4 Ways To Twist Hair - WikiHow

Home » How To Twist Your Own Hair » 4 Ways To Twist Hair - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow Twisting Your Own Hair at Home: A Step-By-Step Guide PDF download Download Article Enchance your natural hair with these super easy DIY styles Co-authored by Nikia Londy

Last Updated: March 31, 2025 References

PDF download Download Article
  • Creating Two-Strand Twists
    • |
  • Doing Three-Strand Twists
    • |
  • Maintaining Your Twists
    • |
  • Creating Hairstyles with Twists
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Nikia Londy. Nikia Londy is a Hair Augmentation Specialist and the Founder and CEO of Intriguing Hair, a one-stop solution for women from all ethnicities wanting to purchase high-quality human hair extensions, hairpieces, and wigs. With over 16 years of experience, she specializes in artificial hair integrations, hair extensions, hair loss, hairpieces and wigs, and non-surgical hair replacement. Nikia holds a BA in Organizational Leadership from Charter Oak State College and received her Cosmetology Certification from Blaine Beauty School. She is also a member of the American Hair Loss Council. This article has been viewed 159,828 times.

Twists are a beautiful, protective hairstyle for naturally curly or wavy hair, and you don't have to go to a salon to rock the look. In this article, we'll show you how to easily create two-strand and three-strand twists at home. We've also got tips for helping your twists last as long as possible, plus cute hairstyles you can create with them. Grab a comb and let's get started!

How do you do hair twists?

  1. Grab a section of hair about 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) thick along your hairline.
  2. Secure the rest of your hair out using hair clips or elastic ties.
  3. Work a dollop of styling product through your hair with a comb.
  4. Separate the hair into 2 equal sections.
  5. Twist the sections around each other.
  6. Seal your twist with a bit of gel at the end.
  7. Repeat the process on the rest of your hair.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 4:

Creating Two-Strand Twists

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Create uniform sections of hair using a rattail comb or your fingers. 1 Create uniform sections of hair using a rattail comb or your fingers. You can make any size twists you’d like. For small, average-sized twists, grab a section of hair about 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) thick along your hairline. Secure the rest of your hair out of the way using hair clips or elastic ties.
    • Dampen your hair before dividing it into sections.[1]
    • When starting the twist method, it’s easiest to work from back to front.
    • If you prefer larger twists, grab a strand that is 2–4 in (5.1–10.2 cm) thick. Remember, larger twists require longer hair. Shorter hair may not be long enough to twist together in large sections.
    • For best results, use a section of hair that is all about the same length. If the hair in each of your sections varies in length, your twists may not stay in place.
  2. Step 2 Comb a dab of coconut oil or hair gel through each section of hair. 2 Comb a dab of coconut oil or hair gel through each section of hair. The particular products you use depend on your hair type and desired hold. In general, scoop up a dab of coconut oil, and rub it in between your hands. Comb the oil through your hair from root to tip using your fingers. Then, do the same with a dab of styling gel or cream. [2] [3]
    • This smooths your hair and helps it stay in the twist shape.
    • If you hair dries quickly, try adding the gel section by section rather than applying it all at once. Don't let the gel harden before you've had the opportunity to twist your hair.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Separate the hair into 2 equal sections. 3 Separate the hair into 2 equal sections.[4] To do the two-strand twist, create 2 evenly-sized sections using your fingers or a rattail comb. The sections should be roughly the same size, but it’s okay if they aren’t exact.[5]
    • To keep the sections separated, hold the ends of your hair in your hands.
  4. Step 4 Twist 1 of the sections of hair around the other. 4 Twist 1 of the sections of hair around the other. Hold 1 section of hair in each of your hands, and bring 1 hand over the other to start your twist. Continue this hand-over-hand movement to twist the section of hair around the other strand. Wrap the hair with even tension until you reach the end of your hair.[6]
    • As you do this, be sure to move your hands in the same direction to create a uniform twist.
    • Twist the sections of hair together tightly so they do not unravel when you let go.
  5. Step 5 Apply a bit of product to the ends so the twist stays in place. 5 Apply a bit of product to the ends so the twist stays in place.[7] Once you get to the end of your hair, hold the strands in 1 hand, scoop a bit of hair gel with the other, and rub the product onto the end of your hair. Curly hair often stays in place on its own, although you can use small hair ties to secure the ends if you’d like.[8]
    • You only need a small dab of product to secure your ends. Experiment with shea butter, twisting creams, and hair gel to see what works the best.
  6. Step 6 Continue twisting all of your hair in small, uniform sections. 6 Continue twisting all of your hair in small, uniform sections. If you want an all over twisted style, move on to another section of hair after you secure your first twist. Start your next one immediately next to the first, and continue creating twists from the front of your head to the back.[9]
    • Depending on how much hair you have and how long it is, this process can take quite some time. Take breaks when you need to, You can watch a movie or listen to music as you do this.
    7. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 4:

