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MINI TWISTS: THE ULTIMATE TIKTOK PROTECTIVE STYLE

Many view mini twists as just a step toward achieving a voluminous twist-out, but before rushing to undo them, why not embrace the look on its own? Mini twists have been gaining popularity on TikTok (with the hashtag #minitwists reaching 65.8 million views) and for good reason—they’re a low-key yet stylish protective hairstyle.

“Mini twists are a low-maintenance protective style for natural hair,” explains Sabrina Rowe Holdsworth, a New York City-based hairstylist and founder of NTRL by Sabs. “They help retain length, lock in moisture, and offer a versatile foundation for various styles.” Celebrities like Lupita Nyong’o and Tabitha Brown demonstrate the adaptability of mini twists, rocking them in half-up ponytails and chic side-part bobs.

However, before committing to mini twists, it’s important to consider the time and effort involved in creating them and how long they will last.

Ahead, hair experts break down everything you’ll need to know to achieve the look at home.

WHAT ARE MINI TWISTS?

Mini twists are a protective hairstyle where small sections of hair are twisted into two-strand twists. “Each piece of hair is repeatedly crossed over the other, forming a rope-like pattern,” explains Ashanti Johnson, a Chicago-based hairstylist and braider for synthetic braiding hair brand Rebundle. This style can be done on natural hair alone or with the addition of kinky texture extensions to enhance length and fullness.

Tools You’ll Need
If you’re planning to do mini twists at home, make sure your styling station is ready with these essentials:

  • Parting comb to help section your hair.
  • Wide-tooth comb or brush for detangling as you work.
  • Leave-in conditioner or curl cream to define and enhance your curls.
  • Hair clips or scrunchies to keep sections secure while you twist.
  • Braiding gel to create clean, neat parts.

HOW TO DO MINI TWISTS

Preparation:

As with any protective style, it’s best to begin with freshly-washed hair to ensure your mini twists look neat and last as long as possible. Dirty hair may have product buildup or tangles that can make styling difficult. Moisturizing your hair beforehand is also crucial, as it’s harder to thoroughly hydrate your strands once the twists are in.

Mini twists require a bit of tension, so well-conditioned hair is less likely to break during the process. Sabrina Rowe Holdsworth recommends applying a deep conditioner for 20 to 30 minutes, followed by sealing your hair with a leave-in conditioner once you’re out of the shower.

For added length and uniformity, you can opt to stretch your curls by blow-drying before twisting. Though optional, Holdsworth explains that this can make your twists look longer and more consistent. If you decide to blow dry your hair, Ashanti Johnson suggests reapplying your leave-in conditioner afterward to restore some of your natural curl pattern. This step will prevent your twists from feeling limp and lifeless.

Now, you’re ready to twist.

Step 1:
Divide your hair into four to six sections, depending on its thickness—each section should be manageable enough to hold in one hand. Secure the sections with scrunchies, leaving one section loose to work with.

Step 2:
From the loose section, grab a smaller piece of hair, about the width of a pencil. Apply a pea-sized amount of braiding gel to this segment, which helps define the section and makes the part on your scalp look neater.

Step 3:
Smooth a pea-sized amount of twisting cream or gel along the length of the small section. Sabrina Rowe Holdsworth recommends using Camille Rose Naturals Almond Jai Twisting Butter for its soft hold and curl definition.

Step 4:
Split this small section into two even parts and begin twisting them together, wrapping one strand over the other in a clockwise motion. Continue twisting down to the very ends of the hair.

Step 5:
To secure the twist, twirl the ends around your finger, using the same motion you would for a finger coil. Repeat this process for each section of hair until your entire head is complete.

HOW LONG DO MINI TWISTS LAST?

Mini twists can last up to four weeks, but after that, they may start to mat and tangle, eventually resembling locs, explains Jamila Powell, a Florida-based hairstylist and founder of the hair-care brand Naturally Drenched. If you plan to keep your mini twists for a while, there’s good news: you can still wash them. Powell recommends diluting two to three tablespoons of shampoo in an empty nozzle bottle with water. “Apply the mixture to your twists and scalp, gently massaging your scalp with your fingertips before rinsing thoroughly,” she advises. Repeat the process with conditioner, and then dry your hair with a microfiber towel, which is gentler on your hair and absorbs more water. For faster drying, you can use a blow dryer.

Regardless of how long you keep your mini twists, it’s essential to maintain moisture. Powell suggests spritzing a hydrating mist (like Pattern Hydrating Hair Mist) two to three times a week and using a hair oil to lock in that moisture.

DO MINI TWISTS HELP GROW OUT YOUR HAIR? 

Stylists agree that mini twists, like many protective styles, can support hair growth and length retention. “This is because your hair isn’t subjected to daily manipulation,” explains Jamila Powell.

Board-certified dermatologist and licensed cosmetologist Yolanda Lenzy, MD, clarifies that while hairstyles themselves won’t accelerate hair growth—since nothing can speed up your natural growth rate—keeping your hair in a protective style can help prevent excess breakage. She notes that “mini twists, especially without added extensions, can be a good low-tension option for those looking to promote healthy hair.”

MINI TWIST INSPIRATION

Style mini twists your way. Choose a middle or side part, a pixie or bob, and add accessories for a personalized look.

