Make a French twist

Tuck loose lengths into a pinned updo with a vertical rolled shape. Choose it when you can comfortably support the roll with one hand while placing pins with the other.

Hands-on time (estimate): 5–12 min
Waiting time: None.

When to use it

A French twist rolls gathered lengths upward into a vertical fold at the back of the head and holds the fold with pins.

When dry detangled hair reaches a loose back-of-head gathering and can fold inward without pulling.

Loose shoulder-length or longer hair with enough length to tuck into the roll; short layers may stay outside.

Before you start

Use smooth pins with intact tips. Slide them along the hair, never jab toward the scalp.
Stop if you cannot support and pin the roll with comfortable reach. Remove a pin immediately if it pokes or pinches.

What you’ll need

Clean hands
Smooth bobby pins with intact tips

Make it work for you

Check the situations below before you begin, then follow the steps with those adjustments in mind.

Long ends will not tuck easily

Fold them in gradually

Tuck manageable portions into the roll without stuffing or pulling. Choose a looser style if the roll cannot be held comfortably.

Step by step

STEP 1 OF 4
Gather to one side
- Detangle with your usual gentle method. Put smooth pins within reach and sit upright; use a stable mirror if helpful.
- Sweep the lengths toward one side of the nape and hold them with one hand. Keep the roots relaxed and leave short hairs outside.
STEP 2 OF 4
Set a flat anchor line
- With your free hand, place a few bobby pins along the back-center of the gathered hair to hold the sweep. Keep their tips parallel to the head.
- Check by touch for poking or pinching. Reposition an uncomfortable pin before you roll hair over the anchor line.
STEP 3 OF 4
Roll upward and tuck the ends
- Lift the free lengths upward and turn them inward, opposite the original sweep, to form a vertical roll over the anchor pins.
- Hold the roll with one hand. Use the other to fold loose ends into its opening without tightening the roots.
- Slide more pins across the roll’s open seam to catch its edge and the hair beneath. Keep pin tips along the head, clear of skin.
STEP 4 OF 4
Check the hold and release later
- Lower your hands slowly. If the roll slips, support it before adjusting a pin; avoid tightening the whole style to compensate.
- Turn your head and remove any pin that presses or pokes. The roll should hold comfortably.
- For takedown, support the roll, remove every pin and unfold the lengths. Put pins away before gently separating any snags.