Flawless Senegalese Twists: Beginner's Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Prepping the Hair
3. Choosing the Right Hair Extensions
4. Sectioning the Hair
5. Feathering the Hair
6. Creating Skinny Ends
7. Starting the Senegalese Twist
8. Twisting Techniques
9. Preventing Hair Breakage
10. Finishing Touches
11. Styling and Maintenance Tips

Introduction

Welcome back to my channel! In today's video, I will be showing you how I achieve the perfect Senegalese twists. If you've been wanting to try this trendy hairstyle, then this tutorial is for you. I'll be sharing all my tips and tricks to make the process easier and ensure that your twists turn out seamless and beautiful. So, let's jump right into it!

Prepping the Hair

Before starting the Senegalese twist process, it's important to ensure that your hair is clean and moisturized. Start by washing and conditioning your hair using your preferred products. Once your hair is dry, apply a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing cream to keep your hair hydrated throughout the styling process. This step is essential in preventing your hair from drying out and becoming brittle.

Choosing the Right Hair Extensions

The type of hair extensions you choose will greatly impact the final result of your Senegalese twists. There are various options available, including synthetic hair and human hair. Synthetic hair is more affordable and readily available, but it may not blend as seamlessly with your natural hair. On the other hand, human hair extensions offer a more natural look and feel, but they can be more expensive.

Consider the length and thickness of the hair extensions as well. Longer and thicker extensions will create more dramatic and voluminous twists, while shorter and thinner extensions will result in a more subtle look. Additionally, choose extensions that closely match the color of your natural hair or opt for highlights or ombre effects for a bolder look.

Sectioning the Hair

To make the twisting process easier and more organized, it's important to section your hair beforehand. Use a tail comb to create small, neat sections throughout your hair. Start by parting your hair vertically from the front to the back, dividing it into two equal sections. Then, create horizontal partings from ear to ear, creating smaller sections that are easier to work with.

Secure each section with a hair clip or hair elastic to keep them separate and prevent them from tangling while you work on other sections. By sectioning your hair, you'll have better control and visibility during the twisting process, ensuring that each twist is uniform and neatly placed.

Feathering the Hair

Feathering the hair is a technique used to create a tapered effect at the ends of the twists. It gives a more polished and professional look to the finished style. To feather the hair, take a small section of the extension hair and gently run your fingers down the length to separate the strands. This will create a tapered end, similar to a feather.

Feathering the hair is especially important if you prefer a more natural-looking twist, as it blends the extensions with your natural hair seamlessly. Repeat this process for each section of hair, making sure all the extensions are evenly feathered.

Creating Skinny Ends

To achieve the desired skinny ends for your Senegalese twists, you will need to manipulate the extension hair. Take a small section of the extension hair and pinch the top between your fingers. Then, twist your fingers down the length of the hair, creating a tight, skinny tail-like end.

The skinny ends not only add a unique touch to the twists but also make it easier to secure the twists without them unraveling. It also provides a more seamless finish as these ends will be tucked inside the twists, preventing any exposed hair.

Starting the Senegalese Twist

Now that your hair is prepped and sectioned, it's time to start the Senegalese twist. Begin by taking a small section of your natural hair as the third strand and combining it with two strands of extension hair. Braid the strands together once, twice, three times, and on the fourth braid, tuck your natural hair into the extension hair at the root.

Hold the braid tightly to ensure that it doesn't unravel and start twisting the two strands in opposite directions. Twisting in opposite directions will create a cohesive twist that is less likely to unravel. Continue twisting until you reach the end of the hair, maintaining equal tension and keeping the twist neat and uniform.

Twisting Techniques

When it comes to twisting your hair, there are different techniques you can use to achieve varying results. Some popular techniques include two-strand twists, rope twists, and Senegalese twists. Each technique has its own unique look and requires different methods of twisting.

