40 Twist Hairstyles for Men & What Makes Them Unique

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Plus, easy styling tips for maintaining your trendy twist ‘do
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From simple 2-strand twists to cornrows to locs, there are a ton of twist styles for guys to choose from. If you’re ready for a new look, keep scrolling to see 40 different twist styles and what makes them stand out. We’ve even included styling tips to help you rock your new ‘do, with insight from hair stylist and master braider Ndeye Anta Niang and master hair stylist Jasmin Todd.

Types of Twist Braids for Guys

When you’re choosing a twist style, consider what flatters your hair type and texture, plus the way you want to wear and style your hair. For example, choose classic 2-strand twists for the most versatile look, flat twists for definition, or chunky twists for a bold look. Also consider how long the twists will last.

1

Classic 2-Strand Twists

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  1. Two-strand twists are versatile, low-maintenance, and highlight natural hair. The hair is divided into sections that are twisted 2 at a time. When twisting the hair, 2 strands of hair are wrapped around each other from root to tip, resulting in neat, defined, rope-like coils. Two-strand twists help protect natural hair, minimize breakage, and work for many hair lengths and types.[1]
    • Styling tip: Use curl cream or mousse for hold before finger-coiling the twists.
    • Todd says that “twists can be done a few different ways: wet, damp, or on dry hair. Wet twists are done with a styling gel or cream, damp twists with a leave-in conditioner or curl cream, and dry twists with an oil or moisturizer. The results may vary depending on the technique and product used.”[2]
    • A protective hairstyle is a heat-free style that hides hair ends to shield the hair from damage, heat, and environmental stresses. It can help reduce breakage and encourage overall healthy hair growth.[3]

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Ndeye Anta Niang is a hair stylist and master braider with over 20 years of experience in African hair, including braiding box braids.

    Jasmin Todd is a master hair stylist with over 22 years of experience cutting and styling naturally curly hair.

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2

Rope (Senegalese) Twists

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  1. Senegalese twists are known for their rope-like appearance. Two strands of hair are twisted around each other like a rope. Once the hair is sectioned, 2 stands are twisted in opposite directions (e.g., both clockwise), while rolling them around each other tightly, followed by an opposite twist to create a rope-like look. Senegalese twists can vary in size and length and are typically sealed by knotting or dipping the twists in hot water.
3

Twist with Undercut

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  1. The twist with undercut contrasts clean, short sides with thicker twists on top. This style includes 2-strand or comb twists with very short sides and back. The twists on top are left longer, while the disconnected undercut can be very short to shaved. This style works well for curly or wavy hair.[5]
    • Styling tip: Create definition on top with gels or creams while brushing the undercut to keep it neat.
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4

Medium Length Twists

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  1. Medium twists help protect hair from environmental damage. Sections of hair are twisted to an overall medium length. The end result can range from loose, messy looks to patterns that include zigzags or mini twists. This easy option allows you to wear your twists hanging loose or in a bun or ponytail.[6]
5

Triangle Twists

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  1. This style features triangular parts in the scalp with neat, defined 2-strand twists. The hair is parted diagonally to create small to medium-sized triangle shapes. To do so, make a straight part across the back of your head before creating a diagonal part with your comb. Alternate the next section so the diagonal is in the opposite direction to form a "V" or "W" pattern. Each triangle section is styled into a twist (usually 2-strand) to form a rope-like pattern.
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6

2-Strand Box Twists

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  1. The style creates a defined, rope-like pattern that can easily be customized. The hair is parted into square (box) sections and split/twisted into 2 strands. Once the hair is parted and split, twist them around each other to create rope-like coils. The style helps highlight the natural texture of hair and can be worn after being twisted out.
7

2-Strand Loc Twists

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  1. Loc twists provide a foundation for having twists with curls or waves. Dreadlocks or loose hair are sectioned into 2 strands. Once the strands are twisted around each other, loc twists can be worn up, down, or with fades. Loc styles produce even spirals that can be secured using clips or elastics.
    • Styling tip: Avoid over-twisting at the root to prevent damage.
    • Loc twists differ from classic 2-strand twists because the hair is left to intentionally mat into permanent cylindrical formations over time.[7]
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8

