Passion twists are the cutest hairstyle these insanely beautiful inspo shots proved so

Passion twists always have and always will be an elite protective style for the Afro and curly-haired girls. They're low-tension so not only do they provide a protective shield for Afro and curly-haired girlies, but they also can seamlessly transform from braids to beautifully defined, bouncy curls once undone.

Passion twists are a variation of Senegalese twists, which have been popular for decades, and they have evolved in style as well as popularity along the years. What sets them apart is their unique bohemian-inspired texture and the method of installation.

One of the primary benefits of passion twists is that they are gentle on Afro and curly hair. Unlike some protective styles that can create excessive tension and strain on the scalp, passion twists are installed with minimal pulling, reducing the risk of breakage and hair loss. They also work hard as a protective style as they shield natural hair from environmental stressors, helping to retain moisture and minimise damage.

Then, once you're ready to switch up your look, passion twists can also be unraveled to reveal the bounciest, most gorgeous defined curls. This versatility allows you to transition effortlessly between protective styling and flaunting your natural texture.

“Passion twists and crochet locs are the ultimate natural hairstyles that look wonderfully bohemian for the summer months,” says award-winning and celebrity hairstylist Dionne Smith, who specialises in natural hair textures and has worked with the likes of Venus Williams, Mel B, Regina King and Kiki Layne. “The reason they're so on-trend is because they're a much quicker way to wear protective styles without your stylist spending hours creating them – they're a quicker, more modern take on single braids or twists.”

Then enter crochet braids, that are very similar to passion twists.

“Crochet braids tend to be created using a crochet needle and weaved into cornrows, which is done so that you can wear the hair down or up, and it looks seamless both ways. Finishing these looks with individual braids, boho locs or passion twists just around the hairline is the perfect natural-looking solution.”

“Passion twists have a nice texture and they are lightweight but still look full and bouncy. They're also applied the same way and you can style them up how you choose.”

Dionne recommends going to an experienced hairstylist initially. “Go to a professional who can do braids and crochet for the install, as they can get it to look polished and perfect as they can see the back of your hair, too. Also, your stylist can make sure the braids are laying in the right direction throughout the scalp, so I would book in an appointment unless you are very hair-savvy and want to give it a try yourself!”

The best part about passion twists and crochet locs? The minimal upkeep. “Maintenance on these styles are very low and you don't need much to make these protective style looks good,” says Dionne. “But to vamp them up and keep them looking healthy, simply add a little shine spray. For longevity and to avoid tangles or frizz ruining the style, I also recommend wrapping them up in a bun at night whilst you sleep.”

A 5-step guide on achieving passion-twists from home:

What you'll need:

• Hair extensions: You can use synthetic hair extensions. Usually 5-7 packs should be sufficient for a full head of passion twists
• Wide-tooth comb: For detangling and parting hair
• Rat-tail comb: For creating precise partings
• Hair clips or rubber bands: To section your hair and keep it organised
• Moisturising leave-in conditioner: To hydrate natural hair
• Edge control or gel: To smooth edges for a neater look
• Hair mousse or setting lotion: To blend natural hair with the extensions
• Hair ties: To secure the ends of the twists
• Hair cutting scissors: For trimming and shaping twists

Start with clean, detangled, and moisturised natural hair. Divide your hair into sections using your wide-tooth comb. The size of the sections will determine the thickness of your twists. Secure the rest of your hair with clips or rubber bands, leaving one section to work on at a time.

Take a small section of the synthetic hair and fold it in half to create a loop at the top. Slide this loop under the base of your natural hair section, leaving a small loop at the top. Pull the ends of the synthetic hair through the loop to create a knot, securing the extension to your hair. Begin twisting the synthetic hair with your natural hair, alternating the direction as you go.

Continue twisting the synthetic hair and your natural hair together all the way down. Add more synthetic hair as needed while maintaining even tension. Repeat this process for each section, making sure the twists are consistent in size and tightness.

Use a hair tie or rubber band to secure the ends of each twist. Optionally, you can dip the ends in hot water to seal them, which helps prevent unraveling.

Once all your twists are in place, use edge control or gel to smooth down your edges for a polished look. You can also use hair mousse or setting lotion to set your twists and help them blend seamlessly with your natural hair.

Keep your passion twists clean by using a lightweight leave-in conditioner and gently cleansing your scalp as needed. Cover your hair with a satin bonnet or scarf at night to protect your twists.

Okay now you have the 411 on how to achieve the look from home, it's time to put it into practice.

Now for some inspo shots:

For more from Glamour UK Beauty Writer Shei Mamona, follow her on Instagram @sheimamona

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