The Art of Cornrow Twists: Why Natural Hair Should Always Be This Cool
Let’s talk about something that’s been woven into the fabric of history, culture, and even our very identity—cornrows and natural hair twists. It’s a statement of style, a shield of protection, and a celebration of beauty, all rolled into one. If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, chances are you’ve seen some fierce, stylish folks rocking cornrow twists, and you’ve probably thought, “How do they do that?” or “Can I pull that off?” Spoiler alert: you absolutely can!
In this blog, we’re going to dive deep into the world of cornrow natural hair twists—why they’re a game-changer for your hair, how to make them your own, and why you should embrace your natural hair with pride. Trust me, by the end of this, you’ll be grabbing that comb and rubber bands, ready to slay.
First, What Are Cornrow Natural Hair Twists?
Before we get into the details, let’s break down what we’re actually talking about. Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle where the hair is braided very close to the scalp in neat, tight rows. Now, when we mix that with twists—like, two-strand twists where your hair is twisted rather than braided—you get cornrow natural hair twists. This combination brings the best of both worlds: the sleek, uniform style of cornrows with the softness and versatility of twists.
The beauty of this style is that it works for any hair type, especially for natural textures. It’s a way to show off the curls, coils, and kinks of natural hair while keeping it neat, stylish, and manageable. Plus, it’s a low-maintenance hairstyle that can last anywhere from a week to a month, depending on how well you take care of it. Oh, and did I mention it’s an absolutely stunning look?
Why Cornrow Twists Are the Ultimate Protective Hairstyle
Let’s talk about the real power of cornrow twists: protection. If you’ve ever had your hair in a twist-out, you know how amazing your curls look after, but what about when you need a break from all that manipulation? Here’s where protective styles like cornrow twists come in. They keep your hair tucked away, shielding it from harsh weather, breakage, and damage.
Natural hair can be temperamental. The frizz, the shrinkage, the moisture struggles—it’s real. But when you put your hair into protective styles like cornrow twists, you’re giving your hair the chance to rest, grow, and thrive. And let’s face it, sometimes the best way to avoid that awkward “I have no idea what to do with my hair today” moment is to just braid it up and be done with it.
A good cornrow twist can also help lock in moisture, which is a game-changer if you’re dealing with dry hair. It keeps your strands hydrated and protected, especially if you add oils or hair creams during the installation process. Not only are you looking fly, but your hair is actually thanking you for it.
Types of Cornrow Twists That Will Have You Turning Heads
Now, here’s the fun part. There are so many ways to rock these cornrow natural hair twists. You can make them your own by mixing in different elements to suit your style, your vibe, and, let’s be real—your mood for the week. Let’s explore a few options:
1. Classic Cornrow Twists
This is the style that’s been around for centuries and still manages to look effortlessly chic. Neat rows of cornrow twists laid flat to the scalp, all uniform and smooth. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance look that still makes a statement, go for this classic style. You can wear it straight back or get a little creative with curved or zig-zag rows. Add beads or cuffs for an extra pop of personality!
2. Mohawk Cornrow Twists
Feeling bold? Go for a mohawk cornrow twist. The middle of your head is braided in cornrows while the sides are left to do their own thing (maybe shaved, maybe just free). This style is perfect for those who want a little more edge without sacrificing the beauty of cornrow twists. It’s rebellious, cool, and screams “I’ve got confidence, and I’m owning it.” Plus, it’s a great way to experiment with shaved or faded designs on the side—hello, artistic hair vibes!
3. Cornrow Twist Updo
Who says you can’t elevate the cornrow twist for formal events? A cornrow twist updo is the perfect way to style your hair for a wedding, party, or fancy date night. You can wrap your twists into a bun, or pin them up for a cute, controlled look that still shows off your natural texture. Add a statement hair clip, and you’re good to go.
4. Twist Braids with Natural Hair
Twist braids, when done in cornrow style, give you the ultimate versatility. Whether you choose a thicker twist or something finer, these braids can be dressed up or dressed down. They’re perfect for people who want the best of both worlds—twists for softness and braids for a sleek finish. This hybrid style can be worn long, short, or even as a bob, depending on your length and preferences.
How to Make Cornrow Natural Hair Twists Like a Pro
So, you’re sold on the idea of cornrow twists. You’ve seen the style on Instagram, and now you’re ready to try it out. But how do you actually get those perfect rows and smooth twists? It’s easier than you think, but it’s also a little time-consuming (it’s worth it, though).
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Before you do anything, start by washing and conditioning your hair. You want a clean base so that your twists last as long as possible. Apply a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and moisturized. A little oil or hair cream can also help keep the hair smooth and manageable while you work.
Step 2: Part Your Hair
Next, decide how you want your sections to look. You can go for neat, even sections or create more free-flowing parts depending on the vibe you’re going for. Use a rat-tail comb to make your parts as clean as possible.
Step 3: Start Twisting
Once you’ve parted your hair, it’s time to twist. Take a small section of hair, divide it into two, and start twisting them around each other. Work from the roots down to the ends. When you reach the end of the twist, secure it with a small elastic band or just leave it loose. If you’re doing cornrows, you’ll start close to the scalp and work your way down, braiding tightly as you go.
Step 4: Set and Style
Once you’ve completed the twists, you can add some finishing touches. A little edge control or gel can help smooth down any frizz around your hairline. If you’ve got some creative flair, why not add beads, cuffs, or other hair accessories to personalize your look?
The Real Beauty of Cornrow Twists
It’s easy to get caught up in the visual appeal of a hairstyle, but the real beauty of cornrow natural hair twists lies in how they make us feel. There’s something empowering about embracing your natural hair and wearing it with pride. Whether you’re showing off your heritage, expressing your individuality, or just keeping it cute, these twists offer a way to connect with yourself and your culture in a very real, very personal way.
Plus, let’s not forget how these twists stand as a reminder that we, as Black women, are often expected to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. Cornrow twists are a way to say, “I’m proud of my hair, and I’m going to rock it however I please.” That’s the kind of confidence that everyone should strive for, regardless of hair texture, body shape, or style preferences.
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, cornrow natural hair twists are not just a hairstyle; they’re a statement. They’re a way to protect your hair, show off your natural texture, and take control of how you express yourself through beauty. Whether you’re rocking a simple classic look or stepping up the game with a mohawk, there’s a cornrow twist for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your comb, put on your favorite playlist, and get twisting. Because with cornrows, you’re not just styling your hair—you’re styling your life.
