Dreads twists combine two unique hairstyles for an elevated look with extra texture. Think of singer, songwriter, and record producer Ty Dolla $ign’s famous hairdo.
If you’re looking for inspiration to help style your dreads twists, look no further. This article will feature ten unique dread twists that you can try and some care tips to keep them healthy.
You may also want to read:
- Distressed Locs Styling Guide + Best Textured Locs Styles
- Dreads With Fade Styling Guide + 12 Locs Styles Inspiration
Introducing Dreads Twists
The term ‘dreads twists’ can be confusing for many. After all, dreads and twists are two distinct types of hairstyles. I will expound on the difference between these two in a while. For now, let me first clarify what dreads twists are.
Dreads twists can refer to two types of hairstyles. First, starter locs that use the twists method. Second, two strands of locs intertwined using any twist techniques. Let us explore each more.
Dreads Twists: Starter Locs Using Twists
The first type of dreads twists is the starter locs that use the twist method. Starter locs is the first phase of the entire dreadlock life stages. It usually lasts from three to six months.
You will need at least four inches of hair length for this starter locs. The process involves parting the hair into small sections. Then, intertwine two sections of hair in a twist until they mesh, lock, matte, and mature together.
You can expect your hair to look more like twists than dreads during this time. After six months, you can notice that the twists are beginning to mature into locs.
Dreads Twists: Intertwined Locs Using Twists
The second type of dreads twists involve meshing two or more strands of mature locs together using any twist techniques. This dreadlocks hairstyle provides an added layer of texture to existing dreadlocks.
Dreads vs. Twists
Dreads
Dreads are also called locs and dreadlocks. Traditionally, this classic style allows curls and coils to grow naturally on their own without ever having to groom them. The result looks like ropelike strands of hair or rope twist dreads.
Today, different methods exist to create starter locs for everyone who wants to begin their loc journey instantly. The most common starter locs methods are twisting, braiding, palm-rolling, interlocking, comb coils, sisterlocks, and brotherlocks. With these, there’s no need to wait for the hair to lock together naturally.
Twists
Based on the name, twists are a distinct protective hairstyle with a twist technique with one, two, or three sections of hair. Twist hairstyles can use different types of braiding hair to wrap around the natural hair. The resulting look varies depending on the length and thickness of the twists. Unlike classic dreadlocks that can last permanently, twists are meant to take down after eight weeks.
Dreads Twists Hairstyles
Triangle Dreads Twists
Starter locs using the twist method can look clean and tame. If you want to add edginess while waiting for the twists to mature into locs, you can experiment with triangle-shaped patterns. Doing so creates a bold contrast that adds more character to the overall appearance of the hairstyle.
High Ponytail Dreads Twists With Gold Clips
Women with medium-length to long dread twists can never go wrong in choosing the classic high ponytail. It pulls the hair away to draw focus on the face while also highlighting the hairstyle. Those dreads twists cannot help but attract attention since they can be chunky and voluminous when tied together. Plus, they look divine.
Barrel Bun Meets Two-Strand Twists
No one is stopping you from exploring combinations regarding styling dreads twists. If you are up to the challenge of rocking unconventional hairstyles, try this barrel bun with two-strand twists. With some tweaks, this two-strand twist style is like your typical half-up and half-down. Experiment with an asymmetrical barrel bun and scattered flowing twists to recreate this look.
Dreads Twists Weave
If you have long, thin dread twists and want to add flair to your regular updos, try this weave pattern hairstyle. The key to this look has uniform hair sections. Weave your twist strands starting from the nape and going toward the crown. Finish the hairstyle with a side bun.
Mohawk Dreads Twists
Dreads exude an untamed strength and spunky confidence that matches a mohawk hairstyle’s vibe. Do not worry about shaving the sides. You can pull and gather the hair towards the center. This mohawk dreads look showcases your facial features and shows off your wick dreads twists simultaneously.
