From Curly to Kinky: Why Barrel Twist Locs Work for Every Hair Type

For a unique, low-maintenance look that suits a range of hair types, barrel twist locs are among the most fashionable and dynamic options. These locs are popular with people who desire a textured, natural look that is easy to maintain while yet being stylish and striking because of their unique spiral twist design. Barrel twist locs could be the ideal option for you if you're a first-time loc wearer, want to try a different twist style, or just want to give your hair some personality.

Barrel twist locs: What are they?

A type of hair loc known as a barrel twist loc is made by twisting the hair in a way that produces a spiral or cylindrical shape. Their consistent, smooth twists that wound tightly to create a cylindrical, locked texture are what define them. Though they differ somewhat in structure, look, and production technique, these twists are similar to mini dreadlocks.

The twists have a distinctive and eye-catching appearance in contrast to other twist types because of their barrel-like or spiral-like form, which is where the word "barrel" originates. Compared to regular locs, barrel twists are said to be less tight, providing greater movement and flexibility while preserving the locked structure associated with dreadlocks.

Typically, two-strand twisting pieces of hair and letting them develop into locs over time results in barrel twist locs. Each segment of hair is twisted using a certain rolling method, which contributes to the spiral-like form. The locs will continue to form and develop as they grow, gaining a fuller and more defined appearance once the twists are set.

barrel twist locs

What distinguishes barrel twist locs from other types of twist and locs?

Although barrel twist locs resemble other loc shapes, they differ in a few ways:

Twist pattern.

The twist pattern alone is what distinguishes barrel twist locs. Barrell twists are uniform and consistent, creating a smooth spiral or cylindrical pattern, in contrast to typical locs or other twists, which may have a more zigzag or irregular appearance. This gives them a bold, textural character while still making them appear tidy and sophisticated.

Flexibility.

Barrel twists are more flexible than regular dreadlocks. They seem softer and more flexible since the twists are not as tight or fixed in place. For those who like the locked look but would rather have greater movement, barrel twist locs are a great option.

Maintenance.

Barrel twists require less retwisting maintenance than traditional locs because they are not as tightly locked. Although barrel twists will not mat as tightly as traditional locs, they will hold their shape over time with regular maintenance, such as washing and conditioning. For anyone looking for a low-maintenance, easier choice, this may be advantageous.

Length and volume variability.

You can perform barrel twist locs on any length of hair, from long flowing tresses to short pixie cuts. The size of the sections and the tightness of the twists may be used to modify the locs' thickness and volume. This gives you a great deal of control over how full or voluminous the final locs seem.

Ways to creat barrell twist locs.

Depending on your comfort level and degree of hair style skill, you may create barrel twist locs at home or in a salon. This is an explanation of the exact steps involved in making barrel twists.

Organize the hair.

It's crucial to properly prep your hair before beginning any loc or twist style. This entails washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to get rid of any buildup and conditioning it to keep it moisturized and manageable. In order to simplify the twisting process, you might also wish to use a leave-in conditioner to untangle your hair if you have natural hair.

Divide the hair into parts.

Section the hair into small to medium-sized pieces. The ultimate thickness of the barrel twists will depend on the size of your sections. Take larger parts if you want thicker, fuller locs. Use smaller parts for a more elegant appearance. As you work, keep the sections in place with bands or clips.

Twist the parts.

Each hair part should be split into two strands. Tightly wind the strands around one another, being careful to maintain neat and even twists. The barrel shape will begin to take shape as you twist. Maintain the consistency and smoothness of the twists by using your fingertips.

Fix the ends.

Secure the ends of the twists when you have twisted the hair all the way down to the ends. You may use a little rubber band to hold them in place or let them curl naturally. To avoid frizz, some people would rather bind the ends with a tiny bit of gel or pomade.

Dry and set.

Before proceeding, let your hair totally dry if you're using a product, such a holding gel or style cream, to set your barrel twists. Depending on the texture of your hair, you can use a hooded dryer, let it air dry, or apply heat. Your barrel twists need to be solid and secured once they have dried.

Upkeeping the barrel twist locs.

The twists will develop into tighter locs as time goes on. Maintaining the fresh appearance of your barrel twist locs requires regular care. To prevent dryness and accumulation, this entails cleaning, retwisting, and periodically hydrating your scalp and locs. Every four to six weeks, you might need to retwist your hair, depending on how quickly it grows.

Man with barrel twist locs

Barrel twist locs for many types of wig hair.

The ability to be customized to fit practically any wig hair type is one of the main benefits of barrel twist locs. Regardless of your wig hair type—straight, wavy, curly, or kinky—barrel twist locs may be tailored to the ideal style for your unique texture.

Straight hair wigs.

Because straight hair tends to resist keeping twists, barrel twists may take a little longer to set on wigs with straight hair. Nonetheless, straight hair wig wearers may produce sleek, polished barrel twist locs with the correct tools and methods. Hair keep the twists from unraveling too soon, it's a good idea hair apply a style gel or cream that provides hold and texture. Straight hair wigs may maintain their twists and offer you a polished, elegant appearance with the correct styling methods.

Curly hair wigs.

Barrell twist locs look great on curly hair wigs because the wig's inherent curl pattern makes it easier for the twists to form and maintain their shape. Due to the texture's natural coarseness, which keeps the twists in place without the need for much product, curly hair wigs make the perfect base for barrel twists. These wigs will easily produce distinct twists that seem fuller and more voluminous.

Coily hair wigs.

Because the natural texture of coily hair wigs offers the proper framework for producing long-lasting, well-defined twists, they are suitable for barrel twist locs. People who wear coily hair wigs frequently discover that their barrel twists develop swiftly and remain in place, producing a stunning, long-lasting loc. Because coily hair is so versatile, you may alter the size, shape, and volume of your locs to fit your own tastes.

Kinky hair wigs.

Barrell twist locs are a great way to provide a gorgeous, full look for people wearing kinky hair wigs. Since kinky hair wigs frequently have a lot of texture, you might want to use a more potent styling product to keep the twists in place. Similar to coily wigs, kinky hair wigs have a wonderful natural texture that makes the twists stay in place with little effort, giving you a textured, full-bodied look.

Wavy hair wigs.

Because of their inherent texture, which makes twisting and styling them simple, wavy hair wigs work well with barrel twist locs. The hair's delicate wave pattern gives the twists a smooth, bouncy appearance by assisting them in maintaining their shape with little effort. Depending on your preferred style, you may change the twist size of wavy hair wigs to get a more defined or loose appearance.

In summary.

For those who want to give their hair more volume, texture, and style, barrel twist locs are an excellent choice. They are ideal for all hair types, including straight, curly, coily, and kinky, due to their adaptable and versatile nature. Without sacrificing the distinct beauty of natural hair, barrel twists provide a chic and low-maintenance method to wear locs. Barrell twist locs provide a classic, stylish appearance that is guaranteed to draw attention, regardless of whether you are new to locs or want to change up your existing hairstyle.