-strand twists, start from the root of your hair and twist your hair in either an inward or outward direction until you form a coil. 

To create flat twists, part a row at the front of your hair and end at the back of your head. Separate the row of hair into two strands, start twisting over and under, and collect more hair into both strands until you reach the ends (almost like cornrow braiding except with twists).

 

Step 6: Allow Your Hair To Dry

To get the best results from your twist out, your hair needs to be completely dry. If your hair is still wet or damp, your twist out will not hold. Air drying is the best way to achieve big, bouncy curls. If you decide to dry your hair overnight, use a silk or satin scarf to keep your mane smooth and moisturized. 

Step 7: Take Your Twists Out

The key to sporting luscious waves is to untwist your hair with patience. Before you start, oil your fingertips with four to five drops of hair oil like the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Treatment to help eliminate frizz. Then, unravel your twists based on the technique you used to create them.

If you created two-strand twists and flat twists, carefully untwist your hair starting from the bottom and working your way up. 

For single-strand twists, unravel your coils by twisting them in the opposite direction then separate them to create volume and a full look with your twist out. 

Editor’s tip: A well-maintained twist out can last for a week so be sure to wrap your hair in a silk scarf at night. to add some volume and refresh your waves, reach for a dry shampoo like L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Air Volume Dry Shampoo.

Next: 15 Hot Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair

Written by: Lauren Paige Richeson, Photo Credit: Melissa Wilcox, IG/@eatwholelivefit