Short Dreads Twists
The great thing about starter locs using the twist technique is that you can have it done even with short hair. You will benefit from enjoying the transformation of your hairstyle’s texture as your hair grows longer and the twists lock and matte over time.
Styling a short dreads twist is also effortless. There is nothing much to do but allow it to flow down. The result looks charming, casual, and approachable.
Two-Sided Half-Pony Dreads Twists
There is always a sassy and chic styling option for your dreads twists. This two-sided half-ponytail hairstyle is a clean and effortless look you can wear on any occasion. It is perfect for everyone who has thin twists.
Pineapple Dreads Twists
Initially, the pineapple hairstyle is created to protect hair from loosening while you sleep. But this hairstyle looks bold and stunning to hide in the bedroom. Try this one out if you want to fashion your updo another way. It only requires so much time and effort to pull this off compared to other dreadlock styles on this list.
Two Barrel Twists
This hairstyle is bold and striking but also looks clean and refreshing. You will need a professional loctician to get this look. It will last around six weeks, depending on how well you take care of this hairstyle.
Six Barrel Twists
There is no limit when it comes to barrel twist hairstyle. You can also try these six-barrel twists that flow down on the sides. After all, the result looks equally striking and appealing.
Dreads Twists Care Tips
1. Wash
Washing your dread twists removes impurities and residues. It also helps to keep them healthy. To choose the best shampoos for locs, look for products free from sulfates, silicones, additives, and fragrances.
If you have starter locs, wait four to eight weeks before washing. For those who have mature locs, you can shampoo at least once a week or every time you need to.
2. Dry
Drying your scalp and locs thoroughly after every wash is a must if you have dreadlocks or twists. Begin with towel drying and follow with air drying your dreads twists. You can even finish it with blow drying. Dreads twists are prone to developing molds, and the smell is left damp for a long time.
3. Moisturize
Your dreads need special care since they are susceptible to breakage. It is crucial to moisturize using natural oils to avoid frizziness, brittleness, and dryness.
4. Wear Silk Cap
To prevent your dread twist from loosening, cover them with a silk or satin bonnet before sleeping.
5. Avoid Tight Bands
Avoid using tight bands when styling your dread twists to prevent them from excessive damage.
6. Retwist and Retighten
Regularly retwisting and retightening your dread twists will keep them in good shape and prevent them from loosening.
Dreads Twists FAQs
Can you get dreads with twists?
Yes. One of the starter locs methods is the two-strand twist method. It involves intertwining two sections of hair into a twist, allowing them to lock and mature over time.
How often should you twist your dreads?
The frequency of retwisting your dreads depends on factors like loc maturity stage, how fast your hair grows, and how well you take good care of it.
If you are in the starter loc stage, you can retwist after two months. But if you have mature locs, you can retwist every week or every other week.
Also, those whose hair grows fast can retwist and retighten faster than those whose hair grows slowly. Last, if you can take good care of your locs well, you do not need to retwist and retighten it as often.
How long does dreads twist installation take?
It takes about three to eight hours to install starter locs using the twists method. The time depends on the length and volume of the hair, as well as the thickness of the twists.
Rock Your Dreads Twists Hairstyle
Waiting for your twists to mature into locs provides endless styling possibilities. Whether you are considering twists to begin your dreadlock journey or have already chosen this method, I hope the different hairstyles above inspire you.
Also, if you want to add an extra layer of hair texture to your mature locs, no one is stopping you from making them into twists. Whichever is the case, go ahead, rock your dreads twists hairstyle.
Diana used to work as an Assistant Salon Manager in Los Angeles, CA before she started writing for Union of Barbers. With over 10 years of experience, she has tried hundreds of hair care products and has seen, styled, and treated all types of hair. Now, she shares all of the things she has learned in the hair industry and gives advice on everything about hair. When she’s not writing, you can find Diana at the beach on her yoga mat!