3-Strand Twists

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  1. 3-strand twists result in tighter, frizz-resistant curls. Each section of hair is divided into 3 strands, which are then twisted. All 3 strands are twisted in the same direction and wrap around each other to form one defined twist. The rope-like 3-strand twists offer more definition and less frizz than 2-strand twists.
    • Styling tip: Use your fingers to coil the ends for definition, along with a pick for blending.
9

Stretched 2-Strand Twists

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  1. Stretched twists can help retain hair’s length and moisture. Twist sessions of hair into 2 strands after stretching or blowing them out. Stretching out the hair beforehand helps create length, definition, and movement. The twists can range from small or micro-sized to large, and are super versatile to wear.
    • Styling tip: Apply curl cream section by section and enhance the stretch using clips or bands.
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10

Voluminous Twists

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  1. These twists are thicker, dramatic, and can make a bold statement. Divide and twist hair into 2 strands or flat twists (wrapped around themselves). After twisting, blow-dry the hair, which gives the style body, softness, and a "fluffy" feel.
    • Styling tip: Unravel dry twists to fluff up the roots with a pick or your fingers.
11

Elevated Box Twists

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  1. These twists use extensions to create neat, box-shaped sections. Lift up thicker 2-strand twists after sectioning the hair into square-shaped parts. The signature upward lift of the twists for this style can be achieved via the precision of the square (box) parted sections and twists; either focus the twists on the crown of the head, use thicker twists, or create an updo/bun for a fuller, more “high-top” look.
    • Styling tip: Braid some stitches at the root to hold while sealing the ends with a braid or twist.
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12

Short Twists

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  1. Short twists keep hair tucked away, which reduces tangles and breakage. Hair is divided into sections and twisted into 2-strand twists or flat twists. The twist sizes can range from "mini-twists" (which provide the most volume for the longest amount of time) to larger, chunky twists. Twists created from twisting short hair can be worn loose, in a bun, or combined with fades.[8]
    • Styling tip: After applying gel or curl cream, secure the ends with rubber bands, or add volume by teasing the roots.
13

Twists With an Undercut Design

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  1. These twists include a pattern, along with buzzed sides and back. The top hair is twisted into defined ropes or coil patterns, usually with shorter, twisted hair on top. It’s otherwise defined by boldly shaved or faded sides, which create a sharp disconnect between the top and the sides/back.
    • Styling tip: Maintain the shaved sides through regular trims; apply gel to moisturize the top hairs.
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14

Kamikaze Twists

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  1. Kamikaze twists have sharp, precise parts created on an angle. Individually coil 2-strand twists around a clean, defined part. The 1-strand twists are coiled clockwise to create a tight rope-twist texture. The resulting twists look neat, precise, and sculpted. Kamikaze twists usually feature a clean part that is sometimes triangular or square.[9]
15

Wavy Part Twists

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  1. These twists use a wavy hair extension for a more relaxed style. Create 2-strand twists while sectioning the hair to create a wavy part. Once the sections are divided and twisted around each other, the hair is sectioned using a non-straight parting technique—follow a curved or zigzag path with a tail comb for a unique look that stands out among twisted hairstyles for guys.
    • Styling tip: Lightly mist the twists with water to refresh your waves the next day.
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16

Mini Twists

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  1. Mini twists include smaller sections of 2-stand twists for a low-maintenance look. Divide the hair into smaller sessions before creating 2-strand twists. Mini twists are ideal for short or medium natural hair because they create fluffy twists similar to small dreadlocks or locs that help add volume to shorter hair.
    • Styling tip: Twirl the ends of the twists around your finger with some gel or cream to seal and prevent frizz.
17

Zigzag Part Twists

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  1. This fun twist style uses zigzag patterns to stand out. Use a comb to create a sharp, criss-crossing zigzag pattern. The hair is sectioned according to the zigzag lines and then twisted, sometimes using a small braid at the root. Zigzag twists can range from tight cornrows or stitch braids to larger, flowing twists.
    • Styling tip: Apply sea salt spray before finishing with a light hairspray or pomade for added texture.
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18

Flat Twists

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  1. Flat twists secure hair flat against the scalp to lessen breakage. Keep the twists flat against the head while moving down the scalp. Flat twists use the 2-strand method while keeping the twists flat to create clean, flat parallel rows of twists. The flat twists can appear as straight lines, curved patterns, or combined with other designs.[11]
    • Styling tip: Start with damp, detangled hair and use a styling cream or gel for hold.
19

