Senegalese Twists: How They’re Done, Care and 15 Styles

Senegalese twists, also called rope twists, are a protective style for Afro-textured hair. Smooth synthetic braiding hair is twisted with your natural hair in two-strand twists, creating sleek, rope-like twists that can be worn long, short, up or down.

Here’s how they’re done, how long they last and how to care for them, plus 15 Senegalese twist styles.

How Senegalese Twists Are Done

Wash, deep condition and stretch your hair. It should be at least about 2 inches long so the twists can grip.
Section your hair into small, medium or large parts, depending on the size you want.
Attach the braiding hair at the root of each section, usually with a few braid stitches.
Split the hair into two strands, twist each strand in the same direction, then wrap them around each other in the opposite direction so they lock.
Seal the ends by dipping them in hot (not boiling) water, being careful not to touch your skin or scalp.

Most people use five to eight packs of braiding hair, depending on length and thickness. Kanekalon is a common choice because it grips well.

Senegalese Twist Styles to Try

1. Senegalese Twist Mohawk

Senegalese twists styled into a mohawk with shaved sides

Shaved sides with twists gathered into a mohawk on top make a bold statement.

2. Twisted Side Updo

Senegalese twists swept into a twisted side updo

Sweep the twists to one side and twist them together to keep hair off your face.

3. Deep Side-Part Twists

A deep side part with twists falling over one shoulder.

4. Thick Twists with Highlights

Thick Senegalese twists with light highlights

Thick rope twists with a few lighter strands mixed in.

5. Micro Senegalese Twists

Very small twists look sleek and move freely. Wear them down at first while your scalp adjusts.

6. Half-Up Twist Ponytail

Half-up Senegalese twist ponytail with blonde accents

Big twists with cool-toned blonde accent twists, half up in a ponytail.

7. Senegalese Twist Bun

Rope twists make a full, neat bun. Don’t pull them too tight into the ponytail first.

8. Soft Brown Twists

Small to medium soft brown Senegalese twists

Small to medium twists in a soft dark brown, a subtle way to try color.

9. High Twist Ponytail

Twists make a full, swingy high ponytail.

10. Curly-End Senegalese Twists

Small twists with curly ends look soft and full.

11. Crossed Side Style

Senegalese twists crossed over to one side

Part down the middle, cross sections over to one side and pin for a regal, out-of-the-face look.

12. Blue Senegalese Twists

Braiding hair lets you try bold colors like blue without dyeing your own hair.

13. Jumbo Senegalese Twists

Big twists take less time to install and show off color well.

14. Micro Twists with Straight Ends

Micro Senegalese twists with straight ends

Extra-small parts take patience but give a sleek, fine finish.

15. Curled Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists curled with flexi rods

Set your twists on flexi rods and dip them in hot water for curls that last.

How to Care for Senegalese Twists

Oil your scalp lightly two or three times a week with a light oil.
Wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet at night.
Cleanse your scalp with diluted shampoo every one to two weeks.
Retwist frizzy edges with a little gel or edge control.

FAQs

How long do Senegalese twists last?

Usually six to eight weeks. Leaving them in much longer can lead to matting and breakage at the roots.

Do Senegalese twists damage hair?

Not if they’re installed with gentle tension and removed carefully. Very heavy or tight twists can strain your edges.

Are Senegalese twists the same as Marley twists?

No. Senegalese twists use smooth braiding hair for a sleek finish, while Marley twists use coarser, textured Marley hair for a fuller, more natural look.

Final Thoughts

Senegalese twists are sleek, versatile and protective. For more styles, see our African braid hairstyles.