Kinky twists are a popular style for natural hair and they can be an excellent way to have a low-maintenance and stylish protective hairstyle. You can wear this fashionable hairstyle with short sassy twists, or add more hair for a long flowy look.
Another reason to try kinky twist hair is that it reduces breakage and it also creates a professional and fashionable style. Meaning while you look amazing, your natural hair will be able to grow long and flourish.
To get kinky twists you or your hairstylist will do a two-strand twist technique to create a rope-like finish with loose, curly ends. For women who are natural, kinky twists can be a perfect style. They are low maintenance, look great, and protect natural hair.
You can experiment with different twist patterns and colors, and kinky twists are an easy way to create a unique look. To get started, choose a shade that compliments your natural hair color. Copper is an extremely popular shade, and platinum blonde is also a stunning shade
Table of Content
- Kinky Twists by Hair Length
- Different Kinky Twist Styles
- Kinky Twists Updos and Styles
- Colored Kinky Twist Hair
- Kinky Twists FAQs
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!
I. Kinky Twists by Hair Length
1. Short Kinky Twist Hair
To keep things short and sweet, use the photo above for inspiration. The kinky twist hair are short, bouncy, and layered for more volume than ever. Also, the kinky twists are generally shoulder-length, but you can keep them shorter too. So, 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 options for over-the-shoulder, medium-sized kinky twists. So, this is the ideal approach for women who want a balanced look that is neither too bold nor too bland.
3. Long Kinky Hair
Even though you’ll often find kinky twist hair 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 twist 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 Hair
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. So, these are just as classy and stylish and will look just as good.
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II. Different Kinky Twist Styles
6. Wavy Hairstyle
Twisted hairstyles can be styled to have different ‘forms’ too. In other words, kinky twist hair can take a wavy shape, among others. Also, this side-swept hairstyle has beautifully curled locks besides the curled tips. So, this helps create an overall wavy aspect.
7. Curly Kinky Twist Hairstyle
To make the twists even more textured, surpass wavy and strive for a curly look. Observe the tight twists of hair that start from the back and travel down to the tips of the locks. In addition, we recommend the chic half-up styling.
8. Afro Style
Twists are some of the most beloved African-American short black hairstyles. One outnumbered benefit 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 Twist
Crochet braiding is a technique that rests at the foundation of numerous African hairstyles. In this context, it’s an exceptional way to obtain kinky hairstyle – 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 hairstyle’s name.
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 with kinky braids. Then, the outcome is a cute and protective hairstyle for natural hair.
12. Small Kinky Twist Hairstyle
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 Style
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
Yet another way to sport cornrows with twisted braids is to have them done just on the side. Unlike our first example, this hairstyle uses 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 with almost a doll-like aspect. These corkscrew beauties are 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.
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III. Kinky Twists Updos and Styles
17. Lose 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. So, 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. So, the half-up style uses a ponytail that can easily be turned into a top knot or bun too.
21. Shaved Sides
Jill Scott is an inspiration to us all – from her talent to her style. She is an avid supporter of the African hair community and usually sports enchanting hairstyles that embrace her roots. Also, 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 the 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. So, it doubles as a classy and casual hairstyle.
23. Elegant Hairstyle
On a similar note, this refined hairstyle will certainly work well for formal occasions. So, if you already have your twists in place, pin a few strands to the side to reveal those cheekbones and jawline.
24. Metallic Beads
This photo shows 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. Also, the use of beads might be inspired by Fulani braids.
25. Long Pixie Kinky Twist
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 Hairstyle
In some cases, styling braids can be as simple as 1, 2, or 3! Just like in this photo, rake your fingers through the twists and toss them carelessly to the side.
27. Swept Back Half Up Style
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 Style
Instead of tossing the braids to the side for a casual look, give them a boost of elegance by sweeping them over one shoulder. So, 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. Hairstyle for Mature Women
Braided and twisted hairstyles know no age. A style like this can bring out anyone’s youthful side, all while remaining perfectly age-appropriate, whether you are over 40, well past 50, or even in the golden 60s.
