Kinky Twists for Natural Hair: 50 Hairstyles Ideas for 2022 (Pictures)

Twists are some of the most beloved African-American hairstyles. Generally, this style is recommended for curly-haired women or anyone with “kinky” hair, hence the kinky twists name.

Even more so, besides being pretty, twists are also one of the best protective hairstyles. They help protect natural hair as it grows out – and they also let you experiment without damaging your tresses.

As far as we’re concerned, kinky twists can make for a playful, charming, and all-around beautiful hairstyle, so see our favorites below to choose yours!

FAQ

First things first: What are kinky twists?

Kinky twists are a traditional African style that dates back to many centuries ago. While their history goes way back, they started trending again in the 2000s.

How do you make kinky twists?

Kinky twists use hair extensions that are installed only after you braid your hair for about an inch from the root. Then, the style continues in a two-strands twist that traditionally ends in curled tips.

Are there any differences between kinky twists, Havana twists, and Marley twists?

Kinky twists differ from Marley twists and their related Havana twists in two major ways: the installation process and the thickness of the strands.

We’ve explained how kinky twists are installed, so know that Marley twists are directly twisted throughout all the length of the hair.

Then, kinky twists tend to be much thinner or at least not be as thick as Marley and Havana twists.

Are there differences or similarities between kinky twists and Senegalese twists?

Senegalese twists and kinky twists are similarly made and styled. The difference between them is in the hair used for making them. Kinky twists use coarser hair that is closer to the natural texture.

I. Kinky Twists by Hair Length

1. Short Kinky Twist Hairstyles

To keep things short and sweet, use the photo above for inspiration. The kinky twists are short, bouncy, and layered for more volume than ever. Kinky twists are generally shoulder-length, but you can keep them shorter too. Either way, the natural look will have an impact.

2. Medium-Sized Kinky Twists

After showcasing small twists, we want to expand and show some over-the-shoulder, medium-sized kinky twists options. This is the ideal approach for women who want a balanced look that is neither too bold or too bland.

3. Long Kinky Twists

Even though you’ll often find kinky twists worn shoulder-length (as usual) or even shorter, their long hair alternative is just as brilliant. Moreover, the longer the twists, the better to show off this intricate technique and have a natural hairstyle.

4. Long Half Curly Twists

To accentuate the idea that twisted braids can be textured, here is an example with curls. While most longer twists are worn in updos, the example above shows how good they can look with the hair left down and free.

5. Jumbo Kinky Twists

Kinky twists are on the smaller side, especially when compared to other types of twists or even braids, they can still be worn jumbo-sized. These are just as classy and stylish and will look just as good.

II. Different Kinky Twist Styles

6. Wavy Twists

Twisted hairstyles can be styled to have different ‘forms’ too. In other words, kinky twists can take a wavy shape, among others. This side-swept hairstyle has beautifully curled locks besides the curled tips. This helps create an overall wavy aspect.

7. Curly Kinky Twist

To make the twists even more textured, surpass wavy and strive for a curly look. See how the kinky braids curl from the lower half of the hairstyle down. In addition, we recommend the chic half-up styling.

8. Afro Kinky Twist

One of the outnumbered benefits of afro-textured curls is that they can easily take an afro form. To put it otherwise, this hair texture can naturally turn into an afro – without much effort. Provided the braids are trimmed in layers, they will be even easier to style.

9. Crochet Kinky Twists

Crochet braiding is actually a technique that rests at the foundation of numerous African hairstyles. In this context, it’s an exceptional way to obtain kinky twists – this rope method results in sleek and stylish braids.

10. Knotless Spring Twists

Although spring twists aren’t exactly synonymous with kinky ones, they fall under the same category of natural kinky twisted styles. With this approach, braids obtain a tight, spring-like shape, hence the name of the hairstyle.

11. Kinky & Flat Twists

If preferred, consider combining different types of twists and even braids. Just one example is mixing kinky twists with flat twists. Start with tightly braided flat twists and end in kinky braids. The outcome is a cute and protective hairstyle for natural hair.

12. Small Kinky Twist

A cool thing about twisted hairstyles is that the braids can be made to have various widths. Just an example is this version of small twists. Generally, the narrower the twists, the more they will resemble individual strands.

13. Cornrow Kinky Twists Styles

In addition to flat twists, cornrows are also a common choice for kinky twist style combos. With a hairstyle like this one, you can recreate the idea of a shaved side and add some spunk to twisted braids.

