(Circa 2010)
By Chinwe of Hair and Health
Mini twists are essentially tiny twists, much smaller than the diameter of a pencil. In some cases, mini twists are so small that the hair may appear loose rather than twisted.
THE GOOD:
Mini twists last longer — anywhere from three to six weeks — than larger twists. Because they are so small, they tend not to frizz and age as quickly. This is great news for those who want to leave their natural hair alone for several weeks at a time.
Not only do mini twists last longer, they also allow for more versatility in styling. Because they are so small, it is much easier to achieve a range of styles than with larger twists. A lot of the styles can mimic those on loose natural hair.
(In 2013)
THE NOT SO GREAT:
Mini twists can take hours to a day or two to install or take down. This can be a challenge if you have to be somewhere or you just do not have the time or patience. In terms of helping with patience, watching a few movies or television shows can help pass the time. When it comes to needing to be somewhere, some naturals prefer to start their mini twists in the front or along the perimeter of their hair so that they can “fake the finished look” if they haven’t completed the twists in time.
THE BAD:
Single-strand knots and locking are more likely to occur in mini twists than in larger twists, especially for those with tightly-coiled, kinky strands. In order to prevent locking, try not to wear this style for longer than four weeks. Five or even six weeks might be pushing the limit, but then again, if your hair can handle it, then go for it. (Twisting technique also matters; the tighter and stronger your twisting, the longer you can wear the style.) Additionally, redoing the twists (weekly or biweekly) along the edges and nape may be necessary to minimize locking and meshing.
(Smallest ever done; in 2010)
ARE THEY FOR YOU?
If you lack patience, then mini twists may not be for you. Patience is necessary during the installation and takedown in order to avoid breakage.
If you wash your hair frequently, then mini twists may also not be for you. Washing the protective style can encourage single-strand knots and locking over time. Naturals with tightly-coiled hair should be extra cautious when wearing this style being sure to monitor their hair for meshing and locking.
If you desire a long-term protective style that offers versatility, but do not quite have the patience to install mini box braids, then these sort of twists may be a viable option.
If you have fine strands, then there is a chance that mini twists may not be for you. I find that a lot of fine-haired naturals experience more single-strand knots, tangles, and ultimately breakage with this style due to the diameter of their strands.
At the end of the day, do what works for you and your hair!
Ladies, what has been your experience with mini twists?
