How To Make Your Twist-Out Last Longer - Byrdie

Twist-outs are one of the most popular natural hairstyles. They're easy to do—you take two sections of your hair and twist them, leave them in for a few hours or overnight, and then unravel them—and give you bouncy curls without the risk of heat damage. But as appealing as twist-outs are, as anyone who has attempted one (or several) can tell you, the results can often be mixed. Sometimes, you unravel your twists to discover middling definition at best; sometimes, what initially looked like a promising style quickly devolves into a limp, frizzy disappointment; and on especially rough hair days, you get both.

We asked hair experts to share their best advice for creating gorgeous twist-outs that last. Read on for their 10 must-know twist-out tips.

Meet the Experts

• Leigh Hardges is a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.
• Korell Williams is a hairstylist at Amazon Salon in London, UK.

Prep Your Hair

If you don't prep your hair before twisting, your twist-outs won't last long and probably won't come out as well as you'd like. The first step is to use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to ensure the hair is clean and well moisturized. Follow this with a thorough detangling: "This will help you avoid any knots or tangles during the twisting process," says Korell Williams at Amazon Salon.

Use Water as a Base

"The key to the perfect twist set is water," says Leigh Hardges, who notes that this is especially important for high-porosity hair. Applying all your hair product for a twist out in the shower might not be ideal, but a spray bottle will help you re-saturate each section as you layer. Pattern's Mist Spray Bottle is great for giving your curls a continuous fine mist in a prolonged spray.

Try a Curl Cream and a Mousse

Sometimes a curl cream on its own isn't enough. You might need to combine it with a mousse to achieve good curl definition, hold, and shine. We suggest adding The Doux's Mousse Def Texture Foam to your twist-out routine. As for the curl cream, it's best to look for one that provides hydration to help soften your hair and avoid 'crunchy' twist-outs. "I typically use a curl cream like Oribe's Curl Butter for a twist set," says Hardges.

Apply Products In Even Sections

To avoid uneven twist-outs, Williams says it is best to part your hair into even sections using a rat-tail comb, then apply your products. You may want to layer all your products on your entire head, but it's also best to apply products section by section, adds Hardges. This way you ensure the product is evenly distributed from root to tip and you don't end up with hair that is weighed down and looks greasy.

Try Smaller Twists

Smaller twists may lend themselves better to longer-lasting twist-outs and a more defined style. It will take more time to fashion small twists, but the effort is worth it for a twist-out that lasts. "Divide each section into two smaller sections and twist them around each other from the roots to the ends," instructs Williams. "Make sure to twist tightly enough to hold the curl pattern, but not so tight that it causes tension."

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Leave Twists in Longer

How long your twist-out lasts depends on how long you leave the twists in before unraveling them. Consider how your hair will look if you style two-strand twists left in for several hours, overnight, or a few days: Leaving your twists in overnight will have a nice result for a short period of time, but if you wear your twists for a week, your shape may last a few days.

Try a Pineapple

Pineappling is an excellent tool for natural hair. "For maintenance, a 'pineapple' is worry-free," says Hardges. "Lean the head over, upside down, and tie a scarf around the sides and back. When you come up, your hair will [resemble] the plume of leaves atop a pineapple." When it's time to fluff your twist out, Hardges recommends styling at the scalp to prevent disrupting your curls.

Don't Forget a Silk or Satin Scarf

To preserve your twist-out overnight, sleep on a silk or satin surface to help prevent friction and moisture loss. We recommend Grace Eleyae's Adjustable Slap - Satin-Lined Cap as you can adjust it and ensure it fits you perfectly. If a silk or satin bonnet isn't your thing (or you're afraid it could slip off while you sleep), opt for a satin or silk pillowcase instead—your hair and skin will thank you.

Don't Rush the Process

Yes, we know that twist-outs can be tedious, but please don't rush the process. As with most things in life, good results take time. On that note, don't rush to take your twists out before your hair has fully dried: This may reduce curl definition and lead to more frizz. "Let your twists air-dry completely before unraveling them," advises Williams. "You will need to wait a few hours or even overnight."

Embrace Frizz

If you've tried everything you can think of to make your twist-outs last longer than one day and you still haven't been successful, realize that some hair types are going to frizz more easily than others. For some people, a two-day twist-out is just not doable, either due to hair type or the weather. Natural hair may swell and want to curl in moist air; if you attempt a twist-out during humid summer months, you probably won't get the long-lasting hold you'd get in a non-humid climate or season. If you live in a non-humid area or attempt a twist-out in the fall and winter, you may have better luck with stretching that twist-out time further.