Accessorized Twists

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  1. It’s possible to adorn almost any type of twist with decorative items. Accessories that can be attached to the ends of the twists include hair cuffs or rings, beads, colored string, or different charms. Accessorized twists can be worn hanging down, pulled into a man bun, or along with fades or cornrows on the scalp.[12]
    • Styling tip: Experiment with adding accessories to the ends, middle, or near the roots.
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20

Loose Textured Twists

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  1. This style utilizes larger twists or added extensions to create a texture. 2-strand twists more loosely for a relaxed-looking texture. Twisting the hair less tightly avoids a more compact, defined look in place of having more natural movement and volume. Loose textured twists tend to have a more puffy appearance and are less prone to frizz.
21

Passion Twists

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  1. Their softer, more relaxed appearance gives passion twists a boho vibe. Secure a small piece of hair and twist the hair in one direction. The smaller amount of hair is usually first secured with a rubber band before performing the one-direction twist. It’s secured at the end, sometimes with a knot, to create a looser spiral. Passion twists are similar to Senegalese twists, but appear more natural.
    • Styling tip: Try dipping the ends in hot water to prevent unraveling.
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22

High Top Twist

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  1. This look pairs 2-strand twists with a faded or tapered haircut. Form twists using longer hair on top and wear with short back and sides. The hair is divided into sections and twisted into 2-strand or flat twists using longer hair on top of the head. The high top twist is worn with short or faded sides and back made to look like a high-top fade, which was popular during the 80s and 90s.[13]
    • Styling tip: Apply products evenly to each section before twisting on damp hair to lock in moisture.
23

Sponge Twists

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  1. Sponge twists create defined coils for short, natural hair. Clump hair into twists using a curl or twist sponge. A curl sponge is a sponge with holes or ridges used to form patterns with hair; moving it in circular motions helps form twists. The sponge method creates a textured, dreadlock-like appearance.[14]
    • Styling tip: Gently lift the roots with a pick or twirl individual coils using your fingers for more volume.
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24

Strand Comb Twists

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  1. Stand comb twists are a popular way to create locs. Use a rattail comb to create twists with a single section of hair. The comb is inserted at the base of a small section of damp, moisturized hair. It’s then twisted to form a tight, springy coil, which sits close to the scalp. The strand comb method is popular for starting dreadlocks.
    • Styling tip: Use a gel or foam on the section for grip and definition.
25

Twisted Starter Locs

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  1. These locs offer a neat, defined look in the early stages of growing locs. Use the 2-strand method to begin twists (called “locs”). Twisted starter locs are the first step in the process of permanently locking hair into mature twists. Section the hair and form 2-stand twists. They initially look neat and defined, with a visible twist pattern that slowly disappears as the hair matures and buds start forming.
    • Styling tip: Apply locking gel or styling foam to hold.
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26

Twisted Fishtail

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  1. A twisted fishtail incorporates side rope braids into a center fishtail braid. Cross small strands over while creating twists. Section hair and begin forming 2-strand or flat twists at the scalp. At some point during the process, take small strands from the outer edges of each section and cross them over to the opposite side to form an “X” pattern; continue with the rest of the hair.[15]
    • Styling tip: After braiding and securing the end with an elastic band, gently pull on the edges of the braid, making it thicker and messier.
27

Short (2-Strand) Loc Twists

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  1. These loc twists provide a base for maturing locs, or can be worn unraveled. Create 2-strand twists on shorter hair to create locs. It’s also easy to begin the twisting process for short hair by creating short-style locs. Create 2-strand twists by sectioning hair and twisting each section using 2 strands at a time, from the root to the tip.
    • Styling tip: Spray the twists with water before applying leave-in conditioner and a light oil.
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28

Twists With a High Fade

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  1. This style combines textured top twists with a high fade on the sides and back. Create twists on top to wear with short or shaved sides. This style often uses mini-twists or flat twists to form a more defined texture on top. The sides and back are either extremely short or shaved; it starts high up near the temples.
    • Styling tip: Apply pomade or clay by working it in from the roots in your desired direction.
29

