When I say I am excited about this hairstyle and technique it isn’t an exaggeration of a statement! There are so many benefits to the flat twist as opposed to the typical single twist. The flat twist provides structure to the Afro and a well-defined curl pattern (which I am yet to perfect). The flat twist twist-out also takes less time to do than single twists. I’m pretty sure I only spent about 15 minutes on these as opposed to the 30 minutes I usually spend on single twists.
As it was my first attempt, I wanted to make sure I gave myself the best chance of getting the style right so I started off with my hair freshly co-washed. The key is having moist or wet hair. I say moist is okay because you can use a spritz bottle to refresh the style after a day or two after washing. Afro tools at hand, large toothcomb and Shea butter mix, I started making partings to begin the process. Every flat twist starts from the centre of the scalp and ends at the hairline. So the overall pattern ends up looking like a star (I hope that makes enough sense). You will see exactly what I mean in the video.
So the next day I unravelled the flat twists. The best time to do flat twists or any twist-out or braid-out for that matter is the night before you need to wear it out. That way your hair has enough time to set and fully dry. The purpose of the water is to allow your hair to take the twist shape and the set properly while the Shea Butter mix is so your hair is kept moisturised and soft. Makes sense right?
Some people say their hair doesn’t take well to Shea butter mixes, but I say it’s just a case of getting your proportions right. I could be wrong, but as far as hair is concerned, because of my love for Shea butter I feel it can be suitable for everyone. It’s natural, pure and safe with many benefits. Plus, unlike chemically enhanced hair products, there’s no chance of it irritating your scalp, face or eyes. If you can get your hands on some East African Nilotic Shea butter, you’ll be even better off, as it smells neutral and nowhere near as strong as West African Shea (though they both hold the same functional benefits). Hair has personality and its behaviour has to be observed in order for you to respond accordingly.
Styling the flat twists when unravelled was easy enough. My parting was already there so I didn’t have to disturb any curls. All in all, I was satisfied with the results and it opened my eyes to a world of possibilities. Give it a try, especially if you have never done so before! Check out the video Tutorial & leave me your comments! I can’t wait to read them. Better still, tag me in your images on Instagram or Twitter if you try it out!
Until the next post!
Tabitha x