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
The 18 best heat protectant sprays and creams to protect hair
Have you ever wondered how to shield your hair from the relentless heat of styling tools without compromising its health and vibrancy? In a world where sleek and stylish hair is often achieved with the help of heated tools, the importance of safeguarding your locks cannot be overstated. That’s where the magic of heat protectant sprays and creams comes into play.
Join with us on a journey to find innovative products designed to protect your hair from the heat, keeping it strong and lively. So, scroll down and check out 18 best heat protectant sprays and creams that keep your hair resilient and vibrant, maintaining that modern and elegant look.
How does heat protectant work?
Heat protectants for hair establish a protective barrier around the hair cuticle, safeguarding it from potential damage caused by various harmful factors. Components like panthenol and propylene glycol, found in these products, amplify their efficacy when exposed to direct high heat. This ensures optimal moisture retention and averts frizz. Over time, these protectants shield the hair from the adverse effects of high-temperature styling tools, preserving a smooth and glossy appearance.
What should you look for in a heat protectant?
When choosing a heat protectant, there are several factors to consider to safeguard your hair from heat damage. Here are some key aspects to look for:
Heat protection level: The heat protection level of a heat protectant is determined by its ability to withstand high temperatures without breaking down. Jonathan Colombini, the creative director of style and color at L’Oréal Paris, suggests checking for explicit mentions of a product’s heat-protecting properties. Additionally, he recommends adhering to guidelines that guarantee protection at temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Hair type: Different hair types require different formulations. Becca Nilsson, the director of artist training at Blo Blow Dry Bar, provides tailored insights based on individual hair types. For those with fine, thin hair, she advises opting for a lightweight heat protectant to prevent excessive product buildup. Conversely, individuals with thick hair may find an oil-based conditioner beneficial for effective heat protection.
Ingredients: The ingredients in a heat protectant can play a role in its effectiveness. Look for heat protectants that contain natural ingredients, such as keratin, argan oil, or coconut oil. These ingredients can help to protect your hair from damage and add shine.
To assist you in discovering top-notch heat protection products, we consulted stylists for their recommended picks, including their favorite tried-and-tested heat protection creams and sprays. We also thoroughly scoured leading retailers to compile a list of the highest-rated and best-reviewed options, which you can explore below.
Our top picks
Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant
Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant is a must-have for hair care. It does more than just protect your hair from heat damage. With argan oil and vitamins, this lightweight spray shields your hair during heat styling and adds a luxurious shine. It’s not greasy, so your hair stays light and residue-free. Whether you’re using a flat iron, curling wand, or blow dryer, it acts as a reliable barrier, even guarding color-treated hair from the sun. The pleasant Moroccanoil scent enhances your styling experience, ensuring your locks stay healthy and vibrant. Although your hair may initially feel a bit stiff after applying, this sensation fades after brushing.
Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum
Olaplex No. 9 Bond Nourishing Hair Serum is a revolutionary product designed to transform and nourish your hair. This cutting-edge serum is part of the Olaplex professional hair care line, known for its innovative approach to repairing and maintaining hair health. No. 9 Bond is formulated with a proprietary blend of ingredients that work to strengthen, hydrate, and protect the hair’s bonds. Whether used as a standalone treatment or combined with other Olaplex products, this serum helps reduce breakage, enhance shine, and improve overall hair texture. It is particularly beneficial for those with damaged or color-treated hair, providing a luxurious and effective solution for achieving healthier, more resilient strands. However, for those with sensitive noses, this scent can be overwhelming.
Living Proof Restore Perfecting Spray
This innovative spray is specifically crafted to address the challenges of frizz, offering a lightweight and effective solution for smoother, more manageable locks. Formulated by Living Proof, a brand renowned for its scientific approach to hair care, this spray combines advanced hair care technology with nourishing ingredients. It works to detangle, condition, and protect hair, while also enhancing its natural shine. The Restore Perfecting Spray is particularly effective for individuals with frizzy hair, helping to combat humidity-induced frizz and leaving hair noticeably softer. The drawback of this product is its relatively high price.
