Flat twisting is an excellent protective style for natural hair, particularly for short hair. It’s versatile, easy to do, and gives your hair a stylish look while helping retain moisture and protect from breakage. Whether you’re aiming for a neat protective style or a textured twist-out, flat twisting is a great technique to learn.
In this guide, we’ll break down the process step by step, ensuring that even beginners can follow along. We’ll cover essential tips, techniques, and tools for achieving beautiful flat twists on short natural hair.
What Are Flat Twists?
Flat twists are similar to traditional twists but are created along the scalp, much like cornrows. Unlike cornrows, flat twists only require two strands of hair, making them easier for beginners. They’re a great option for those with short hair because they help define curls, add texture, and create a polished look.
Why Flat Twist Short Natural Hair?
Flat twisting is beneficial for short natural hair for several reasons:
- Protective Style: Helps prevent breakage and retains moisture, especially when paired with a leave-in conditioner.
- Easy Maintenance: Once your hair is in flat twists, it’s low-maintenance, saving time on daily styling.
- Versatile: You can wear flat twists as a style on their own or undo them for a curly twist-out.
With these advantages in mind, let’s get started on learning how to flat twist your short natural hair.
Tools and Products You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools and products:
- Wide-tooth comb: For detangling your hair.
- Rat-tail comb: To create neat parts and sections.
- Hair clips or ties: To hold sections of your hair in place while twisting.
- Moisturizing leave-in conditioner: To hydrate and soften your hair.
- Curl cream or gel: For added hold and definition.
- Edge control: To smooth down your edges if desired.
- Spray bottle with water: To keep your hair damp while working.
- Satin or silk scarf: For protecting your flat twists overnight.
Step-by-Step Guide to Flat Twisting Short Natural Hair
Now that you have your tools and products ready, follow these steps to achieve your flat twists.
1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair
Begin by washing and conditioning your hair. Flat twists work best on clean hair because product buildup can make the twists look less defined. After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner to help with moisture and detangling. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.
It’s important to keep your hair slightly damp as you twist, so use a spray bottle to rehydrate sections of your hair if it starts to dry out.
2. Section Your Hair
Using a rat-tail comb, part your hair into sections. The size of the sections depends on the style you’re going for. Larger sections will give you chunkier twists, while smaller sections will result in more defined, smaller twists.
For beginners, it’s helpful to divide your hair into four quadrants, using hair clips or ties to keep the sections separated. This will make the process more manageable and ensure your parts are neat.
3. Apply Moisturizer and Curl Cream
Before you start twisting, apply a small amount of curl cream or gel to the section you’re working on. This will give the twist more hold and help define your curls. Distribute the product evenly from root to tip using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
4. Begin Flat Twisting
Now, it’s time to start flat twisting:
- Take a small section of hair from the front of one of your quadrants.
- Split the section into two equal strands.
- Begin twisting by crossing one strand over the other, pulling in hair from the scalp as you go, much like cornrowing but with two strands instead of three.
- Continue twisting down the length of your hair until you reach the ends.
Keep the tension firm but not too tight, especially at the scalp, to avoid pulling on your hair and causing breakage. Twist all the way down to the ends, and if your hair is particularly short, you can use a small amount of gel or curl cream to secure the ends.
5. Repeat the Process
Move on to the next section, repeating the flat twisting process. Be consistent with the direction of your twists for a uniform look. It’s a good idea to alternate between horizontal and vertical sections if you want a fuller, more voluminous twist-out later.
For shorter hair, it might be helpful to do smaller sections to ensure each twist stays secure and defined. If you want your edges to look sleek, apply edge control at this point.
6. Secure Your Twists
Once you’ve completed all your flat twists, make sure they are neat and secure. You can add small hair accessories or bobby pins to the ends if necessary, but usually, curl cream or gel will help hold them in place.
7. Let Your Twists Set
For the best results, allow your flat twists to set for several hours, or overnight if possible. If you plan to leave the twists in for a few days, tie a satin or silk scarf around your head before bed to protect the twists and prevent frizz.
8. Optional: Unravel for a Twist-Out
If you’re aiming for a twist-out style, gently unravel each twist after they’ve had time to set. Apply a bit of oil to your fingertips to minimize frizz, and separate each twist carefully to achieve more volume and definition.
See Also: How To Keep Naturally Curly Hair Straight After Straightening
Flat Twist Styling Ideas for Short Hair
Flat twists can be worn in a variety of ways depending on your preference and occasion. Here are a few ideas for styling your flat twists:
1. Side-Parted Flat Twists
Create a deep side part and flat twist your hair in the direction of the part. This style gives a chic, asymmetrical look and is great for short hair.
2. Flat Twist Crown
Part your hair into two sections, and flat twist both sides toward the center of your head, meeting at the crown. Secure the ends with bobby pins for a regal, protective style.
3. Flat Twist with TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)
If your hair is especially short, you can flat twist the sides and back, leaving the top section in a curly afro. This combination of styles adds texture and dimension.
4. Flat Twist Bantu Knots
After flat twisting the hair, wrap the ends into small Bantu knots. This gives a playful, edgy look that works well for short hair.
Tips for Flat Twisting Success
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind as you flat twist your short natural hair:
- Work on damp hair: Twisting on damp hair makes the process smoother and helps your hair hold the twist better.
- Use products sparingly: Too much product can weigh your hair down, especially if it’s short. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Keep your parts neat: Use a rat-tail comb to create straight, clean parts. This will make your twists look more professional and polished.
- Don’t twist too tight: Avoid twisting too tightly at the scalp, as this can cause tension and lead to breakage. Aim for firm but gentle twists.
Maintaining Your Flat Twists
Flat twists can last anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on how well you maintain them. To keep your twists looking fresh:
- Wrap your hair in a satin or silk scarf every night to reduce frizz.
- Moisturize your scalp and hair regularly by spritzing with water and applying a light oil.
- Touch up any frizzy areas with a small amount of curl cream or gel.
Conclusion
Flat twisting short natural hair is a beginner-friendly technique that offers versatility, style, and protection. With the right tools, products, and patience, you can achieve beautiful, defined flat twists that complement your natural texture. Whether you wear them as a protective style or unravel them for a textured twist-out, flat twists are a must-learn method for anyone with short natural hair.
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