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What You Need for Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists are the sleek, glossy end of the twist family. Where passion twists use textured water wave hair for a soft look, Senegalese uses smooth kanekalon, and the result is a rope twist with shine and a defined spiral. The hair choice is the whole difference.

The hair

Straight kanekalon, pre-stretched or bulk. Smooth and shiny is exactly what you want here, which is the opposite of the advice for marley or passion twists. Colors read cleanly on this hair, so ombre codes and brights show well, and the shine that can look artificial on a wig works in the style's favor.

The rope twist

Two strands twisted individually in one direction, then wound around each other in the opposite direction. That counter-twist is what makes the twist hold instead of unraveling. Twisting both strands the same way is the beginner mistake, and it produces a twist that comes apart within days.

How much and how long

Pack counts sit close to box braids of similar size. Install time is usually shorter than braids, since twisting is faster than a three-strand plait. Sealing the ends in hot water sets the twist and stops it unraveling, and it's worth doing even if the ends look secure.

Keeping the shine

Senegalese twists look their best smooth, so frizz shows more here than on a deliberately textured style. Satin at night, a light mousse to lay flyaways, and avoid heavy oils that dull the finish. If frizz has taken over by week four, the style has reached the end of its good run rather than needing more product.

Wear time and take-down

Six to eight weeks. Unravel the twist rather than pulling, cut clear of your own hair, and detangle each section with conditioner. Because the hair is smooth it slides apart easily, which makes take-down faster than braids.