Senegalese Twists: A Complete Guide to Hair Preparation, Installation, Cost, and Maintenance
Senegalese twists are a popular and protective hairstyle that originated from Senegal, West Africa. These stylish twists are not only versatile and low-maintenance, but they also protect natural hair, making them a popular choice among individuals looking for a chic and protective style. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about Senegalese twists, including hair preparation, the installation process, materials needed, cost, maintenance, and takedown.
Hair Preparation
Before getting Senegalese twists, it’s important to prepare your hair to ensure that the installation process is smooth and that your natural hair remains healthy while in the twists. Here are the steps to take when preparing your hair:
- Cleanse and Condition: Start by washing your hair thoroughly with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to add moisture and strengthen your hair. Senegalese twists can last for weeks, so you want to make sure your hair is moisturized and strong beforehand.
- Detangle: After washing and conditioning, gently detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to remove any knots or tangles. This will make the installation process easier and less painful.
- Stretching: It’s a good idea to stretch your hair either by blow-drying on low heat or by doing a twist-out or braid-out. This will help prevent shrinkage and make the installation process smoother.
- Trim and Treat Scalp: Before installation, it’s advisable to trim any split ends to promote healthy hair growth during the time your hair will be in the protective style. Additionally, massage your scalp with oils such as jojoba, castor, or tea tree oil to nourish your scalp.
Materials Needed for Senegalese Twists Installation
Here’s a list of materials you’ll need for a successful Senegalese twist installation:
- Hair extensions: Kanekalon or Toyokalon synthetic hair is commonly used for Senegalese twists. For a full head, you’ll typically need 6 to 8 packs, depending on the thickness and length of the twists.
- Rat-tail comb: To part and section your hair accurately.
- Edge control or gel: To smooth your edges and prevent frizz during installation.
- Clips: To hold sections of your hair as you work.
- Hot water (optional): Some people dip the ends of the twists in hot water to seal and set the twists.
Installation Process
Senegalese twists can be installed by a professional hairstylist or done at home if you’re skilled. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Section the hair: Start by parting your hair into small sections. The size of the sections will determine how thick or thin your twists will be. The smaller the sections, the thinner and more numerous your twists will be.
- Prepare the extensions: Take a small amount of the synthetic hair extension, fold it in half, and place it at the base of the sectioned hair. Ensure the synthetic hair is even for consistent twist length.
- Start twisting: With the extension securely in place, begin twisting. Divide the natural hair into two parts and twist it with the synthetic hair by rolling the two sections between your fingers as you twist them around each other. Make sure the twists are tight but not too tight to avoid scalp tension.
- Continue twisting: Continue twisting each section until you’ve completed the entire head. Depending on your hair length and the size of the twists, this can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours for a full head of Senegalese twists.
- Seal the ends: Once the twists are done, you can choose to dip the ends in hot water to seal them or secure them with a small knot. Hot water helps prevent unraveling and gives the ends a neat finish.
How Long Does It Take to Install Senegalese Twists?
The time it takes to install Senegalese twists depends on the size of the twists and the experience of the stylist. Generally, installing medium-sized Senegalese twists takes about 4 to 8 hours. If you’re getting smaller twists or if the stylist is working alone, it can take up to 10 hours. Make sure to clear your schedule for the day and bring something to keep you entertained!
Cost of Senegalese Twists
The cost of getting Senegalese twists varies depending on the region, the skill level of the stylist, and the size of the twists. On average, professional installation costs between $150 and $300. If you’re doing the twists yourself, you’ll only need to pay for the hair extensions, which range from $30 to $70, depending on the brand and quality.
Maintenance
One of the major benefits of Senegalese twists is that they are low-maintenance, but it’s still important to care for your hair while it’s in the style to ensure the health of both your natural hair and the twists. Here’s how to maintain Senegalese twists:
- Moisturize: Even though your hair is in twists, it still needs moisture. Use a light leave-in conditioner or a mixture of water and oil to spritz your scalp and hair every few days. Avoid heavy creams or products that may cause buildup.
- Scalp Care: Keep your scalp clean by using a dry shampoo or a mixture of water and witch hazel on a cotton ball to cleanse the scalp. This helps prevent buildup and itchiness.
- Protect at Night: To prevent frizz and maintain the neatness of the twists, wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet at night. You can also use a satin pillowcase if you prefer not to wear a scarf.
- Re-twist Edges: After a few weeks, the twists near your hairline may start to loosen. You can re-twist those sections to keep the style looking fresh without reinstalling the entire head.
Takedown Process
The takedown process for Senegalese twists is just as important as the installation. Properly removing the twists will protect your hair from unnecessary damage. Here’s how to safely remove Senegalese twists:
- Cut the Extensions: Start by cutting the ends of the twists if you know where your natural hair stops. Be careful not to cut your actual hair.
- Unravel the Twists: Gently unravel each twist, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Be patient to avoid pulling or damaging your natural hair.
- Detangle and Moisturize: Once the twists are out, your hair may be tangled or matted. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Afterward, wash and deep condition your hair to restore moisture and elasticity.
Conclusion
Senegalese twists are a beautiful and protective style that offers both versatility and ease. With proper preparation, installation, and maintenance, they can last up to 6–8 weeks, making them a long-lasting hairstyle choice. Whether you choose to install them yourself or visit a professional stylist, following these steps will help you achieve and maintain a stunning look while keeping your natural hair healthy.
