Are you looking for a new hairstyle next to your usual two-strand twists? The 3 strand twist could become your new favorite protective hairstyle. As much as we all love 2 strand twists, it’s never a bad idea to step out of your comfort zone. You might have heard of the 3 strand twist which surfaced online a few years ago. Understanding what a 3 strand twist is can be confusing at first. How is it different than a 2 strand twist? Is it a regular braid? We have the explanation and a few tips to wear the 3 strand twist as a protective style.
What are 3-strand twists?
3 strand twists are a braiding technique that remains a twisting style but incorporates 3 strands of hair instead of 2. The 3 strand twists look very similar to 2 strands twists with a noticeable difference. The intricated design is twisting on 3 strands of hair that looks more defined. The third strand of hair adds more depth to the twist as well by giving it a chunkier look. Because of the small complexity of this style, it might take longer to achieve than a 2 strand twist. 2 strand twists are widely used because of their simplicity and their ability to be a long-term protective style.
How long do 3 strand twists last?
Generally, twists on natural hair are known to be a protective style that can last for a long time. It can be worn as a winter and summer protective style, being able to go through wash days for weeks or even months. The 3 strand twist is known to last longer because of the braiding pattern. The 3 strands of hair twisted together hold tighter than 2 strands, offering more longevity. Similar to a braid pattern, the 3 strand twist has more structure which makes it the perfect protective hairstyle. How long you will be able to wear this hairstyle will also depend on your braiding technique and your hairstyle preference. As for all braided hairstyles, twisting tighter will make your hairstyle last longer. Wearing your twists for more than a few weeks might lead to frizz and less definition than on the day of your install. How long you choose to wear it depends on your preference, as long as you continue with your wash days and overall haircare routine.
How to do 3 strand twists on natural hair?
Step 1: Prep Your Natural Hair
As with all natural hairstyles, starting on clean, moisturized and thoroughly detangled hair will give you the best results. Styling your hair for a protective style is best to do on or right after your wash day so your hair is in the best condition. Make sure to use a cleansing or hydrating shampoo depending on your hair’s needs and a moisturizing leave-in conditioner.
Allow your hair to dry until it’s just damp is the perfect condition for styling your strands into a 3 strand twist.
Gather your hair styling tools, including a wide-tooth comb (if you would like to do a clean parting), hair clips, and a juicy styling cream or mousse designed for the best definition. We love the Doux Mousse Def texture foam, this product will give you out of this world curl definition ! Styling creams usually offer more shine and moisture while a hair mousse will give you lasting hold if you decide to rock a 3 strand twist out.
Step 2: Detangle and Separate Your Hair
Divide your hair in sections and detangle it meticulously. The help of a detangling brush can be a tremendous help. Gently work through your hair to remove any knots or tangles. Apply a bit of your preferred styling product to provide added moisture and hold. After achieving a smooth texture, part your hair into three equal sections. So you will now have “strand 1”, “strand 2” and “strand 3”.
Step 3: Twisting Time
To create the 3 strand twist, take the right strand over the middle one, followed by the left strand over the new middle strand. Repeat this process until you reach the end of the strands. As you reach the end of your hair, twist the remaining to keep your twists secure. Starting to braid at the root of your hair might help you to twist your hair as you will have base with 3 distinctive hair strands.
Here is a video below to help you with the 3 strand twist process!
Step 4: The Final Touch
After you’ve completed all your twists, you can apply additional a styling mousse to your hair and put on a silk scarf once your hair is dry to prevent frizz.
Which is better 2 strand or 3 strand twist?
3 strand twists can take longer to do and might be confusing to achieve at first as you have to keep on remembering to create a 3 strand twist and not a braid. 2 strand twists are almost a no brainer hairstyle that you can create in no time with a simple technique. However, the 3 strand twist does last longer than a traditional 2 strand twist and produces less frizz. If you’re after a new protective hairstyle that can hold for a long time and you don’t mind the intricate braiding pattern, the 3 strand twist is your best option. But if you’re looking for a quick style to create after wash day 2 strand twists are your go to. 2 strand and 3 twists also look beautiful as a twist-out! The 2-strand twist-out will give you more volume while 3 strand twist will offer more definition with tighter curls.
We love the lazy natural approach over here! The two strand twists will always be the go to protective style.