Doing Three-Strand Twists

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Pick a 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) section of hair that's all the same length. 1 Pick a 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) section of hair that's all the same length. To make your twist, grasp a 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) thick section along your hairline. Section your hair using your fingers or a rattail comb. It’s best to use a section of hair that is about the same length overall so the twists stay in place and don’t have loose ends sticking out.[10]
  2. Step 2 Apply styling products to the strand so the twist stays in place. 2 Apply styling products to the strand so the twist stays in place. Use a dab of gel and/or styling oil to maintain the twists. Rub the product in your hands, and apply it from your roots to your ends.[11]
    • Using styling product before you twist your hair helps the coils stay in position for several days. It also helps you define your twists, which in turn helps if and when you decide to unravel the twists.
  3. Step 3 Separate the hair... 3 Separate the hair into 3 even sections as if you are braiding it. Once you have your individual section, divide it into 3 equally-sized strands to create your twist. Then, position the 3 sections side-by-side.[12]
    • This is the same basic steps you’d take if you were braiding your hair, but instead of moving 2 of the 3 strands, you’ll only adjust 1 of them.
  4. Step 4 Bring the section of hair closest to your neck over top of the other 2. 4 Bring the section of hair closest to your neck over top of the other 2. Look in the mirror as you twist your hair so you can clearly see each strand. Move the strand closest to your neck over top of the other 2 strands to reposition it on the opposite side. This creates the start of your twist.[13]
  5. Step 5 Continue moving the strand closest to your neck over the others. 5 Continue moving the strand closest to your neck over the others. Once you move the first strand, bring the strand that is now close to your neck (the middle strand in the step above) over top of the other 2 strands. This strand now is furthest away from your neck. Continue this process until you reach the end of your hair.[14]
  6. Step 6 Secure the ends of your hair using styling product or a hair tie. 6 Secure the ends of your hair using styling product or a hair tie. When you get to the very end of the strand, leave about 1 in (2.5 cm) at the end. Apply a small dab of hair gel or coconut oil to the very end for a gentle hold. If you have curly hair, the twist should stay in place. For a more secure hold, wrap a small elastic hair tie around the end of the strand.[15]
    • This way, the twists do not come undone as you style your hair.
  7. Step 7 Do this for all of your hair to create a more advanced twist style. 7 Do this for all of your hair to create a more advanced twist style. After you create your first twist, grab a section of hair right next to the twist to make your next one. Continue doing this working from front to back until all of your hair is in twists.[16]
    • The three-strand twist is slightly more difficult to do than the two-strand twist, so this is a good idea once you master the two-strand technique.
    8. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 4:

Maintaining Your Twists

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Rock your twists for 1-2 weeks. 1 Rock your twists for 1-2 weeks. On average, your twists will stay in place for about a week or so. By using products and hair ties, you can keep your twists intact for up to 2 weeks. This is a great, short-term preventative style. After 1-2 weeks, undo your hair and try something new.[17]
    • For instance, wear your hair in two-strand twists for a few weeks, then try out the three-strand twist next. You can make your next twists a bit thinner or thicker if you’d like.
  2. Step 2 Retwist your hair if you notice any sections coming undone. 2 Retwist your hair if you notice any sections coming undone. If the ends of your twists start to unravel, simply twist them back into place and apply a bit more hair product. This way, you can extend the total time of your twist hairstyle.[18]
    • As the hairs loosen, the twists may appear bigger. This is perfectly normal, and if you don’t like this look you can try twisting the hair tighter next time.
  3. Step 3 Wear a silk cap when you sleep to help your twists last longer. 3 Wear a silk cap when you sleep to help your twists last longer. To prevent your twists from coming undone or getting frizzy, put on a silk cap before you go to bed. Stretch the cap over your head, ensuring all of your twists are inside.[19]
    • You can purchase a silk cap at most beauty supply stores or online.
  4. Step 4 Shampoo your scalp to wash your hair without undoing the twists. 4 Shampoo your scalp to wash your hair without undoing the twists. If you want to wash your hair but don’t want your twists to come out, rub a dime-size amount of shampoo in your hands, and apply it directly to your scalp. Avoid getting much of the product directly on your twists. Massage your scalp with your fingers, and rinse out the shampoo completely. You can apply conditioner the same way to moisturize your scalp if you’d like.[20]
    • Do this if your hair is very oily or if your scalp starts to itch.
    5. Advertisement
Method 4 Method 4 of 4:

Creating Hairstyles with Twists

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Unravel each section... 1 Unravel each section to create a twist-out look. Sleep with your hair in a two-strand twist overnight, and gently unravel each twist the next morning. Shake your head from side to side to loosen the coils. Use a little coconut oil if your hair is dry, but pat it gently over your hair to keep it in a puffy shape. This is a cute, casual alternative to your twisted look.
    • With this look, your hair is still curly and coiled, but the twists look relaxed and loose rather than tightly wrapped.
    • If you did your twists when your hair was damp, you need to allow your hair to dry completely before unraveling your twists.
    • You can also leave your hair in two-strand twists for 2-3 days for tight, kinky coils.
  2. Step 2 Tie your twists... 2 Tie your twists into a ponytail for a simple updo. For a simple, classy look, grasp all of your twists at the crown of your head, and secure them using an elastic hair tie. Make sure your coils are all smooth and flat at the top of your head. This is an easy style great for casual day-to-day looks.
    • For example, tie up your hair when running errands or grabbing lunch with friends.
    • This is also a great way to keep your hair out of the way while exercising.
  3. Step 3 Wrap your twists... 3 Wrap your twists into a bun for an elegant evening style. Pull all of your twists back, and grip them at the crown of your head. Wrap a hair tie around your hair, but leave the ends secured in the elastic rather than pulling the hair all the way through. You can wrap 1 of your twists around the base of the bun for a cute touch.
    • This is a simple, traditional style that looks great for work or for going out on a date.
    4. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question What if your scarf came off overnight? Ivyonna Egan Ivyonna Egan Community Answer Oil and a bit of fixing will do! You will need good-grade hair oil and refix the twists where needed. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
  • Question Would this work without gel? Ivyonna Egan Ivyonna Egan Community Answer Unfortunately no, unless you use high grade hair oil and your hair is not frizzy. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Things You’ll Need

  • Rattail comb
  • Coconut oil
  • Hair gel
  • Clips
  • Hair ties
  • Silk scarf

Tips

  • Be patient and take your time when twisting your hair yourself. This process can take some time, but it’s much cheaper than getting it done at a salon. Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 1
  • For best results, wash and detangle your hair before you twist it. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 3
  • If you have short hair, you can easily do the two-strand twist. However, you may find it easier to rock a twisted style if you get extensions before you twist your hair. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 3
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Do Twist BraidsHow toDo Twist Braids Twist Short Natural Hair (Male)2 Techniques for Twisting Short Natural Hair (for Men) Do Two Strand TwistsHow toDo Two Strand Twists Do a Twist OutHow toDo a Twist Out Do a Flat TwistHow toDo a Flat Twist Mini TwistsGet Perfect Mini Twists at Home with This Step-by-Step Guide Curl Hair by Twisting ItHow toCurl Hair by Twisting It How to Do Senegalese Twists Twist Hairstyles for Guys40 Twist Hairstyles for Men & What Makes Them Unique Wash TwistsHow toWash Twists How toBraid Short Hair for Men Curl Your Hair Overnight with TwistsHow toCurl Your Hair Overnight with Twists How toCurl Hair with Braids Give Yourself Dreadlocks2 Ways to Get Dreadlocks for Straight and Curly Hair Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ Nikia Londy. Hair Augmentation Specialist. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ https://abeautifulmess.com/2014/11/natural-hair-two-strand-twists.html
  3. ↑ Nikia Londy. Hair Augmentation Specialist. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ Nikia Londy. Hair Augmentation Specialist. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://abeautifulmess.com/2014/11/natural-hair-two-strand-twists.html
  6. ↑ Nikia Londy. Hair Augmentation Specialist. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ Nikia Londy. Hair Augmentation Specialist. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ https://youtu.be/ZIeuXzxXqYE?t=1m33s
  9. ↑ https://youtu.be/zOm3KE925hc?t=4m23s
More References (11)
  1. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  2. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  3. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  4. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  5. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  6. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  7. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  8. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  9. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  10. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/
  11. ↑ https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/hair/beauty-tips/a38868/how-to-twist-natural-textured-hair/