Briogeo Farewell Frizz
Briogeo Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant Crème is a game-changer for individuals with thinning hair seeking the perfect blow-dry while ensuring optimal protection. This lightweight yet powerful cream is meticulously crafted by Briogeo, a brand known for its clean and naturally derived formula. Specifically designed for fine hair, the cream provides heat protection, preventing damage caused by styling tools while enhancing the overall hair-drying experience. The unique blend of ingredients helps to add volume, reduce frizz, and deliver a smooth, shiny look without weighing down delicate strands. With a commitment to hair quality and health, Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant becomes an essential product for those with thinning hair who want salon-worthy volume. It is important to note that excessive application may result in a sensation of heaviness in the hair.
Chi Total Protect
Elevate your hair care routine with this powerhouse product, designed to keep thick hair looking and feeling its best. Created by Chi, a brand synonymous with innovation in hair care, Total Protect offers a potent blend of ingredients to shield thick strands from the rigors of styling and environmental stressors. Whether it’s heat protection, moisture retention, or overall hair health, Chi Total Protect excels in providing a holistic solution. Due to its creamy consistency, achieving even coverage on dry hair can be a bit challenging.
Kérastase Blond Absolu Heat Protecting Serum
Kérastase Blond Absolu Heat Protecting Serum is a serum for those with color-treated hair, especially blondes. This product is tailored to meet the specific needs of colored locks, offering unparalleled heat protection while preserving the vibrancy of blonde shades. Developed by Kérastase, a brand synonymous with luxury and innovation in hair care, this serum is a must-have for anyone seeking to safeguard their color investment. Its lightweight formula not only shields hair from heat damage during styling but also imparts a luminous shine and smooth texture. However at first, there’s a slight stickiness on the strands, but it vanishes once fully absorbed.
Bumble and bumble Bb.Illuminated Blonde Purple Leave In Spray
Bumble and bumble Bb.Illuminated Blonde Purple Leave In Spray is the optimal choice for colored hair. Specially crafted to meet the specific needs of bleached strands, this no-rinse spray is a game-changer in the world of hair care. Celebrated for its innovative products, it not only diminishes color dullness and enhances brightness for bleached hair but also helps maintain the cool undertones of blonde shades while providing nourishment and moisture. Some comments indicate that this product has the potential to cause irritation.
Shu Uemura Netsu Design Blow Dry Cream
This styling product is specifically for blow-drying, but tested on hot tools reveals its effectiveness, especially in safeguarding hair strands from high temperatures up to 450°F. Overall, this heat protectant is easy to apply, and the creamy formula blends well into strands for even coverage. It absorbs quickly, providing an undetectable amount of hydration. In addition to its hydrating and heat-protecting properties, the cream helps reduce frizz and imparts an overall shine. Its light scent, not too strong and dissipating quickly, adds to its appeal. This product is exclusively designed for use on damp hair, making it unsuitable for dry strands.
Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
Crafted to offer heat protection up to 450°F, this fairy elixir features advanced heat-activated polymer technology for strand-smoothing effects. While one tester observed a reduction in flyaways post-styling, some users reported minimal distinction between applying the balm and not using it. Nevertheless, its efficient application means a little goes a long way, suggesting prolonged usage from a single bottle. The Oribe heat protectant may appear a bit expensive, priced at approximately $45 for 3.4 ounces.
Tresemmé Heat Tamer Spray
TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray provides effective protection against the heat from flat irons and curling irons. By creating a shield against heat and friction, it leaves hair shiny and irresistibly soft. This heat protectant spray not only safeguards your hair but also enhances its flexibility for easy restyling. Activated by heat, it helps defend against styling damage and maintains your desired hair shape. You can enjoy the benefits of a professional, affordable salon-quality heat protectant without the hefty salon price tag. A drawback of this product is its less durable nozzle, which tends to break easily!
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat & UV Protective Primer
With a blend of coconut, argan, grapeseed, macadamia nut, sweet almond, and safflower oils, Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Thermal & UV Protective Primer delivers rich nourishment and provides volume and radiant shine. With a remarkable 50% reduction in frizz, this product comes in a generous 8.5-ounce bottle, offering significant value in the price around $32. In addition to hydrating dry strands and protecting against damage from hot tools, this hair primer also provides a conditioner-like feel, leaving hair noticeably softer and smoother. However, it should be noted that it contains many oil-based ingredients, so it is not ideal for oily or thin hair.