The Senegalese twist technique is achieved by using Kanekalon or Marley hair extensions and twisting them with your natural hair. This technique creates voluminous twists with a defined curl pattern. Two-strand twists, on the other hand, involve twisting two sections of hair together, creating a more natural and versatile look.

Choose a twisting technique that best suits your desired outcome and experiment with different styles to find the one that suits you best.

Preventing Hair Breakage

One of the main concerns when wearing any protective style is preventing hair breakage, especially around the edges. To minimize the risk of breakage, it is essential to braid the hair instead of twisting it from the root. This technique helps distribute the weight of the hair and reduces tension on the fragile edges.

When braiding the hair, make sure to start with a tight base and gradually loosen the grip as you braid down the length of the hair. This will create a natural-looking transition and provide a more comfortable and secure style. Additionally, taking breaks between styles and giving your hair some rest is crucial to maintain its health and avoid excessive breakage.

Finishing Touches

Once you have completed all the twists, it's time to give your hair a polished and finished look. Take a small amount of coconut oil or your preferred hair oil and gently apply it to your scalp, moisturizing and nourishing it. This step will not only add shine but also keep your hair and scalp healthy throughout the duration of the style.

If desired, you can also shape your baby hairs to frame your face and give your twists a more polished appearance. Use a small brush or toothbrush and some edge control or gel to smooth down your edges and create sleek baby hairs.

Styling and Maintenance Tips

Senegalese twists are a versatile hairstyle that allows for a variety of styling options. You can wear them down, style them in a half-up, half-down look, or even put them into an updo. Experiment with different styles and accessories to personalize your twists and make them your own.

To maintain your Senegalese twists, it is important to keep your scalp clean and moisturized. Use a diluted shampoo or a cleansing spray to cleanse your scalp, being careful not to disturb the twists too much. Additionally, apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing spray to keep your hair and extensions hydrated.

Avoid heavy products or excessive manipulation as they can cause the twists to unravel or become frizzy. Use a lightweight oil or serum to add shine and tame any flyaways.

Highlights

• Senegalese twists are a popular protective hairstyle that offers versatility and a unique look.
• Prepping the hair and choosing the right hair extensions are crucial steps for achieving the perfect Senegalese twists.
• Sectioning the hair allows for better control and organization during the twisting process.
• Feathering the hair and creating skinny ends give a more polished and seamless finish to the twists.
• The twisting technique, such as the Senegalese twist, requires twisting the hair in opposite directions for a cohesive and secure hold.
• Prevent hair breakage by braiding the hair instead of twisting it from the root.
• Finishing touches involve moisturizing the scalp and shaping the baby hairs.
• Senegalese twists offer a variety of styling options and can be maintained with proper care and hydration.

FAQ

Q: Can I do Senegalese twists on natural hair? A: Yes, Senegalese twists can be done on both natural and relaxed hair. Just ensure that your hair is properly moisturized and prepped before starting the twisting process.

Q: How long do Senegalese twists usually last? A: Senegalese twists can last anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on how well they are cared for. Regular maintenance, such as moisturizing the hair and scalp, will help prolong the lifespan of the twists.

Q: Can I wash my hair with Senegalese twists? A: It's generally recommended to avoid washing your hair while wearing Senegalese twists. Instead, use a diluted shampoo or a cleansing spray to cleanse your scalp without disturbing the twists too much.

Q: How can I prevent frizz in my Senegalese twists? A: To prevent frizz, avoid excessive manipulation of the twists and use a lightweight oil or serum to tame any flyaways. Additionally, ensure that your hair is well moisturized to minimize frizz caused by dryness.

Q: Can I sleep with Senegalese twists? A: Yes, you can sleep with Senegalese twists. It's best to tie your hair up with a satin scarf or use a satin pillowcase to reduce friction and maintain the integrity of the twists while you sleep.

Q: How do I remove Senegalese twists? A: To remove Senegalese twists, start by unraveling the twists carefully, making sure not to pull or tug at the hair. Once the twists are undone, gently detangle any remaining tangles using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.