We all love a good TikTok dance (currently obsessed with the Curious by Shenseea dance challenge) or a quick makeup hack from your favorite TikTok influencer. But have you ever dived into the TikTok hair universe?
Honestly, it’s like stumbling onto a whole new galaxy. There are TikTok haircuts, hairstyles, locs options, TikTok hair colors, and a lot more – there’s even an entire section dedicated to Mohawks only! It’s wild.
So, if you’re ever in a style rut or need some hair inspo, rush over to TikTok and see what tickles your fancy.
Don’t have the time? No worries. We always have your back.
We spent hundreds of hours on the app, scoured through every TikTok hair corner, and landed in the Nubian Twist country, where we stumbled on some of the cutest, and badass looks we’ve ever seen.
Tbh, you might not find us with anything else but these twists all summer.
Judge for yourself.
What Are Nubian Twists?
Nubian twists are a protective hairstyle that resembles two-strand twists.
They involve using Nubian hair extensions that come in a tight coil design (a springy pattern) – which is why many people refer to them as spring twists.
The twists are formed by sectioning the hair and twisting every section tightly, starting from the roots and working down to the ends.
The one thing that differentiates Nubian twists from any other protective style is that they don’t have sheen (as with Senegalese twists and box braids).
They also come in two sizes – short and medium (shoulder-length). If you want long Nubian twists, your stylist can add more hair extensions until you reach your desired length.
What Hair Should You Use For Nubian Twists?
Nubian twists use a special type of hair extension known as Nubian hair to achieve a springy look. It creates a more defined and neater two-strand twist that resembles a spring – which is why Nubian twists are sometimes referred to as spring twists.
You can get the Nubian hair extension from several hair brands, including:
- Kadi Nubian Twist Hair (the silky one is the best)
- Beshe Nubian Twist Hair
- Diana Nubian Twist Hair
- Motown Tress Nubian Twist Hair
And as for how packs you’ll need, stylists say about 2-3 Nubian twist hair packs are enough to pull off a head-turning look.
How To Do Nubian Twists
There are two methods of installing Nubian twists.
Crochet Method
This is easy. It’s just like crocheting your favorite locs or boho goddess braids. All you have to is
1. Start with clean, moisturized, and stretched-out hair
2. Part your hair into four sections using a rattail comb, then apply a shine n jam gel to make the parting neat and clean
3. Further divide the hair into smaller sections (you can make them as tiny or large as you want. It’s all about you, sis!
4. Braid your hair into a single braid (unlike cornrows, braiding makes it look like you have single braids in. Cornrows + crochet hair = hair breakage and hairline damage).
5. Braid the other section and then join the two together to form a two-strand braid if you like
6. Repeat the process on all the other sections until you’re all braided in
7. Put your crochet pin into the base of your braid, put the pre-twisted Nubian hair in, latch your crochet, then put the end of the hair in there and pull it through to make a loop around your hair
8. Repeat the process until you’re happy with the results.
9. Apply some hair oil or spritz some sheen onto your twists, and voila! You’re ready to conquer the world!
For visual reference, check out the video below:
Non-Crochet Method
To do a Nubian twist the non-crochet way:
1. Start with clean, moisturized, and blow-dried hair
2. Part your hair into four sections and then apply some shine n jam to allow for a strong hold and neat finish
3. Further divide your hair into smaller sections (again, it depends on your desired size, boo!)
4. Apply your conditioning gel again for hold and to get a neat and frizz-free finish
5. Take your pre-fluffed Nubian hair or spring twist, braid it down (about six to eight times), clip down the braided part, and then start twisting
6. Once twisted, the hair naturally fluffs out to give that cool, defined Nubian twist look
7. Repeat the process until your strands are all twisted up and gorgeous!
8. Apply hair oil or spray some sheen and then style them accordingly (we’ll get to that below)
9. Oop! And don’t forget to slick down those edges, girl! You want to step outside looking yummy. Like a whole three-course meal!
Here’s a quick Nubian twists/Spring twists tutorial to help you out:
The Rubber Band Method
@JoyNavon here shows you how to do the rubber band method. It’s effortless, really. But it’s best shown using visuals, so check her out:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Nubian Twists Perfect For Transitioning Hair?
Transitioning from relaxed to natural can be challenging. Especially since hair can take its sweet time to grow, and let’s not even get to the kinky roots.
So, doing Nubian twists can help make this phase easier and safeguard your growing roots from excessive damage. But make sure your stylist doesn’t do them too tight. Tension can make transitioning worse and lead to more hair breakage.
How Long Do Nubian Twists Last?
Nubian twists can you up to six weeks, depending on your level of maintenance. So, apply that hair oil regularly, spritz them with conditioner occasionally, and always wear your silk scarf or bonnet at night.
But remember, it’s best not to cross the four-week mark with any protective style. You don’t want the hair to damage your roots. Also, since you keep switching your style, you might involuntarily tug and pull on your hair, thus causing breakage.
As for how long Nubian twists take at the salon, you can expect to be in your stylist’s seat for about one to three hours.
How Should You Take Care Of Your Nubian Twists?
Like any other protective style, have a solid haircare routine with Nubian twists. Stylists recommend cleansing them with warm water every two weeks. When dry, apply deep conditioner and hair treatment before giving them a final rinse.
You should also invest in a moisturizing leave-in conditioner and hair oil. They’ll help add shine and seal in moisture, preventing the dreaded frizz and flyaways.
Are Nubian Twists The Same As Spring Twists?
Yes, they are.
Some call them spring twists, while others refer to them as Nubian twists. So don’t be alarmed when your stylist refers to them as spring. These twists get their name from the buoyancy of the hair, which comes pre-curled or pre-twisted.