Chunky Twists (Colored Ends)

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  1. Large sectioned twists show off bright color on their ends. Make thick twists using the 2-strand method before coloring the ends. This variation still involves twisting sectioned hair around each other, 2 pieces at a time, using thicker sections of hair. The ends are dyed using a vivid color, like blonde, blue, or red, for added boldness.[16]
    • Styling tip: Choose unique shapes like squares, triangles, or diamonds to make the color stand out even more.
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30

Twists with Cornrows

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  1. This style pairs cornrows and twists for an easy-to-maintain look. Transition from making flat-twisted cornrows into 2-stand twists. First, create cornrows close to the scalp before forming 2-strand twists to be worn loose. The cornrows often use flat 2-strand twists instead of 3-strand cornrows to reduce scalp tension.[17]
    • Styling tip: Coil the ends of the twists with your fingers for a more defined look.
31

Box Twists with a Mid Fade

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  1. Box twists on top are worn with a taper fade on the sides and back. Pair structured twists with a clean, sharp fade on the sides and back. Divide the top section of hair into box-shaped parts and then create 2-strand twists. The hair gradually tapers to a fade on the sides and the back of the head.[18] The fade ends very short or at skin level, just above the ear.
    • Styling tip: Use a light leave-in spray or oil so your twists remain hydrated.
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32

Mid-Length Twists With Elastics

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  1. Using elastics at the roots or ends makes securing this style easy for beginners. Section and twist medium-length hair before securing it with elastic bands. After twisting hair that is between chin and shoulder-length into sections and twisting them, place small elastic or rubber bands around the ends.
    • Styling tip: After applying leave-in spray or oil, try starting the twists with a short braid at the root for added security.
33

Colored Loc Twists With Dreadlocks

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  1. Loc twists become modern by adding ombre, highlights, or bright colors. Gather sections of hair to style into larger 2-strand twists. Then, apply full color to the ends of the locs for an ombré effect or dye the entire length of the locs with a bold shade, like platinum blonde, burgundy, or copper.[19]
    • Styling tip: Regularly retwist the locs to keep the roots neat and the style healthy.
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34

Dreadlocks (With Elastics)

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  1. Use elastic bands to secure the locs while styling them. Secure the locs with small rubber bands at the roots, the ends, or along the length of the loc to keep them looking neat. This method also encourages budding (when starter locs transition into more permanent buds) and helps a style stay in place.
    • Styling tip: Keep the bands loose enough to allow for slight movement and not cause breakage.
35

Marley Twists

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  1. This style uses textured Marley hair extensions to look like dreadlocks. Wrap a piece of Marley (extension) hair at the root before twisting. After the hair is divided into sections and the Marley hair is wrapped, twist the 2 together counter-clockwise down the hair shaft. The ends can be sealed with hot water or left alone for a more natural look.
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36

Center-Parted Flat Twists With a Mid Fade

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  1. This look combines flat twists on top with a modern mid fade. Style longer hair on top into flat twists with a center part, and tapered sides and back.[20] Section the hair and form flat twists close to the scalp, similar to cornrows. The clean center part allows the twists to fall toward both sides of the face. The hair at the sides and back tapers around the temple area, about halfway up the sides of the head, to a skin level near the ears and neck.[21]
    • Styling tip: Scrunch a small amount of matte clay or pomade into the twists and gently run your fingers or a comb to separate the parted sections and shape the "curtains.”
37

Spring Twists

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  1. Spring twists use coily hair extensions to add to bouncy, natural-looking twists. Use coily extensions to twist into your natural hair. After the hair is sectioned, 2-strand twists are created using coily extensions (springs) and natural hair. The addition of extensions helps create a more springy, defined curl pattern for the twists.
    • Styling tip: Start with a braid at the root before using a consistent twisting direction to keep the twists uniform.
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38

Stretched Twists With a Skin Fade

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  1. Stretched twists on top stand out from the bare sides and back. Stretch the twists by using a blow dryer to wear with a skin fade. The hair on top needs to be long enough to style into 2-strand twists, during which they’re stretched with the heat of a blow dryer to lengthen. The sides and back of the head are cut to skin-level at the base of the hairline.[22]
    • Styling tip: Spritz the twists with water and light oil daily.
39