About This Article

Nikia Londy Co-authored by: Nikia Londy Hair Augmentation Specialist This article was co-authored by Nikia Londy. Nikia Londy is a Hair Augmentation Specialist and the Founder and CEO of Intriguing Hair, a one-stop solution for women from all ethnicities wanting to purchase high-quality human hair extensions, hairpieces, and wigs. With over 16 years of experience, she specializes in artificial hair integrations, hair extensions, hair loss, hairpieces and wigs, and non-surgical hair replacement. Nikia holds a BA in Organizational Leadership from Charter Oak State College and received her Cosmetology Certification from Blaine Beauty School. She is also a member of the American Hair Loss Council. This article has been viewed 159,828 times. 16 votes - 86% Co-authors: 5 Updated: March 31, 2025 Views: 159,828 Categories: Curling Hair Article SummaryX

To make simple 2-strand twists with your hair, start by separating it into 2-inch-thick sections and securing them with hair clips or elastic ties. Once all of your hair is separated into sections, comb a dab of coconut oil through your first section to make your hair smoother and easier to work with. Then, split the first section in 2 and twist the first piece around the second piece, keeping the strands tight. When you get to the end, use an elastic tie to hold the section together. Alternatively, apply a small amount of hair gel for a more natural look. Once you’ve finished the first section, continue with the others until all of your hair is in twists. For more tips from our Beauty co-author, including how to maintain your twists, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languagesSpanish
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 159,828 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Nikia Londy Co-authored by: Nikia Londy Hair Augmentation Specialist Co-authors: 5 Updated: March 31, 2025 Views: 159,828 86% of readers found this article helpful. 16 votes - 86% Click a star to add your vote

Quizzes & Games

What's My Hair Type QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizHair Curl Type QuizHair Curl Type QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?What’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat Haircut Should I Get QuizWhat Haircut Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat Men's Haircut Should I Get QuizWhat Men's Haircut Should I Get QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Do Twist BraidsHow toDo Twist BraidsTwist Short Natural Hair (Male)2 Techniques for Twisting Short Natural Hair (for Men)Do Two Strand TwistsHow toDo Two Strand TwistsDo a Twist OutHow toDo a Twist Out

Featured Articles

What 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanWhat 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends BetterJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends Better40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & More40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & MoreMake FriendsHow toMake Friends

Trending Articles

Do I Have Brainrot QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizWhat Pokémon Am I Quiz151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to Ask151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to AskSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouDo You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?

Featured Articles

The Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupThe Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupAn Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)An Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male PersonalitiesFrom Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities

Featured Articles

7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in Minutes7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in Minutes Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHow to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHypnotize SomeoneHow toHypnotize SomeoneThe Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try?The Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try? Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesHow to Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesWhistle with Two FingersHow toWhistle with Two Fingers

Watch Articles

Grow Out Your BangsHow toGrow Out Your BangsDress PunkHow toDress PunkEnd a Long Distance RelationshipHow toEnd a Long Distance RelationshipDo E Girl EyelinerHow toDo E Girl EyelinerRespond to the Fire EmojiHow toRespond to the Fire Emoji Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look SmallHow to Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look Small

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Am I More Hannah Montana or Miley Stewart?Am I More Hannah Montana or Miley Stewart?The Most Attractive Zodiac Signs & What Makes Each Sign BeautifulThe Most Attractive Zodiac Signs & What Makes Each Sign Beautiful24 Different Types of Bras Explained24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?

Quizzes & Games

What Color Should I Dye My Hair QuizWhat Color Should I Dye My Hair QuizTake QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizAm I Balding QuizAm I Balding QuizTake QuizMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Personal Care and Style
  • Hair Care
  • Hair Texture
  • Curly Hair
  • Curling Hair
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --853

Tag » How To Twist Your Own Hair