30 Nubian Twist Hairstyles With Pictures
If you’ve been searching for ways to rock Nubian twists, here are some of our favorite looks. They’re perfect for all seasons and all occasions and cute AF.
Nubian Twist Braids
You can add braids, locs, or goddess hair to your Nubian twists. They make for a playful, out-of-this-world look.
Long Nubian Twists
Beautiful. Sexy. Sophisticated. Adds to #summerhairstyles mood board.
Short Nubian Twist Styles
If short twists are more your style, try these short Nubian twists. They’re small, detailed, and short enough to be worn to the office, school, club, or gym.
Nubian Kinky Twist Hair
Kinky Nubian twists are perfect for fall and suit any occasion perfectly. Plus, styling them is so easy. You can do a bun, a side part, a pony, or just let them loose.
Nubian Spring Twist Hair
You can still use spring twist hair for some cool Nubian twist styles. So don’t look frazzled when your stylists call them spring twists, not Nubian. They’re all in the same family.
Nubian Twists With Shaved Sides
If you’re not a fan of Mohawks, this hairstyle is perfect for you. Take your twists, tie them in a high pony, and shave the sides of your hair off. Reminds us of Cassie in the 2000s.
Two-Strand Nubian Twists
Here, your stylist will twist two strands of hair together to create a rope-like effect. You can then style them in a low pony or leave them free for a more defined look.
Nubian Twist Updo
For the on-the-go days, throw your twists in an updo, layer a few on the front, and get your money, hun!
Micro Nubian Twists
If these micro-Nubian twists don’t make you want to call your hairstylist right now and find out if she can copy-paste this look, then we don’t know what you consider beautiful. These are gobsmackingly gorgeous!
Nubian Twist Crochet
If you don’t have time and aren’t patient with your stylist, get pre-twisted Nubian twists and crochet them into your natural hair. They create a full, voluminous look and are easy to take down when you’ve had enough.
Plus, you can rock crochet Nubian twists over locs, braids, cornrows, or small flat twists.
Shoulder-Length Nubian Twists
Medium twists are a favorite for most Black women. It doesn’t stress the head and is just long enough to try out a ton of styles.
Side-Part Nubian Braids
Side parts are some of the most stylish hairstyles anyone can rock. Leave one side with less hair and keep layering the other until you achieve your desired look.
Fire Cracker Nubian Twist Style
Red, burgundy, and orange-red Nubian twists are all over IG, and we don’t think the girlies are about to stop rocking them. They’re cute, unique, and versatile – you can wear them short, long, or chunky.
Nubian Twists With A Touch of 90s Vibes
If you’re still not done channeling the 80s/90s, here’s one more look for you to add to your folder.
Ombre Nubian Twists With Blonde Ends
It doesn’t matter if you choose silver, blue, blonde, or white; ombre Nubian twists are the most vibrant yet subtle look anyone can rock. Plus, they’ll turn heads wherever you go.
Half-Up Twists
It’s so simple yet so chic!
Nubian Twist Top-Knot With Face Framing Tendrils
These Nubian twists scream fun, playful, and bubbly. Pair them with some cool mom jeans, a white tee, and comfy sneakers, and go live life, boo!
Wrapped Nubian Twist Style
She bodied this look and left no space for anyone else to prosper. And the wrap takes all the credit. It turned this modest look into a jaw-dropping one in a flash.
Honey Blonde Nubian Twists
We love anything blonde. Blonde haircuts, blonde braids, blonde twists, blonde locs, they just look incredibly beautiful no matter how you rock them. She makes us want to hit up our stylist!
Butt-Length Nubian Twists
Is it just us, or do super-long twists give some cool gypsy vibes? Or is it bohemian? Either way, they’re stunning!
Side-Swept Nubian Twists
When you’re feeling a little snarky or cute, sweep your hair to the side, strut your gorgeous self down the street, and break a few hearts on the way to brunch.
Half-Up, Half-Down Nubian Twist
Need we say anything? The bun. Gorgeous. The free-flowing twists. Stunning. Everything you want to do with your hair this summer, right?
Nubian Twist High Pony
The best thing about high ponies is that you can rock them at the office, for a picnic with the girls, on your date night, and when you don’t feel like getting out of bed. It’s a classic!
Nubian Twists Bun With Sexy Bangs
This is one of our favorite Nubian twist styles on this list! The bun is messy (just how we like it), and the bangs/flirty fringe adds a touch of edge to the entire look.
Jumbo Half-Bun Twists
She’s givin’ Zendaya, Lisa Bonet, and Rihanna vibes, and we’re so here for it!
Gray Nubian Twists
Gray hair is sexy. Periodt!
So get your silver dyes and splash some wisdom and beautiful experience to your twists for a head-turning look.
Chunky Twists With Statement Earrings
Thicker twists add volume and dimension to hair. Plus, they look so pretty when put in a high pony, bun, or half-up, half-down style. For daily maintenance, use the OGX Nourishing + Coconut Weightless Oil to seal in moisture and minimize frizz.
Accessorized Nubian Twists
Adorn your twists with beads, cowrie shells, or any other jewelry to add a pop of color and personality to your style.
Braided Nubian Twist Style
Yes, you can also choose to braid your Nubian twists for that classic, girl-next-door look. You can even do a fishtail braid for that sexy bridal look.
Platinum Blonde Twists
If honey blonde isn’t your cup of tea, try these platinum blonde Nubian twists. They’re so sexy!
Brown Goddess Nubian Twists
Goddess Nubian twists are some of the most popular twist options because they’re low-maintenance and can be easily dressed up or down for any occasion.