14. Side Cornrows and Twists

Yet another way to sport cornrows with twisted braids is to have them done just on the side. As opposed to our first example, this hairstyle makes use of just a few thin cornrows that spice up the look in a more subtle fashion.

15. Coiled Curls

When looking for African hairstyles, you will often come across the term “coils”. To put it simply, coils are tightly curled strands or braids that have almost a doll-like aspect to them. These corkscrew beauties are definitely a detail to consider.

16. Micro Kinky Twists

We have covered small kinky twists, but what about the world of micro braids? Just like the name describes, this category of braids and twists is as small as they can get. As a result, they come close to separate strands.

III. Kinky Twists Updos and Styles

17. Loose Twisted Bun

If your twists are set and ready to rock, then also start looking into the different styling ideas to emphasize them. For instance, this loose twisted high bun is ideal for complementing those twists. We warmly encourage the long bangs swept to the side too.

18. Kinky Twist Braids with Headband

What about hair accessories? You might be surprised to find out how much of a difference even such a small detail can make. Take this hairstyle, for example. The twists are indeed eye-catching, but the cherry on top is the gold leaf headband.

19. Half-Up Twist Hairstyles

If you’re not into full updos, you can always experiment with half up half down hairstyles to complement those kinky twists. In the photo above, admire an example of such a gorgeous hairstyle – one that also accentuates the hair color.

20. Casual Half-Up Styles

Speaking of half up hairstyles, here is another example to inspire you. This one has a more casual touch to it and can be worn in more day to day situations. The half-up style uses a ponytail that can be easily be turned into a top knot or bun too.

21. Kinky Twist with Shaved Sides

Jill Scott is an inspiration to us all – from her talent to her personal style. She is an avid supporter of the African hair community and usually sports enchanting hairstyles that embrace her roots. For this look, she opted for kinky twists with a steep undercut and looked stunning with them.

22. Knotless Kinky Twist Updo

As far as styling is in discussion, updos are a must for all gals. In this delightful example, you can observe curly twists wrapped in a loose top bun with a few strands left in the front and styled as bangs. It doubles as a classy and casual hairstyle.

23. Elegant Kinky Twists Hairstyles

On a similar note, this refined hairstyle will certainly work really well for formal events. If you already have your twists in place, pin a few strands to the side to reveal those cheekbones and jawline.

24. Kinky Twists with Metallic Beads

This photo goes to show that playing with different lengths can go a long way for the volume of a braided and twisted hairstyle. However, the main element we want to point out here is the use of metallic beads as hair accessories. The use of beads might be inspired by Fulani braids.

25. Long Pixie Kinky Twist

Long Pixie Kinky Twist Hairstyles — Source

We’re head over heels in love with this hairstyle, so we will point out its various great elements. First up is the pixie haircut with long bangs, the various blonde highlights in brown hair, and the creative undercut.

26. Side Tossed Kinky Twists

In some cases, styling braids can be as simple as 1, 2, 3! Just like in this photo, rake your fingers through the twists and toss them carelessly to the side.

27. Swept Back Half Up Styles

Remember what we said about half up half down braided hairstyles? This example confirms their versatility as it shows an elegant, swept-back approach to the look. We also recommend angling the braids to the side when sweeping them back.

28. Side Swept Kinky Twists

Instead of tossing the braids to the side for a casual look, give them a boost of elegance by sweeping them over one shoulder. It is a classy approach that also emphasizes the tresses.

29. Inverted Bob with Twists

This is the perfect way to showcase twists, sport a bob haircut, and still keep all that natural volume. Inverted or angled bobs are well-trimmed to accentuate the dynamic part of a hairstyle and create volume all around.

30. Kinky Twists for Mature Women

Braided and twisted hairstyles know no age. A style like this one can bring out anyone youthful side, all while remaining perfectly age-appropriate no matter if you are over 40, well past 50, or even the golden 60s.

31. Layered Kinky Twists

This is not the first time we mention layering, but this method deserves all the praise and spotlight. Stacked or layered cutting can make a tremendous difference for twists or almost any hairstyle in general as it helps create and add volume.

32. Knotless Twisted Pompadour

Few updos have the impact of pompadours. This timeless hairstyle has always been a symbol of refinement among women and men alike. It can also be obtained or recreated with all types of hair and even braids and twists.

33. Twisted Bangs

We may not associate bangs with braids all the time, but we guarantee that the combo will be impressive. Particularly if your braids are shorter and layered, the outcome will be fresh, funky, and make for a creative way to rock a twisted hairstyle.

