As you might expect, there are a ton of adorable natural hairstyles, but nothing compares to the classic twist out and braid. But what’s the difference between the two? Which one would you choose?
In that you place twist outs all over your head, they are similar to braid outs. The only distinction is that you are not creating braids but twisting and holding down sections of hair.
Braid Out Vs Twist Out
Here are the differences between a braid out and a twist out;
| Braid out | Twist out |
| There is less shrinkage with a braid-out hence the look is more stretched out with ‘longer’ curls | Results in less elongated hair as it suffers more from shrinkage |
| Works well on shorter hair | Works best on longer hair |
| Results in less frizz | More frizzy compared to braid-outs |
| Compared to twist-outs, they are more difficult to accomplish and take longer to install. | Easier to both install and take down |
| Results in a wave-like curl pattern | Result in a spring-like, bouncy curls |
| Does not last as long as twists out | Lasts longer compared to a braid out |
About Braid Out
What is a Braid Out?
Unbraiding three hair strands creates a hairstyle known as a braid out. Your natural hair looks better with this style while also giving it more texture.
Hair with braid outs has a defined wave-like curl pattern that is enhanced.
It’s not difficult to create braid-outs, and once the hair is undone, it can be styled in a variety of ways, including buns, high or low puff styles, and braids.
Advantages of a Braid Out
- makes your natural hair appear longer and more stretched.
- Works well on shorter hair.
- compared to twist-outs, less frizzy.
Disadvantages of a Braid Out
- In comparison to twist-outs, they are more difficult to perform.
- They take a longer time to install and take down
How to Do a Braid Out
What you’ll need:
- Leave-in conditioner, oil, moisturizer
- Hairbands
- Spray bottle
- Silk scarf
Steps
- Start off with clean hair. Wash and condition the hair
- Proceed to moisturize using the LCO or LOC method
- You can either use braided cornrows or free hanging braids
- For the free hanging braids, part the hair into sections especially if you have voluminous hair. Pick a section and section out some hair and braid it from root to top using 3 strand method
- Make large, 4-6 cornrows out of your hair and braid them with three strands for the cornrows. The technique heavily borrows from the normal braid except you start braiding with a small section and keep borrowing hair to add to the braid as you go along
- Let the hair dry overnight by covering your hair with a silk scarf while you sleep or go under a drier
- Rub some small amounts of oil on your fingers after the braids have dried, then carefully untie. Gently split the curls and comb the roots for a fuller look
About Twist Out
What is a Twist Out?
Twist outs can be created by plaiting two strand twists or flat twists onto well-moisturized hair, letting the twists dry, and then unraveling them.
You must allow your twist outs to sit for a few days or over the course of an entire night in order for them to turn out properly.
Advantages of a Twist Out
- Installation is less difficult.
- They last longer
- Results in a more defined curl pattern
Disadvantages of a Twist Out
- When hair is a little longer, twist-outs work best.
- leads to hair that is less long.
- As opposed to braid-outs, they are prone to becoming frizzier.
How to Do a Twist Out
What you will need
- Leave-in conditioner, oil, moisturizer
- Hairbands
- Spray bottle
- Silk scarf
Steps
- Wash and condition the hair
- Proceed to section the hair into small buns
- For each bun, take out a smaller section
- If there are any knots, remove them by applying oil, leave-in conditioner, or any hair gel.
- Start twisting the hair in a flat twist, a single strand twist, or a two strand twist.
- Hair that is too wet will not give a well-defined curl pattern
- Cover your head with a scarf and let it set overnight before unraveling. You could also go under a drier if you want the results quicker
- Gently split the curls and comb the roots for a fuller look
- Style the hair as desired
How Long Do Twist Outs Last?
With proper care, twist-outs can last 1-2 weeks. Maintain moisture on the ends, and wait as long as you can for the twists to set before unwinding them. Your hair will be shielded if you wear a satin or silk bonnet.
How Long Do Braid Outs Last?
If cared for properly, braid-outs should last 5-7 days. When braids are done tightly, the braid outs have more definition and last longer.
Conclusion
A braid out produces a more stretched, wave-like curl pattern, whereas a twist out produces a bouncy, spring-like curl pattern. This is the primary distinction between braid outs and twist outs. Twist-outs typically last longer than braid-outs but exhibit more shrinkage and frizz.
FAQs
Is Twisting and Braiding the Same Thing?
The method is the main distinction between box braids and twists. Twists only require two strands of hair to be wrapped around each other, whereas box braids require the intertwining of three.
Which is Better Braids Or Twists?
Contrasting the twist and the braid. While twist has a quick plaiting process that makes it difficult to maintain, braid is a low-maintenance hairstyle. Twists are easier to style even though you have just plaited them, whereas braids last longer and you may not style them right away.
What Are the Benefits of Twist Outs?
The goal of a twist out is to achieve even wave or curl distribution throughout your hair, as many women have tighter texture in one area of their head than they do in another.
