Bestie, if you’ve ever wanted a defined, long-lasting style that makes your 4C curls pop, you’ve probably thought about doing a mini braid out or a mini twist out. Both styles are amazing, but they give different results, and knowing which one works best for your hair goals is key. Let’s break it all down so you can decide which one is perfect for you.

What is a Mini Braid Out?

A mini braid out is when you braid small sections of your hair and then unravel them after they’ve dried. The result is a beautifully defined, wavy curl pattern with a lot of stretch.

Pros of a Mini Braid Out:

• Gives more stretch than a twist out, reducing shrinkage.
• Provides great definition with a crimped, wavy look.
• Lasts longer than a twist out because braids hold their shape better.
• Reduces tangles and knots since the hair is kept in braids longer.

Cons of a Mini Braid Out:

• Takes longer to install and take down since braids require more precision.
• The definition may be too uniform for some, lacking the natural, chunky curl look of a twist out.
• If not properly moisturized, braids can feel drier because they hold less moisture than twists.

Find more braids and braid out related posts here.

What is a Mini Twist Out?

A mini twist out is when you install small two-strand twists also called mini twists and later unravel them to create a soft, defined curl pattern. It’s one of the easiest go-to styles for 4C hair.

Pros of a Mini Twist Out:

• Easier and faster to install compared to mini braids.
• Gives a more natural, fluffy, and voluminous look.
• Holds more moisture since twists allow easy product penetration.
• More lightweight and doesn’t put as much tension on the scalp.

Cons of a Mini Twist Out:

• Shrinks more than a braid out, making the hair appear shorter.
• Doesn’t last as long as a braid out since twists can loosen faster.
• Can cause more tangling, especially at the roots, when worn for a long time.

Find more posts related to twist outs here.

How to Install a Mini Braid Out

1. Start with freshly washed, deep-conditioned hair to ensure your strands are moisturized and ready for styling. Use a hydrating deep conditioner like the SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Hair Masque to keep your hair soft.
2. Apply a leave-in conditioner like Creme of Nature, Argan Oil for Hair, Perfect 7-in-1 Leave-in Treatment and seal with an oil like the Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp and Hair Oil for lasting moisture.
3. Section your hair into small parts and apply a styling product like the Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter for hold and definition.
4. Braid each section tightly but not too tight to avoid breakage.
5. Allow the braids to dry completely, either air drying overnight or using a hooded dryer for faster results.
6. Once dry, apply a little oil to your hands and gently unravel each braid to avoid frizz.
7. Separate the curls for more volume and fluff as desired.

How to Install a Mini Twist Out

1. Follow the same prep routine with a deep conditioner, leave-in conditioner, and sealing butter or oil to keep your hair hydrated.
2. Part your hair into small sections and apply a styling cream like the SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie for a soft, defined twist out.
3. Twist each section, making sure to twist tightly at the roots for a neat look.
4. Let the twists dry completely before unraveling. This can take up to a full day depending on how thick your hair is.
5. Once dry, apply a light oil like the The Mane Choice Alpha Multi-Vitamin Scalp Hair Growth Oil, to prevent frizz while separating the twists.
6. Fluff the roots with a pick or your fingers for added volume.

Related post: Mini Twists vs. Mini Braids on 4C Natural Hair

Which One is Best for You?

It all comes down to your hair goals and how much time you’re willing to spend on styling.

• If you want more definition, more length and longer-lasting curls, a mini braid out is the way to go.
• If you prefer a fluffier, more voluminous look with less manipulation, a mini twist out is perfect.
• If you need more stretch and less shrinkage, go for a braid out.
• If you want a style that keeps your hair well-moisturized, a twist out works better.

Mini twist out is my personal favorite, I love me some bouncy, defined curls. Mini braid outs would be my favorite if they were easier to install.

How to Make Both Styles Last Longer

Regardless of which style you choose, maintaining it properly is important. Here are a few tips to make sure your braid out or twist out lasts as long as possible:

• Sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf to prevent frizz and retain moisture.
• Moisturize lightly every few days with a water-based leave-in spray like the Maui Moisture Frizz-Free + Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Mist to keep your hair hydrated.
• Retwist or rebraid at night in bigger sections if needed to refresh the curls.
• Use a light hold gel like the Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Recipes Don’t Shrink Elongating Hair Curling Gel if you want extra definition and longevity.

Both mini braid outs and mini twist outs are great styles for 4C hair. Whether you want stretched waves or fluffy curls, you can’t go wrong with either. The best part? You can switch between both styles depending on your mood. Have you tried both styles before? Which one is your favorite?