34. Kinky Bob Haircut

When thinking about twisted braids, it is best to keep haircuts in mind too. The sky is the limit when it comes to the length, shape, and texture of the curls. Specific cuts, like the bob, will prove particularly useful.

35. Half Up Kinky Twist Updos

One of the main reasons why half up styles work great with twists is that they are easy to obtain, simple to maintain, and accessible. Pin up a handful of strands for this outgoing look.

36. Mohawk with Kinky Twist Hair Style

While we can’t state that this is a mohawk per se, it’s a spectacular example of a faux hawk with kinky twists. We’re extremely impressed by the vertical braiding in the back and on the sides, as well as the marvelous spring of twists that flow from the top.

37. Sleek Kinky Twist Braids Styles

We frequently pair African hairstyles with the idea of volume, dynamism, and shape. Nonetheless, there are quite a few braided styles that look exceptionally well when left down.

38. Long Side Bangs

We love presenting two “sides” to every hair story, so here is an example that firmly contrasts the aforementioned one. While the example above goes for a straight and graceful approach, this one goes wild with volume and ample side bangs.

39. Kinky Twist Kids

Another aspect of kinky twists that we love is that they are a child-appropriate hairstyle. They will now damage the hair but instead protect it.

IV. Colored Kinky Twists – The Different Ways to Dye Them

40. Copper Twists

How about women who want to bring a splash of color to their hairstyle? There are plenty of shades to experiment with – but start with tones from a natural palette if you don’t want to create a shocking impact. This copper hair color, for instance, is a widespread favorite.

41. Platinum Blonde Twists

In contrast, ladies looking to add bold colors to their twists can take the image above as. an example. Platinum blonde is a popular and stunning shade all on its own but when paired with braids, the results are breathtaking!

42. Red Brown Twists

Nevertheless, a bit of red can be the spicy touch to your entire hairstyle. If you’re not into the idea of candy red or other flashy takes on this color, consider the wonderful world of red-brown tones.

43. Dark Magenta Twists

A deep tone of magenta, for instance, is yet another terrific choice for ladies with bright personalities. We also recommend the balayage technique too for even more stunning results.

44. Stacked and Colored Twists

This wine red is phenomenal not only on the twist but also against darker skin tones. The stacked cutting is also essential for that radiant final shape!

45. Curly Colored Tips

We’ve shown full-colored options so far, but there’s also this choice: instead of dyeing the entire braids, only add a dash of color to the tips. This idea works wonderfully for women that go with the classy kinky twists with curled tips looks as it will accentuate the ends of the locks.

46. Ombre Twists

Ombre hair is yet another sweet way of mixing up colors in your hair style. For a natural approach to the color blend, think about combining two earth tones, like the black and brown above.

47. Ombre and Updo

To continue on the same note, here is what kinky twists look like when they’re halfway colored and styled in an updo. An intense chocolate brown was used for the ombre, shades further enhanced by the updo itself.

48. Two Tone Twists

Ombre isn’t the only way you can mix two colors in a hairstyle. Here, we can appreciate a skillful job of top highlights on a black base. The rusty red used for the highlights is a perfect way to add some glam to the look.

49. Lowlights and Jumbo Twists

For this example, we wanted to mix two distinct ideas. Firstly, this is another fantastic representation of jumbo twists. Then, the look magnificently comes to life with some rich, burgundy lowlights placed in strategic areas.

50. Brown Balayage Kinky Twists

What truly impresses us regarding this hairstyle is the mix of coloring techniques. While the base method is undoubtedly balayage, there are certain points of intensity that remind us of classic highlights. Put them together and get a hairstyle that won’t go by unnoticed!

So, What Is YOUR Hair Motivation?

To wrap everything up, kinky twists are an excellent idea for African American women looking to protect their hair in a fabulous way. There are more than enough approaches available so you can find the perfect twists for you.

No matter if you chose short and bouncy twists or decide to go for long and luscious ones, wear them with confidence and a broad smile! And don’t forget to tell us your favorite!

Comments

Cappi93 says

April 4, 2018 at 2:43 pm

I absolutely love all of these styles. I can wait to twist my hair and try some them out!

- Samantha Lottie says
  
  April 10, 2018 at 12:38 pm
  
  We are glad you like them, Cappi! Make sure to show us your new hairstyle, we would love to see it!

FAQ