Senegalese Twists 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Appointment
Trust me: You're going to love this look.
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I don't think Senegalese twists get enough attention, TBH. They're usually overshadowed by box braids, but I lowkey think this style is way cooler. It's just one of those looks that checks off all the boxes: eye-catching, low-maintenance, and you won't see every single girl on your IG feed rocking them. The twists are created with smooth braiding hair using the two-strand method, which is exactly what it sounds like—two strands of hair are wrapped around each other to create the look. Easy enough, right?
If you're looking for a sign to switch things up and try out this style, this is it. And don't worry—I've got you covered if you're new to twists. I reached out to braider Stasha Harris to answer some questions about getting Senegalese twists, and I rounded up 20 of the cutest looks to try out right now. So keep reading and start planning your next look.
Are Senegalese twists bad for your hair?
Nope, not it they're installed correctly. Senegalese twists are a protective style, which means that they protect your hair from, well, you. By forcing you to pause on things like heat styling and excessive brushing, protective styles are able to promote healthy hair growth. But according to Harris, going to a stylist who secures the twists way too tightly on your scalp can put some major stress on your natural hair and even lead to breakage. So if anything feels super uncomfortable during the twisting process, speak up!
How do you keep your Senegalese twists from frizzing?
If you want to keep those pesky flyaways at bay, taking good care of your twists is a must, says Harris. She recommends wrapping your twists with a satin scarf or bonnet to keep your hair smooth. Also, when you wash your twists, you need to make sure you use a hooded dryer or a hair dryer so that they dry completely. If you don't, it's basically a recipe for frizz, says Harris. And finally, you want to work a hydrating oil through your twists on a daily basis to keep them nice and moisturized.
How much does it costs to get Senegalese twists?
This depends on several factors (location, the skill level of your stylist, how long you want your twists to be, etc.), but according to Harris, Senegalese twists will typically run you at least $100. Which isn't too bad, IMO—especially since you're getting such a solid look.
Now that we've covered all the basics, I pulled together 20 Senegalese twist ideas to provide some inspo for your next hair appointment. Get ready to screenshot your favorite looks.
These Senegalese Twists With Gold Cuffs
Level up your style and accessorize your look by placing a few gold cuffs on your Senegalese twists.
This Senegalese Twist Top Bun
Switch up your look and throw your Senegalese twists into a high top bun—don't forget to secure the style with bobby pins.
These Gray Ombré Senegalese Twists
These Light Brown Senegalese Twists
IMO, light brown is the perfect shade for Senegalese twists. It's not basic (like black) and it's not too over-the-top (like a super-bold color). Don’t forget to sleep on a silk pillowcase or wear a silk scarf to bed if you want your braids to last as long as possible.
These Long Senegalese Twists
A dope way to rock Senegalese twists? Keep it simple color-wise and go as long as possible—like Rapunzel long. Sweep on a lightweight edge control gel to keep your baby hairs in place.
These Green and Black Senegalese Twists
Feeling bold? You should def opt for these green and black Senegalese twists. Keep your twists looking fresh by regularly spritzing on a leave-in conditioner spray.
These Blonde Senegalese Twists
Blondes have more fun, am I right? Grab a pack of blonde braiding hair and have your stylists feed it into your twists.
These Purple Senegalese Twists
This purple shade is bound to turn heads. Add even more dimension to your look by tying metallic string around your Senegalese twists.
These Micro Senegalese Twists
These micro Senegalese twists will have you in the salon chair for hours, but trust me, they're worth the time. Give them a cool multi-toned look by feeding in black, brown, and blond braiding hair.
These Shoulder-Length Senegalese Twists
Keep it light and fresh by opting for shoulder-length Senegalese twists. Work in a scalp oil every morning to make sure your natural hair stays hydrated.
These Half-Up, Half-Down Senegalese Twists
Work an updo into your style rotation by wearing your Senegalese twists in this half-up, half-down look. Boost the hydration levels of your ends by massaging in a lightweight hair oil.
These Red Senegalese Twists
These red Senegalese twists aren't just show stopping—they're also super cute. Don't forget to spritz your braids with a shine spray so they don’t look dull.
These Senegalese Twists With Gold Cords
Wrapping gold cords around your Senegalese twists is an easy way to change things up without taking out your hair.
These Dark Brown Senegalese Twists
Don't want to do regular ol' black twists? Choose a dark brown shade instead for your Senegalese twists to mix things up. Keep your parts slick and smooth by using a styling gel to lay them flat.
These Senegalese Twists With Beads
Add beads onto the ends of your Senegalese twists for some fun hair jewelry.
These Jumbo Senegalese Twists
Jumbo Senegalese twists are perfect if you want to try the style without any of the scalp stress that comes with smaller twists. Start your day by smoothing down any flyaways with a glossing mist.
These Platinum Blonde Senegalese Twists
Go full-out platinum with these Senegalese twists. Before your hair appointment, prep with a moisturizing butter to keep it healthy and hydrated.
These Blonde Ombré Senegalese Twists
Take your Senegalese twists from dark at the roots to light at the ends for an ombré finish. Freshen up your braids with a no-rinse cleanser when you’re in-between washes.
These Senegalese Twists With Curly Ends
Give your Senegalese twists a boho vibe by leaving the ends curly and slightly undone. Be sure to use a scalp treatment when your hair’s braided up to make sure it doesn’t get irritated.
These Blue Senegalese Twists
Want another vibrant color option? Try out these blue Senegalese twists. Wrap a cute scarf around your hair as a cute accessory on the days when you don't feel like laying your edges.
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