The summer is usually the perfect time to experiment with a lot of creative hairstyles. But sometimes you just need a break and what better way than with a protective style. Instead of getting expensive hair extensions or a hairstyle that is too tight, try this inexpensive protective style that is mini twists.
SHOULD YOU GET MINI TWISTS?
Mini twists are one of the best protective hairstyles for type 4 hair because they give your hair a break from daily manipulation. Some other benefits are that they can be worn on different hair textures and lengths, plus you can style them in a variety of different ways.
If you have been wondering whether or not you should get mini twists, we have created this ultimate guide to help you decide. In this guide you will learn the pros and cons to doing mini twists. Also, you will learn how to install mini twists on your own hair. Lastly, we will teach you how to take care of your new twists so that they last longer and how you can increase your hair growth. So…sit back, relax and let’s get to it!
PROS
- EASY TO INSTALL
Compared to mini braids or box braids with added extensions, mini twists take a shorter time of time to install. On average, braids can take anywhere from about 4-12 hours to completely install. On average, most women said that mini twists take about 1-4 hours to install. However, the length and thickness of your hair will determine if the installation time is longer or shorter.
- VERSATILE STYLING
Mini twists offer a lot of styling options and can be worn in variety of different ways. Some examples would be styling your mini twists in a bun, bantu knots, perm rod curls, half up half down or wear them pulled back with a side or center part.
- EASY REMOVAL
We rank “easy removal” as a top benefit because people want to know that their hairstyle can be removed quicker than in was installed. Mini twists are easier to remove than mini braids. They can take as little as 30 minutes to remove depending on the length and volume of your hair.
CONS
Now that you know all the reasons why mini twists are amazing, let’s talk about some of the cons.
- SHRINKAGE
Shrinkage is the enemy! I mean who doesn’t love to show off their hair length? Unfortunately mini twists are not likely going to reveal the true length of your hair. However, there is a solution.
You can try stretching your natural hair by holding the ends and using a warm blow dryer to help elongate your twists. Or, you can also try the banding method. The banding method involves using hair ties along the length of your hair in a stretched out state to help elongate your hair.
- TANGLES
Tangling can occur from keeping your twists in for too long. It is advised to not keep your mini twists in past 4-6 weeks to avoid extensive tangles when its time to remove them.
- WATCH OUT FOR THE FRIZZ!!
Mini twist on type 4 hair will have some frizz. Especially if you spritz them everyday with water. Also, everyone’s hair washing schedule is different. While some people wash weekly, others wash bi-weekly or monthly. However many times you decide to wash hair, just remember that each hair wash will cause more frizz.
Using a moisturising foam wrap on your hair after washing will help to moisturise your twists and reduce hair frizz after a wash or during the week.
HOW TO DO MINI TWISTS ON TYPE 4 HAIR
Now that we covered the pros and cons let’s talk about how to do mini twists and what tools you will need. Mini twists are not difficult to do, but when done properly this hairstyle will look great and last you longer. You can do this style by yourself or have a friend help you out. Some of the tools that you’ll need include;
- A sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner, preferably one that is recommended for natural hair;
- A leave-in conditioner to help detangle and to moisturise.
- An anti-frizz hair towel for natural hair.
- A twisting butter or natural shea butter for hold and styling. We have a complete list of our favorite products for twists here.
- Detangling brush.
- Sectioning comb to part your hair.
- Strong sectioning clips to section and hold your hair.
- Silky satin bonnet to protect your twists at night and reduce frizz.
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
We broke this mini twist guide down into step-by-step instructions to make it easier follow.
- START ON FRESHLY WASHED HAIR.
Considering that you probably want to wear your twists for a few weeks, you should wash your hair first. It’s also a good idea to pre-poo for about 30 minutes prior to washing your hair. Next, wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Root2tip’s Stimulate and Cleanse shampoo is one of the best and we highly recommend it. After you rinse off the shampoo, apply a moisturising conditioner and detangle your hair. Finish, by drying your hair with your anti-frizz towel.
- MOISTURISE YOUR HAIR.
Now it’s time to apply a generous amount of leave-in-conditioner to moisturise your hair from the ends up to the roots up. We recommend using Root2tip’s Triple Protein Mask. This will ensure that your hair stays hydrated and it will make twisting each section much easier.
- CREATE YOUR MINI TWISTS USING THE TWO STRAND TWIST METHOD.
Begin by sectioning your hair into 4-6 sections. Depending how small you want your mini twists to be, part your hair taking 1-2 inch sections with a rat tail comb or using your fingers. Then, apply a little bit of your shea butter to that section of hair. You can try Root2tip’s Whipped BB Butter made from organic Shea.
Next, split the section of hair that you are going to be twisting into two separate pieces. Now begin to twist each section of hair over each in the direction that your hair normally curls all the way until your reach the ends. Twirl the end of your hair around your finger to form a small curl to lock in the twist. After doing this, you should have created you first mini two-strand twist. As you twist, don’t hesitate to spray your hair with water or add more products if you feel a little stickiness or stiffness.
- INCREASE YOUR HAIR GROWTH.
After your twists are done don’t forget to add a hair growth oil like the Root2tip’s Root Energizer Oil to your scalp every 1-2 nights to encourage growth. Use your fingertips to gently massage in the oil for about 5-10 minutes. Finally, you can leave your twists to air dry or sit under a hooded dryer if you want them to dry faster.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR NEW TWISTS.
Always wear a satin silky bonnet at night to reduce frizz and keep your twists looking neat.
Be sure to keep track of how long your twists have been installed. Remember that they begin to tangle when keep them in for too long. For best practice keep them in no longer than 4-6 weks.
Apply Root2tip’s Triple Protein Mask leave in conditioner 3 -4 times a week and Root2tip’s Whipped BB Butter to keep them moisturised and your hair nourished. It will also help to get used to twist hair.
Apply your hair growth oil every night or every other night to keep your hair growing long and strong.
HOW LONG DO MINI TWISTS LAST.
Depending on the individual, mini twists can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month. Before installing your twists, start with clean and well-moisturised hair.
ARE MINI TWISTS GOOD FOR HAIR GROWTH.
Twists are a great way to protect your hair from damage and promote healthy hair growth. The key is to make sure your hair is not too tight or left in for too long.
In conclusion, mini twists offer a fantastic option for those seeking a protective hairstyle, especially for type 4 hair. They provide a break from daily manipulation, offer versatile styling options, and are relatively easy to install and remove. While they may result in some shrinkage, tangling, and frizz, these concerns can be managed with proper care and maintenance techniques. By following a step-by-step guide and utilizing the right products, mini twists can be a great way to promote healthy hair growth while keeping your hair protected and stylish.