31. Layered Kinky Twists
This is not the first time we have mentioned 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. So, 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, making for a creative way to rock a twisted hairstyle.
34. Kinky Bob Haircut
When thinking about twisted braids, it is also best to keep haircuts in mind. Also, the sky is the limit regarding the curls’ length, shape, and texture. Specific cuts, like the bob, will prove particularly useful.
35. Half Up Hairstyle
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. So, pin up a handful of strands for this outgoing look.
36. Mohawk 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. So, we’re extremely impressed by the vertical braiding in the back and on the sides and 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, quite a few braided styles 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 Hair for Kids
Another aspect of kinky twist hair that we love is that they are a child-appropriate hairstyle. Also, they will now damage the hair but instead protect it.
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IV. Colored Kinky Twist Hair – 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. Then, this copper hair color, for instance, is a widespread favorite.
41. Platinum Blonde Hairstyle
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 a 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 Kinky Hair
A deep tone of magenta, for instance, is yet another terrific choice for ladies with bright personalities. Also, we recommend the balayage technique too for even more stunning results.
44. Stacked and Colored Twists
This red wine color 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. So, this idea works wonderfully for women that go with the classy kinky hair 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 hairstyle. Think about combining two earth tones, like the black and brown above for a natural approach to the color blend.
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 Style
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. So, 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
What truly impresses us regarding this hairstyle is the mix of coloring techniques. Combining the classic technique of balayage with points of intensity similar to highlights, you can create a hairstyle that is sure to draw attention!
Kinky Twists FAQs
Kinky twists are a traditional African style that dates back many centuries ago. While their history goes way back, it started trending again in the 2000s.
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-strand twist that traditionally ends in curled tips.
Kinky twists have unique qualities that separate them from Marley and Havana twists, such as a different installation procedure and a thicker strand size.
We’ve explained how kinky twists are installed, so know that Marley twists are directly twisted throughout the hair’s length.
Then, kinky twists tend to be much thinner or at least not as thick as Marley and Havana 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.
How long do kinky twists last?
There are a few factors to consider when asking how long kinky twists last. The most common time frame is anywhere from four to eight weeks. The biggest things to consider are how much maintenance you are willing to put forth, and how fast your hair grows.
A tip to keep your twists looking fresh is to wear a silk scarf or bonnet when you sleep to help protect your hair. Doing this will almost ensure your new hairstyle will look amazing for at least 6 weeks. You can also retwist any baby hairs that grow or if a few strands happen to become loose.
Is a kinky twist good for natural hair?
Yes! This hairstyle is a wonderful, stylish, and protective style for your natural hair. Plus, keeping your hair tight in a twist is a perfect way to reduce manipulation and prevent unwanted breakage. It is also very easy to add pops of vibrant colors or longer lengths to your hair.
What kind of hair do I need for kinky twists?
For kinky twists, you typically need to start with clean, untangled hair. After washing your hair with your favorite products use a wide-combed comb to remove any knots. Then you will need to add the hair extensions you want.
Most of the time you will want synthetic hair that either matches the color and texture of your natural hair, or you can always go with lighter or darker tones to add a bit of contrast. The most important thing about picking your synthetic hair is to find the best quality that will not shed or tangle because it can damage your real hair.
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 fabulously. Also, there are more than enough approaches available so you can find the perfect twists for you.
Whether you choose short and bouncy twists or go for long and luscious ones, wear the kinky twists with confidence and a broad smile! And don’t forget to tell us your favorite!
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Lorene Kendall is a professional hairdresser who has been around in the industry for quite some time. She has traveled to different countries and cities because of her undeniable passion for styling. Her creativity and eyes for fashion are what make her stand out the most. With her talent, she provides service that will beautifully translate what her clients want into actual art.
Cappi93 says
I absolutely love all of these styles. I can wait to twist my hair and try some them out!
Samantha Lottie says
We are glad you like them, Cappi! Make sure to show us your new hairstyle, we would love to see it!