men · curly hair
Two-Strand Twists for Men: Styles, How-To,and Care
Two-strand twists for men: short and long styles, twists with a fade, how to do them at home, how long they last, and how to keep them from frizzing.
Hairover Team
Two-strand twists are a style where small sections of coily or curly hair are split in two and twisted around each other from root to tip. For men, they’re a low-maintenance way to wear longer natural hair, they look good with a fade or taper, and they can be the first step toward locs. Short twists need about two inches of hair.
Popular styles
1. Short twists with a high fade. Twists on top, skin fade at the sides. Clean and modern. See low, mid, and high fades.
2. Twists with a taper. A softer, lower-contrast version. See taper fade styles.
3. Medium twists. Twists long enough to hang toward the forehead. A relaxed look.
4. Long twists tied back. Pulled into a low ponytail or bun.
5. Twists with a design. A line or pattern shaved into the faded sides. See haircut designs for men.
6. Twist-out. Take the twists out after a few days for defined, fluffy curls.
7. Sponge twists. Small twists made with a twist sponge. Shorter and quicker than hand twists.
How to do them at home
- Start with clean, damp, detangled hair. Detangle with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
- Section. Use a comb to make small square sections. Smaller sections give smaller twists.
- Apply product. A twisting cream or butter on each section.
- Twist. Split the section in two, then twist the two strands around each other from root to end.
- Seal the ends. Coil the ends around your finger.
- Let them dry fully before touching them.
How long they last
Most twists last one to three weeks before the roots get fuzzy. To make them last:
- Sleep in a durag or satin bonnet.
- Lightly moisturize the twists every couple of days.
- Retwist just the front and edges, which frizz first.
Twists to locs
If you leave your twists in and keep retwisting the roots instead of taking them out, they can start to lock. Many people start locs this way. Read starter locs before you decide, because locs are a long-term commitment.
Avoid tension
Twisting too tightly at the roots can pull at the hairline. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that tight braids, locs, and twists can cause traction alopecia, and says that if a style hurts, it’s too tight. Watch the edges and temples for broken hairs.
Related guides
See your twists on your face first
Twist length and fade height both change your look. Hairover lets you upload a clear photo, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio before your barber visit.
FAQ
How long does hair need to be for two-strand twists?
About two inches is enough for short twists. Longer hair gives longer, heavier twists that hang down.
How long do two-strand twists last?
Usually one to three weeks before they get frizzy, depending on your hair and how you sleep. Wearing a durag or satin bonnet at night helps them last.
Can two-strand twists turn into locs?
Yes. If you leave them in and keep retwisting the roots instead of taking them out, they can lock over time. Many people start locs this way.
Do two-strand twists damage your hair?
Not if they are done gently. Twisting too tightly at the roots can pull on the hairline, so keep them snug but never painful.
