When you think of twists, most think of the popular natural hairstyle called the twist out. You can rock the twists by themselves or form them into countless styles that will give you days and weeks of protective style with minimal hassle. Twist outs and twists are great but if you have fine, low density hair then you may prefer the chunkier look. One means of creating a fuller, protective style is with extensions. Hair extensions have lasted the test of time, and as hairstyles change, extensions continue to be relevant, stylish, and an easy way to spruce up a look. Many women are already aware of waves and braids for hair extensions but twists are making a huge mark in new ways to add hair to gain fullness, length, and versatility.
Now is a great time to try out twists for the first time! There are Marley twists, Nubian twists, Senegalese twists, Havana twist, and kinky twist, and I am sure there will be a new one out in 2015. The styles are growing in numbers and so has the interest over the last few years with no letup in 2015. In the event that you want extension twists, there are a few rules that all twists require for a great look that will not cause breakage or pain.
Do not make them too tight
“Most breakage and traction alopecia is caused by too-tight extensions,” says Diane Bailey, natural hair consultant and celebrity hair stylist. Extensions that are too tight can cause long-term damage or hair loss so worry less about how long the styles lasts and more about removing only your added hair when it is time for them to be removed.
Be gentle with those edges/baby hairs
I jest but want to make it clear perfectly clear just how fragile your edges and nape. Traction alopecia and other forms of hair loss are not always reversible. I promise, your style still looks good with a bit of frizz.
Take a break
Taking out your twists or any extensions to immediately install new ones is a good way to beat up your hair and scalp. They both need a break and that means some TLC with a deep conditioner or hot oil treatment and some air. Give your hair a few weeks off from the extensions or for the very least a weekend.
Unsure? Go to a professional
DIY is running the world but do not feel like you have to do it yourself if you cannot or do not feel confident. You end up with less worry, less hassles, and the assurance that you will have a gorgeous and long-lasting style.
Read more: Ask Dr. Kari: Effective Protective Styling
Regular twisting products work well on extensions
There seems to be some misunderstanding on which products are best for twisting natural hair and blending extensions. Well, it is time to share this nugget of information because some may be wasting precious time and money looking for twisting creams, gels, and butters specifically for extensions. One of the reasons you should use the same products you use on your own hair is because the extensions will be in your hair for weeks or a couple of months. You want a polished result but you also want harmony with your hair and the added hair. Finding products that will give you everything you want may take trial and error, but make sure your hair is happy with it first and the extension hair second.
No one is saying disregard the harmony of your strands and the extension hair together, but the health of your hair should always take precedence. Now, you should find the ones that work the best for you, because it will end up giving you shine, hold, and super smoothness. It might help to twists on your own tresses with the product to see how it works before adding your extensions. Need a little help in that area? No worries, because we picked the top seven we like the best to make your twist extensions perfect!
- Jane Carter Solution Twist & Lock
- As I Am Twist Defining Cream
- Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Girls Baby Girl Curls Curling & Twisting Custard
- MYHoneyChild Twist Out Crème
- Camille Rose Naturals Almond Jai Twisting Butter
- Bee Hold Curly Butter
- Darcy’s Botanicals Coconut Butter Styling Pomade