LONG MINI TWISTS 

MINI TWIST PUFF 

MINI TWIST SPACE BUNS

HALF UP MINI TWISTS 

MINI TWIST PIXIE 

BOHEMIAN BRAIDS WITH CURLS: 27 STUNNING IDEAS FOR YOUR NEW HAIR

Braids are a versatile and stylish hairstyle on their own. But what if you could elevate them even further by incorporating curls? Adding curls to your braids can create a truly captivating and unique look, transforming your hairstyle from ordinary to extraordinary.

Curls bring a playful and fun vibe to any hairstyle, and when combined with braids, they can create a jaw-dropping effect. Whether you’re looking for a minimalist or a more dramatic look, this article features a curated collection of stunning braids with curls to inspire you.

Before we dive into the hairstyles, let’s explore how to achieve these beautiful curls and braids.

HOW TO ACHIEVE BRAIDS WITH CURLS

Braided curls offer a versatile and visually appealing hairstyle. They can be created by curling sections of the braids, such as the ends, middle, or top. Alternatively, you can add pre-curled strands to the braids for a dramatic effect.

Experiment with different techniques and curl sizes to find the perfect braided curls for your style. And they’re achieved through different methods which are:

WITH HAIR ROLLERS AND HOT WATER

Hair rollers are versatile tools used to create a variety of curls. To use them on braids, simply wrap individual braids around the roller and dip it in hot water for a few seconds. Repeat for all braids. Once cooled, gently remove the braids from the rollers using a towel.

Remember, hair rollers come in different sizes and types, each producing unique curl patterns. Smaller rollers create tighter curls, while larger ones result in looser waves. Choose the roller size that best suits your desired hairstyle.

WITH A CURLING IRON

To achieve loose, bouncy waves in human hair extensions, gently wrap the desired sections of your braids around a curling iron. Avoid using a curling iron on synthetic hair, as it can melt or burn the material. After a few seconds, carefully release the curled sections for a natural, wavy look.

WITH THREAD, STRING, OR YARN

For a quick and easy alternative to hair rollers, use thread, yarn, or string to create temporary curls. Tie the desired sections of your braids with the string, then gently push the braids up from the ends to the tied section. Secure the string with a knot at the ends of the braids.

Dip the tied braids in hot water for a few seconds, then remove and cut away the straight ends that weren’t tied. Once the curls have set, carefully untie or cut off the string.

CURL BY BRAIDING YOUR BRAIDS

For a unique approach to curly braids, weave several individual braids together into a larger braid, starting from the desired location for the curls. Dip the large braid in hot water for a few seconds, then remove and pat dry with a towel.

When you loosen the large braid, you’ll reveal loose, wavy curls.

USE PRE-CURLED HAIR EXTENSIONS

For a goddess or boho braid hairstyle, incorporate pre-curled braids into the braiding process to create a stunning, glamorous look.

TYPES OF CURLS WITH BRAIDS

COI LERAY BRAIDS

Jumbo braids with curly ends are also known as goddess braids. They typically feature 16 medium-length knotless box braids with bouncy curls and laid edges. However, you can customize this style by changing the number of braids or experimenting with different curl patterns.

BOHEMIAN BRAIDS

Goddess braids are characterized by curly ends or loose, wavy strands incorporated into the braids, creating a soft, voluminous look. The curls are often left unfinished, with the hairstylist braiding only the initial inches and leaving the remaining length curly.

SMALL BRAIDS WITH CURLS

For a stylish twist on thin braids, add definition by curling the tips. This simple touch can elevate your hairstyle.

JUMBO BRAIDS WITH CURLS

Whether you prefer knotless or traditional box braids, adding curls to thick braids can create a stunning and eye-catching look. The combination of large braids and curls is a bold and beautiful choice.

WATERMELON BRAIDS

This style involves braiding your hair with extensions into loose braids, then twisting two individual braids together. Dip the twisted braids in hot water to create wavy curls.

PASSION TWISTS

This hairstyle features curly twists created using synthetic hair extensions. The use of wavy or curly extensions adds a textured and voluminous look, making these twists particularly eye-catching.

STITCH BRAIDS WITH CURLS

This hairstyle features cornrows with deliberate spaces and sectioned lines, allowing you to incorporate extensions into each braid. For an added touch, attach curls to the tips or inside the braids to enhance their appearance.

UPDO WITH CURLS

Shuku hairstyles, created using the Ghana weaving or stitch technique, look stunning with curls. This style is perfect for showcasing your forehead while pulling your hair back.

CORNROWS WITH CURLS

All-back cornrows are a versatile style that looks fantastic with curls. Whether you prefer long or short cornrows, this combination offers a stylish and eye-catching look.

FULANI BRAIDS WITH CURLS

Fulani braids are a unique hairstyle featuring updo or all-back cornrows that are intricately carved into curved patterns on the scalp. Box braids drape down the sides of the head, completing the distinctive look.

BUTTERFLY BRAIDS

These braids feature natural curls achieved by incorporating free water wave braiding hair into the strands. This creates a fluffy, voluminous look. They are essentially African braids with small curls or waves around each individual braid.

BRAIDS WITH CURLS ARE WORTH THE HYPE

These braids are all the rage for a reason! They’re versatile and customizable, allowing you to wear them long or short with any hair extension color. For a quick and easy option, try a pre-made wig.

Need more inspiration? Here are some popular styles to try: