Flat twists are two-strand twists that hang loose. They are a protective hairstyle best for natural textured hair. If you want to expand your hairstyling repertoire, here are some flat twist hairstyles to get you started.
Starr Mason , a beauty professional and stylist, says, “I love these protective styles. In my professional opinion, the flat twist is a style that can be worn by anyone. It brings sophistication to any look. You can choose which look is best for you and your occasion. While you can create some of these styles yourself, some styles can be created by a professional. Make sure to use a moisture-based shampoo and conditioner before getting any of the flat twists to ensure moisture, control, and shine.”
While there are many protective braids, these twists are a great place to start as they are easy to learn. Scroll down and give these hairstyles a try!
- Flat twists are popular for being versatile. However, they are also a protective hairstyle done with extensions.
- This protective style can be done on natural as well as relaxed hair. It lasts for 4-6 weeks.
- Flat twists without extensions can last up to a week. However, depending on the complexity of the chosen style and maintenance, they can last longer.
- Natural hair types need to be at least 3 inches long for a flat twist hairstyle using extensions. Looser curl types need to be 4-5 inches long.
- Use a shampoo solution from a spray bottle to wash your flat twists. Spray them on the scalp and hair, rub gently, and rinse them under low-pressure running water.
- Do not forget to use conditioning sprays to keep your twists hydrated.
In This Article
Cultural Roots And Significance Of Flat Twist Hairstyles
Flat-twist hairstyles have their origin in the ancient African civilizations and African-American communities. People wore their hair in these styles to show respect for their African culture and uphold its heritage. During the transatlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans used these hairstyles to show resistance against oppression and express their belongingness to the African community. So, flat twists, like all protective hairstyles, are practical and rich in cultural symbolism. Scroll down for a deeper look into the cultural significance of these hairstyles.
- Connection To Ancestry: In many African communities, flat-twist hairstyles are still used to display the wearer’s tribal affiliation and social status. The complex patterns in the hair express one’s ancestral background.
- Sign Of Empowerment: In African societies, individuals wore flat-twist hairstyles to defy societal pressures and break conventional standards that did not tolerate natural Afro hair. These convey one’s pride in their natural hair texture.
- Symbol Of Heritage And Traditions: Flat twists are an integral part of African hairstyles that are usually passed down from generation to generation. Thus, these hairdos represent African identity and celebrate African beauty.
- Community Bonding: Historically, hair care was a communal activity in Africa. Families joined in to create flat twists, fostering strong connections. These twisted styles strengthened familial bonds and conveyed a sense of togetherness.
While flaunting protective hairstyles like flat twists may seem natural on Black people, those from other ethnicities must do so with respect, ensuring they do not appropriate or offend the culture. One way of doing so is being aware of their cultural significance and not misrepresenting them. That said, let us now explore some of the best flat-twist hairstyles. These look edgy and elegant at the same time. Keep reading.
35 Edgy Flat Twist Hairstyles You Need To Check Out In 2025
The flat twists are gentle on hair and scalp and evenly distribute the weight of the hair. These protective hairstyles can help minimize exposure to harsh environmental factors, allowing less manipulation of the mane. This helps reduce the likelihood of split ends, tension, breakage, and damage. These hairstyles help hold on to moisture for longer and keep knot-free. Let’s take a look at some of the coolest flat-twist hairstyles.
1. Half Flat Half Free Single Twist
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This hairstyle is a combo of two cool styles. It starts with simple flat twist lines in the front. Then, about halfway through, we have multiple layers of freely cascading single twists instead of flat-lying twists. This looks perfect for medium-length hair. Add delicate gold or silver cuffs to single twists for a classy touch.
Hair Type: Curly, coily, and wavy.
Face Shape: Oval, heart, and square.
2. Criss-Cross Flat Twist
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