Senegalese Twist Locs

Halle Bailey is the queen of transforming her long locs. Like magic, she uses extra twisting hair to create these jumbo twists. Curious about what hair to use? “I recommend using lightweight, synthetic hair due to its smooth texture and natural look. For a more natural look and feel, human hair extensions can be used also, but it requires more maintenance to keep the hair style looking fresh,” explains cosmetologist Mika Smith.

Medium Twists with Baby Hairs

Super skinny Senegalese twists are very common to see, but if you’re willing to be a little different, you can save styling time and steal the show with medium-sized twists. And don’t forget: Smoothing down that baby hair is a must with this look. And when you’re ready to freshen up your scalp between shampoos, Smith says, “Use a braid spray, dry shampoo, and/or a product used for refreshing the scalp to absorb excess oil and keep the scalp feeling fresh.”

Side Part

We love the look of ultra-thick twists with a dramatic side part. The part adds further volume to the roots, and the edges are kept well-styled for a modern look.

Adorned Twists

Beads and charms aren’t just for braids—they work for twists, too. Just check out Kerry Washington’s red-carpet-ready adornments if you need proof.

Center Part

It doesn’t get much more classic than a center part, which helps these twists remain in focus. Here, hair is kept long and brushed back over the shoulders so the strands are sleek and shiny.

If you’re curious about how long you can keep in your twists, Smith tells us that your style will last about six to eight weeks.

Big Bun

Having a head full of chunky Senegalese twists can be a lot. That’s why we won’t blame you for wanting to throw your hair up in a high bun. Try leaving a strand or two out of your topknot to frame your face and add dimension to your look.

Half-Up, Half-Down Bun

This half-up, half-down bun sees twists spaced far apart. The result: a fun contrast between the top of the head and the bottom, where two-toned twists are kept long.

Long With Dip-Dyed Curls

This look is all about contrast. Here, thin twists cascade down past the waits, ending in dip-dyed, copper-hued waves.

Multicolored

Your Senegalese twists don’t have to be one hue. You can play around with as many shades as you want. We love this trifecta of black, brown, and blonde. It has so much dimension!

ANatural

Whether you have long natural hair or you want installed extensions that look as natural as possible, Senegalese twists will look amazing. The key to making this style last lies in the thin, twisted sections. And if you really want this style to appear effortless, don’t make your baby hairs look overdone. To help keep your twists hydrated, hairstylist Michelle O’Connor suggests using a lightweight oil every so often.

Twisted Updo

If you’re not afraid of a little sculptural updo moment, you should take a page of out Lupita Nyong’o’s book and style your twists into one giant twist. It’s even better if you leave the remaining twists in a shoulder-grazing style—it adds a low-key edge.

Gray Ombré

Who doesn’t like a dramatic ombré? This unique black to gray style is giving us life. Turn to protective oils—which serve as a barrier around the hair shaft—to coat the ends and keep the twists well-moisturized.

Middle Part

They say beauty is symmetry, and that must be why middle-parted hairstyles are so popular. It looks great with these giant Senegalese twists, especially when the hair is slightly slicked back like Yara Shahidi here.

Purple Twists

If you have a deeper skin tone, a purple or violet shade will always look good on you.

Accessorized to the Max

Having a distinct protective style like Senegalese twists doesn’t mean you can’t wear a fashionable hat. The straw fedora looks great alongside Brittne Babe’s varied metallic braid charms and decorative twine. In this case, less isn’t more; more is more.

Simple Half-Up, Half-Down

Sometimes simplicity is the best option. That’s very well the case with these medium-sized Senegalese twists that are in a half-up, half-down style. It looks great with hoop earrings.

If you’re thinking about getting twists or doing them yourself, Smith says to make sure your hair is cleansed and conditioned to ensure the moisturized and free of buildup. “The Aunt Jackie’s Oh So Clean Shampoo and In Control Conditioner are great options because they will cleanse hair while adding moisture your hair needs to maintain a long-lasting style like Senegalese twists,” she adds.

Bandana and Curls

Show a little sass by pairing your Senegalese twists with a bold patterned bandana. The cowrie shell accents and loosely curled tendrils add a sweet pan-African feel to the overall look.

Shoulder Length

Natural Senegalese twists look fantastic with a shoulder blade-grazing length. For a romantic aesthetic, part your hair in a way that allows your twists to be whimsically side-swept. If your hair is super curly or coily, Smith recommends stretching the hair using a blow dryer on a low setting to make the twisting process easier.

Curly Ends

Having tight twists doesn’t mean you can’t have curly ends for a spring effect. O’Connor recommends tying down your twists at night to help reduce the frizz and friction.

Rapunzel Twists

Do you have a flair for theatrics? Do you like long locks? Why not go for Rapunzel-length twists like Ciara?

Hip Length

Love length but don’t want to go for an ankle-grazing Rapunzel look? Go halfway and choose hip-length Senegalese twists. Smaller twists look refined and highlight your length. For added shine, O’Connor recommends sleeping on a silk pillowcase.

Short Bob

Senegalese twists can be worn 100 different ways from funky buns to puffed-out twists. Perfect for a vacation look, Amanda Gorman’s short bob style keeps the hair off of your neck and back, so you don’t have to worry about the heat.

Short Senegalese Twists

If heavier styles like jumbo or extra long twists intimidate you, never fear. Short, spiky twists like the ones modeled on Nyong’o are simple, chic, and easier to hold up.

Micro Twists

We’ve covered jumbo twists, extra long twists, accessorized twists, and more, but not every type of Senegalese twist has to be oversized. Not to be confused with spring twists, Senegalese twists can be mini or even micro. Smith recommends that after twisting your hair, continue a scalp care routine with a light oil to moisture the scalp and prevent itchiness and/or dryness.

Curved Part

While it is fun to experiment with fancy accessories, sometimes the chicest changes are the easiest ones like shifting your part to a new spot—and adding some pretty curvature.