Refreshing band twist outs for bouncy coily texture
What's the story
Band twist outs are a popular choice for styling coily hair, giving defined, bouncy curls without heat. This method involves twisting damp sections of hair and securing them with bands to stretch. When dry, removing the bands reveals elongated, defined curls. This article explores five tips to level up your band twist outs for even more fabulous results.
Preparation
Prepping your hair properly
The key to a beautiful band twist out lies in well-prepared hair. Start by cleansing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo, followed by a moisturizing conditioner. Detangle your hair while it's still wet and conditioned. This helps prevent breakage and makes the twisting process easier. Use a leave-in conditioner or curl defining cream. This step adds extra moisture and assists in defining your curls as they set.
Bands selection
Choosing the right bands
Not all bands are created equal when it comes to band twist outs. Choosing small, snag-free elastic bands is key as they reduce tension and breakage. Steer clear of rubber bands or anything that adheres to your hair, as these can damage your strands during removal. For those seeking extra breakage protection, satin or silk scrunchies can be a great alternative.
Twisting technique
The art of twisting
The way you twist your hair makes a huge difference in how your braid twist out turns out. Section your hair into neither too large nor too small sections; one inch wide sections will give you the best definition. Twist each section tightly but not super tight to prevent scalp tension and ensure even drying and curl formation.
Night care
Nighttime care for lasting curls
Protecting your band twist out overnight is crucial for keeping its definition and bounce. Wrapping your head in a satin or silk scarf or bonnet prevents frizz by reducing friction between your curls and the pillowcase as you move in your sleep. If you're not a fan of head wraps, opt for satin or silk pillowcases. They're gentler on your curls and help fight frizz.
Curl refreshing
Refreshing your curls between washes
To keep your band twist out looking fresh between wash days, lightly misting your hair with water or a curl refresher spray can revive limp curls without causing frizz or shrinkage. Focus on areas that tend to lose definition first, such as the ends and the nape area, gently scrunching them upwards after applying the spray to encourage curl formation without disrupting the overall style.