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Make a three-strand twist

Practice the repeating three-strand exchange on one reachable section. Keep the strands separate and the root relaxed, then let the twist dry before taking it apart.

Step by step

  1. A man holds three separate strands from one section of his own damp hair.
    STEP 1 OF 3

    Divide one section into three

    • Start with damp detangled loose hair after any chosen label-directed styling preparation. Choose a front or side lock you can see and reach.
    • Keep neighboring hair aside. Divide that lock into three similar strands and hold their free ends separately without tightening the root.
  2. A man carries one strand across both other strands while making a three-strand twist.
    STEP 2 OF 3

    Repeat the same three-way exchange

    • Look at the three strands in your hands. Carry the leftmost over both the middle and right strands until it becomes the new rightmost.
    • Exchange finger holds to separate all three again. Take the strand now farthest left over both others to the far right.
    • Repeat down the section while keeping the ends separate. This is always the same crossing direction, not alternating a normal braid.
    • Stop before your grip becomes awkward at the tips. Let the ends curl together gently; do not pull the root to make the twist tighter.
  3. A man gently separates the three ends of his dried twist for takedown.
    STEP 3 OF 3

    Dry and reverse the crossings

    • Remove any sectioning clips and let the twist air-dry. For a twist-out, check the root and inner section as well as the surface before taking it apart.
    • When fully dry, start at the tips. Reverse one crossing at a time, letting the three strands separate naturally as you work toward the root.
    • Pause to ease apart any catch with your fingers. Do not drag a comb through the intact twist.

One practice twist, preparation and later release; detangling and a full head take additional time.

Unmeasured editorial handling estimate for the stated scope. Familiarity, access and the item or hair being handled change the time.

You’re done when…

Three strands form one comfortable rope, the whole section dries and its crossings can be reversed from the ends without pulling.