BondiBoost Prep & Protect Hair Primer
Designed for a variety of hair types, this product stands out thanks to its exclusively plant-based and vegan ingredients. It contains moisturizing elements such as aloe vera and meadowfoam seed oil to infuse moisture and amaranth seed extract to fortify hair against breakage. While it’s generally gentle and suitable for most people, some feedback suggests it may lack the moisture needed for curly hair. However, its adaptability and use of natural, plant-based ingredients make it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and cruelty-free hair care solution.
Redken Quick Blowout Heat Protectant Spray
Since incorporating this product into their hair care routine, many people have noticed a marked improvement in their dry and frizzy hair. The product not only brings exceptional value compared to the price but also makes a difference thanks to its outstanding quality, providing a gentle and comfortable feeling to the hair. Notably, users observed a significant reduction in hair breakage, making it an important addition to their hair care regimen. There are a lot of positive reviews for this product. The cost seems a bit high, but the long-term benefits and positive impact on hair health make it a worthwhile investment for many.
Strength Cure Miracle Filler is designed for those with compromised, color-treated hair, providing a heat protectant that strengthens, repairs, and shields against heat damage. Infused with xylose, coriander oil, and chamomile, this formula offers comprehensive protection and nourishment. Xylose guards against heat styling, coriander oil imparts strength, and chamomile moisturizes. This daily leave-in blow dry lotion fortifies and hydrates while acting as a barrier against styling and future harm. Although praised for its benefits, there are some reports of it causing stickiness and lacking smoothness in the hair.
Verb Glossy Shine Spray with Heat Protection
This versatile moisturizing spray is appropriate for all hair types that need heat protection or extra shine. It’s praised for being an effective heat protectant with a residue-free formula. Many customers expressed surprise at its effectiveness on both thick and fine hair, accompanied by a clean and pleasant fragrance. They also reported that their hair felt softer after styling, praising it as a great solution without the heaviness of similar products. The general consensus is that this hairspray is truly amazing and worth repurchasing. Only a few people who bought it did not like the scent and said it was sticky.
Unite Hair 7Seconds Glossing Spray
The Unite Hair 7Seconds Glossing Spray provides a multitude of benefits for your hair care routine. Firstly, it offers instant shine, imparting a glossy and radiant finish to your locks in a matter of seconds. This quick and effective glossing action enhances the overall appearance of your hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant. Additionally, the spray acts as a detangler, making it easier to manage and style your hair by reducing knots and snarls. The formulation is lightweight, ensuring that your hair maintains a natural feel without weighing it down. Furthermore, the 7Seconds Glossing Spray contains protective elements that help shield your hair from environmental factors and heat styling damage.Some people say the product can make hair sticky, but it’s important to use the right amount, not too much.
Mizani Heat Screen Hair Protectant Spray
One study published in the International Journal of Trichology, found that Mizani Heat Screen Protective Spray was effective at protecting curly hair from heat damage up to 450°F. The study also concluded that Mizani Heat Screen Protective Spray helped to maintain curl definition and reduce breakage. It contains rose water that helps control frizz and make hair softer. People really like this spray because it provides a lot of benefits to the hair but doesn’t make it feel too oily or heavy. It makes curls smooth and soft with a light feeling. We really enjoy the smell, and it can be like a perfume for your hair, but it might be overwhelming for some people who don’t appreciate strong scents.
Gisou Heat Protecting Spray
Choosing the right hair product for thin hair can be tricky because you want it to make your hair look good without making it heavy. That’s where Gisou Heat Protecting Spray comes in—it’s a great choice for people with thin hair. This spray keeps your hair safe from high heat, up to 446°F, and it has been propolis to make your hair strong and prevent it from breaking. When we tried it out, the best part was the spray cap. It spreads the product evenly on your hair, making it easy to use. Besides being easy to use, the spray is also really light, making our hair feel smooth and weightless, like there’s nothing on it.. One thing to note is that it has a honey-like smell, which some people might not prefer.
Conclusion
The exploration of the 18 best heat protectant sprays and creams has provided valuable insights into an essential aspect of hair care. Recognizing the importance of shielding hair from high temperatures, these products offer a diverse range of formulations and benefits, from lightweight solutions suitable for fine hair to those enriched with nourishing ingredients for added care. The reviews highlight the effectiveness, user-friendliness, and unique features of each product, assisting consumers in making informed choices based on their specific hair needs and preferences. Ultimately, incorporating a high-quality heat protectant into one’s hair care routine is a proactive step toward maintaining healthy, vibrant hair while enjoying the freedom to style without compromising its integrity.
