Twists

Hair Braiding Twists

Twists, on the other hand, are a slightly more modern style, but they’re just as gorgeous. Solange Knowles was spotted wearing Havana twists at the 2013 Roots Picnic, inspiring countless other black women and girls to sport twists as a fun alternative to braids and dreadlocks.

The main difference between box braids and twists is the technique. Box braids are installed by intertwining three strands of hair, while twists require only two strands to be wrapped around each other.

If you’re not sure what to choose, here are a few factors to consider: Twists weigh less on the scalp and require more maintenance because they’re quicker to unravel, but Taylor tells Bustle that they “age more gracefully than braids,” because your roots blend in with the twists as they grow out. Opt for braids if you prefer a sleeker look since twists are fluffier in appearance.

Dandridge says that one thing braids and twists have in common is that they’re both protective styles, which means you also want to choose a stylist who won’t destroy your natural hair.