How to Wash Twist Hair for Men

Twist hairstyles like cornrows and dreadlocks are a popular choice among men with curly or African American hair. The rope-like texture of twists can make hair appear longer and give it a cool, edgy look. However, keeping twists clean and fresh requires some care.

Washing twists too frequently can cause them to unravel. At the same time, letting them get too dirty or oily can lead to dandruff, itchiness and other issues. Follow proper techniques to wash and maintain your twist hair.

Benefits of Washing Twist Hair Correctly

• Removes dirt, oil and product buildup from the scalp and hair
• Hydrates the hair and scalp
• Reduces dandruff and itching
• Prevents odor and infections
• Makes twists look fresh and well-groomed
• Helps moisturize and define twists
• Extends the life of your twist hairstyle

Washing too often or harshly can also damage twist hairstyles. Follow the right method to clean your twists adequately without ruining them.

How Often to Wash Twist Hairstyles for Men

• New twists: Avoid washing for 1 week after getting new twists to let them set and tighten.

• Established twists: Wash once every 1-2 weeks. Wash more often if you have an oily scalp.

• Mature twists: Wash every 5-7 days as dirt and oil accumulate faster in older twists.

Listen to your scalp – if it feels itchy or oily, do a wash. Also wash after sweaty activities.

What You’ll Need

• Mild sulfate-free shampoo
• Conditioner for curly hair
• Wide-toothed comb or fingers
• 2 microfiber towels
• Shower cap (optional)
• Natural hair oil or moisturizer

Avoid harsh shampoos as they can cause excessive dryness and breakage.

How to Wash Twist Hair for Men

Follow these steps to properly clean your twists:

1. Detangle first

• Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to gently detangle your twists.
• Remove any knots, dirt and loose hair before washing.
• Detangling makes washing easier and prevents further tangling.

2. Wet hair thoroughly

• Wet your hair with lukewarm water, not hot.
• Ensure water reaches the scalp and down the length of the twists.
• Soak for 2-3 minutes so hair is fully saturated.

3. Apply diluted shampoo

• Dilute a quarter-sized amount of shampoo in water.
• With your fingertips, gently massage it only into your scalp, not the length of twists.
• Focus on areas with more dirt and oil buildup.

4. Rinse out shampoo completely

• Rinse hair under running water. Do not rub or tangle twists.
• Continue rinsing until water runs clear.
• Gently squeeze twists to remove excess water.

5. Apply conditioner

• Apply a nickel-sized amount of conditioner from roots to ends.
• For extra conditioning, put on a shower cap for 5 minutes before rinsing out.
• Rinse until conditioner is fully removed.

6. Dry twists gently

• Squeeze out excess water with a towel. Do not rub hair.
• Air dry or use a hooded dryer on low heat.
• Let hair dry fully before styling to avoid mildew.

7. Moisturize and style

• Apply a natural oil or twist cream while hair is still damp.
• Style twists as desired once completely dry.

Tips for Washing Twist Hair

• Use lukewarm water only, as hot water can damage twist hair.

• Dilute shampoo to limit dryness and frizz.

• Detangle hair gently before washing to prevent further tangling.

• Rinse thoroughly – leftover shampoo can cause itching and flakes.

• Limit washing to twice a month max to maintain twists.

• Pat dry, do not rub wet hair harshly with a towel.

• Let hair dry fully before restyling to prevent mildew in damp twists.

How to Maintain Twists Between Washes

• Use a dry shampoo or witch hazel between washes to absorb excess oil.

• Frequently moisturize hair and scalp with natural oils to prevent dryness.

• Sleep on a satin pillowcase to minimize friction.

• Wear a shower cap when bathing to keep twists dry.

• Use styling products like gels sparingly to limit buildup.

• Protect hair from sun, wind and chlorine damage.

When to Take Special Care

• New twists: Handle very gently, limit washing initially.

• Mature twists: Moisturize regularly, wash buildup out frequently.

• After swimming or exercise: Wash out chlorine and sweat promptly.

• Cold dry weather: Moisturize well to prevent breakage.

• Hot humid weather: Wash more often to counter oil and sweat.

Signs It’s Time to Wash Twists

Wash your twists if you notice:

• Increased shedding and breakage
• Visible dirt and oil accumulation
• Itchy or irritated scalp
• White flakes or dandruff
• Foul odor from hair
• Increased tangles and frizz
• Limp, undefined twists

When to Avoid Washing Twists

Avoid washing twists in these cases:

• Right after a fresh install – wait 1 week minimum
• If hair has any tangles – detangle first
• When strapped for time – washing requires drying time
• If hair was heat-styled recently – avoid wetting
• In very cold or hot water – use lukewarm water only

How Often to Retwist Hair

• Get twists retightened every 4-6 weeks to maintain a neat appearance.

• Some natural retwisting may be needed between salon retightening.

• Use retwisting creams or gels to twist up loose sections of hair.

Signs Your Twists Need Retwisting

• Roots looking loose and puffy
• Twists appearing thin and wiry
• Hair sticking out messily between twists
• White flakes of buildup at the roots
• Overall frizzy, shrunken appearance

Retighten twists as needed to keep your hairstyle looking dapper.

Conclusion

Twist hairstyles allow men with curly or kinky hair to add length, thickness and style versatility. With the right washing techniques and maintenance, twists can look great for 4-8 weeks. Be gentle when washing, use moisturizing products, and retwist when roots get loose. Your diligent hair care will keep those fresh twists popping!