40 Island Twist Hairstyles You Should Try

by Zaineey June 1, 2023

written by Zaineey June 1, 2023

Island Twist are versatile protective hairstyles that are trending now and hairstylists have been trying this and adding it to their book list. This hairstyle is similar to boho braid hairstyles by adding the curling hair mid-way, just a difference in extension and application. Islands twists are also known as bohemian twists.

What are Island Twists?

Island twists involve sectioning the hair into small, equal-sized parts and then twisting synthetic or natural hair extensions and curly hair extensions along with the natural hair from the roots to the ends. The result is beautiful and it is a low-maintenance hairstyle that can be worn for 6 to 8 weeks.

Island twist hairstyles offer numerous benefits, including protection for your natural hair, versatility in styling, and the ability to retain length and promote hair growth. They can be worn in various lengths, from short to long, and can be styled in different updos, ponytails, or left loose. Scroll down to check for inspiration.

What hair should I use for island wists?

Use Jamaican twist braid hair and a few packs of curly human hair or synthetic hair

How to Do Island Twists?

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how island twists are typically achieved:

1. Preparation

Start by washing and conditioning your hair to ensure it’s clean and moisturized. Detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. It’s important to have smooth, tangle-free hair before beginning the twisting process.

2. Sectioning:

Divide your hair into small, manageable sections using a rat-tail comb. The size of the sections depends on your preference and the desired outcome. Smaller sections will result in more intricate twists, while larger sections will create chunkier twists.

3. Extension attachment:

If you choose to use synthetic hair extensions, prepare them by separating them into individual strands. Take one strand of the extension and fold it in half. Place the folded end of the extension against your natural hair, with the loose ends pointing downward.

4. Twisting:

Begin twisting the extension and your natural hair together. You can twist in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on your preference. Add a little shine and jam to secure the style

Start to twist the hair down and when it is about four times, take a piece of the human hair and start to twist it in so you just literally Loop it in between, twist each side, and then start to twist down a little bit to secure it. Now put the long piece of human hair aside so you don’t twist that part down. Then twist down some more until almost the end of the twist.

Now add the human hair and twist and braid down a couple of times. Like before, put the long human hair aside. Now divide the remaining extension into 3 parts and braid down until you reach the ends of your hair and the extension.

5. Securing:

Once you’ve reached the end of the twist, secure it by gently wrapping the extension around the natural hair or you can secure it with super glue, this will help keep the human hair intact and prevent it from unraveling.

6. Trimming:

Trim the ends of the hair to give a neat look.

7. Repeat:

Continue the process of sectioning, attaching extensions and human hair, and twisting until you’ve completed your entire head. It may take some time and practice to achieve a consistent and uniform look throughout your hair.

Maintenance

Island twist hairstyles are known for their longevity. To maintain your twists, you can tie them up at night with a satin scarf or sleep on a satin pillowcase to minimize frizz and preserve the hairstyle. You can also apply a lightweight oil or moisturizer to your scalp to keep it hydrated.