Be Whole

One of my go-to protective styles since I’d began my natural hair journey, is the twist out. It’s low maintenance and lasts me up to 5 days.

It’s also a style that you can try if you’re transitioning because having two different hair textures to style can be extremely frustrating. And it’s the main reason why I’d finally big chopped, two years ago.

Take a look at this video of my twist out tutorial:

For your twist out, you’ll need:

• A wide tooth comb for sectioning
• 4 hair ties or hair grips
• A spray bottle with water
• A preferred oil for your hair ( I use olive oil)
• Leave-in conditioner
• Styling product (gel or cream)

How to apply your products:

1. I start by sectioning my freshly washed, damp hair into four paths and using my hair ties (made from stockings) to tie my hair. I don’t mess around with elastic bands covered in cotton because my hair snatches those in three uses.
2. Next, I apply my leave-in conditioner to each section, and tie it back into buns to hold the moisture. Apply the product from ends to root because the ends are the oldest and driest part of your hair – in need of the most moisture.
3. After applying the leave-in conditioner, I apply extra virgin olive oil. I prefer olive oil because it absorbs easily and doesn’t leave a greasy residue. I start at the end and work the oil through my hair from the root.
4. Lastly, apply your styling product, using the same method – starting at the ends and then working the product through your hair from the root.

Getting the twists right

Start by taking two sections of hair  – twist the first piece of hair (whichever one you choose) over the other section, ensuring that the original sides are always facing you . It’s like a u-turn. Twist both sections at the same time in opposite directions. Each hair strand must return to its original position.

Tip: Add some more product to the ends of our hair if it’s needed and finger curl so it doesn’t untie.

If your hair starts to dry, spritz it damp using your  spray bottle of water.

I make about 20 twists which takes me just over an hour. The smaller sections  of hair you use, the smaller your twists will be.

To dry – I air-dry, preferably overnight. But if I’m not able to air-dry my hair, I’ll usually diffuse my hair with a hair dryer, using medium heat.

And that’s it.

Ensure that your hair has completely dried before untying your twists to avoid frizz.

Finally, I add some olive oil to my hands before untying the  twists, which reduces frizz and gives added shine to my hair.

Did you enjoy this video tutorial? I’d love to hear from you. Leave me a comment in the space below or email me directly to robyn@bewhole.co.za

Connect with me Instagram: @robynruththomas