Box Comb Twists With a Fade

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  1. Box twists look more modern when paired with smooth tapered sides and back. Section hair with a comb before forming box twists with tapered sides and back.[23] After the hair is sectioned into square box-shaped parts with a rattail comb, use a fine-toothed comb to twist the hair. The back and sides of the head gradually fade from a longer length to very short or skin level around the nape and ears.
    • Styling tip: Apply a lock and twist gel to keep the twists holding their shape.
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40

2-Strand Twists With Puzzle-Shaped Parts

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  1. These puzzle-shaped twists offer a unique, creative visual. Form interlocking sections of twisted hair using geometric shapes. Instead of square or box-shaped sections, the hair is sectioned into interlocking jigsaw-like puzzle piece shapes. Then, the sectioned hair is still twisted together using 2 strands of hair at a time. The resulting twists are voluminous, chunky, and textured.
    • Styling tip: Apply mousse or styling gel to each section before raking through it with your fingers.

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Tips

  • Be detailed about the length of hair you want on top and whether you’re looking for a fade/taper or undercut on the sides and back.[24]
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  • When asking for a twist hairstyle at the barber or salon, bring reference photos and specify the size of the twists you want (small, medium, or large).
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  • Ensure your hair is clean and product-free before getting twists.
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.moderngentlemanmagazine.com/35-ideas-for-2-strand-twist-men-styles/
  2. ↑ Jasmin Todd. Master Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://youtu.be/7k1eSZ8yrzE?si=ja2P5wFW3PzjC73u&t=64
  4. ↑ Ndeye Anta Niang. Hair Stylist & Master Braider. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://www.menshairstylestoday.com/twist-hairstyles-for-men/
  6. ↑ https://www.moderngentlemanmagazine.com/35-ideas-for-2-strand-twist-men-styles/
  7. ↑ https://frohub.com/best-mens-afro-hair-salons-london-two-strand-twists-braids/
  8. ↑ https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/style/237587-creative-twist-hairstyles-men-2024/
  9. ↑ https://www.coilsandglory.com/two-strand-twists-hairstyles-for-men/
  1. ↑ Ndeye Anta Niang. Hair Stylist & Master Braider. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/style/237587-creative-twist-hairstyles-men-2024/
  3. ↑ https://www.coilsandglory.com/two-strand-twists-hairstyles-for-men/
  4. ↑ https://www.moderngentlemanmagazine.com/35-ideas-for-2-strand-twist-men-styles/
  5. ↑ https://www.menshairstylestoday.com/twist-hairstyles-for-men/
  6. ↑ https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/style/237587-creative-twist-hairstyles-men-2024/
  7. ↑ https://www.menshairstylestoday.com/twist-hairstyles-for-men/
  8. ↑ https://www.moderngentlemanmagazine.com/35-ideas-for-2-strand-twist-men-styles/
  9. ↑ Barry Hairston. Professional Barber. Expert Interview
  10. ↑ https://www.coilsandglory.com/two-strand-twists-hairstyles-for-men/
  11. ↑ Barry Hairston. Professional Barber. Expert Interview
  12. ↑ https://www.coilsandglory.com/two-strand-twists-hairstyles-for-men/
  13. ↑ https://www.coilsandglory.com/two-strand-twists-hairstyles-for-men/
  14. ↑ Barry Hairston. Professional Barber. Expert Interview
  15. ↑ https://mattiethebarbher.com/TrendingMensHaircutsandHowtoAskYourBarberforThem.html

About This Article

Barry Hairston
Co-authored by:
Barry Hairston
Professional Barber
This article was co-authored by Barry Hairston and by wikiHow staff writer, Maryana Lucia Vestic, MFA, M.Phil.. Barry Hairston is an award-winning master barber and men’s grooming specialist. With more than a decade of experience, Barry operates TheStarsBarber Lounge in Dallas and has been recognized as a Top 50 Global Barber by Feedspot. He has collaborated with multiple brands, including Gillette, StyleCraft/Gamma, Bosley, Hanz de Fuko, and Happy Head. Barry has built a reputation as Dallas’ A-List Barber and has worked with professional athletes, on-air personalities, and celebrity clients. Barry has built an online community of 100K on Instagram, where he creates men’s grooming content.
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