When we think of natural hair, we often imagine cloud-like afros with gravity-defying bounce. But there's another way to celebrate our texture—the Teeny Weeny Afro (TWA).
Without the weight of length & complexity of protective styling or relaxed hair, our coils have space to breathe with TWA hairstyles. It's a chance to deeply nourish our strands & showcase the versatility of our natural texture while keeping maintenance simple & joyful.
From classic cropped looks that reveal every perfect spiral to modern interpretations with artistic shapes & patterns, TWA styles prove that less length doesn't mean less style. This guide will walk you through the most exquisite ways to enhance & celebrate your TWA hair, helping you discover styles that let your natural beauty shine.
Everyday TWA Hairstyles to Try
Looking at your hair texture is an excellent way to find the perfect styles for TWA natural hair. Whether you have tight, springy coils with natural definition or looser, bouncier curls, there is a TWA style to enhance every gorgeous pattern:
- The Classic TWA – This is the easiest way to showcase your natural texture with short curls. Start with clean hair & apply the PATTERN Leave-In Conditioner. For type 3 hair, work in the PATTERN Curl Mousse from roots to tips for added volume & definition. All hair types can benefit from a light application of the PATTERN Curl Gel to define shape & add hold. Use the PATTERN Blow Dryer for immediate definition or air dry & gently define with our go-to Hair Pick for added volume.
- Finger Coils – Ideal for type 4a & 4b hair, this style creates precise, defined coils. Begin with hair cleansed using the PATTERN Cleansing Shampoo, followed by our Heavy Conditioner. Seal in moisture with the PATTERN Jojoba Oil Blend, then apply a curl enhancer or our Curl Gel in sections. Brush in circles to define your coils, working through small sections.
- Bantu Knots – This is a versatile protective style that works across textures. Part clean, moisturized hair into small square sections. Create two-strand twists with each section, then wrap around the base to form knots & secure with bobby pins. This style can last up to 2 weeks & creates beautiful, bouncy curls when released.
- Puff Variations – This style suits all hair types if your TWA is long enough. Start with freshly cleansed & moisturized hair, smooth back using our Bristle Brush for control. Secure puffs with gentle hair ties, then define edges with the PATTERN Edge Control for polish. Personalize with accessories like barrettes or bows to make the style uniquely yours.
These styles are just simple ideas. Once you start styling your TWA, you will discover even more elegant styles that suit your hair type & show off your beautiful natural texture.
Adding Volume to the TWA
Even short curly hair can achieve otherworldly volume with the right techniques.
If you want to try classic natural TWA hairstyles, start by gently lifting roots while styling, using a hair pick to pick out your strands. After moisturizing & showering, you can add volume with a blow dryer, allowing the heat to naturally fluff your hair.
Keeping Your TWA Moisturized & Healthy
Sometimes shorter hair or low-porosity hair can lose moisture more quickly, especially if you have tighter coils, so it’s important to properly hydrate your locks to help your TWA flourish.
Build a moisturizing routine to support & maintain your curls, & layer your moisturizing hair products in this order:
- Begin with the PATTERN Hydration Shampoo, if it is a wash day
- Follow with our Treatment Mask to deeply nourish your hair
- Seal in moisture with an oil blend suited for your hair type
- Refresh moisture between washes using the PATTERN Hydrating Mist
The most important factor in maintaining moisture is consistency—treat your TWA to regulate deep conditioning sessions, replenish moisture often & protect your hair at night with a bonnet or satin pillowcase.
Top Products for Styling a TWA
The best products for your TWA enhance your natural texture without weighing down your curls.
Try these products to help define your TWA:
- Cleansing Products – Add the PATTERN Cleansing Shampoo to your routine to help remove buildup from natural oils & other styling products. This will help your TWA maintain its natural spring & allow your coils to reach their bounce without being weighed down.
- Volumizing Products – Even your TWA can defy gravity with the right volumizing products. The PATTERN Curl Mousse provides lightweight hold while the Leave-In Conditioner deeply nourishes & defines your hair pattern.
- Hair Smoothing Products – Reduce frizz & keep your TWA looking fresh with the PATTERN Styling Cream to guide your hair into place, the PATTERN Bristle Brush for gentle smoothing & our Shine Spray to enhance your hair’s natural glow.
You should cater your choices to your hair type & experiment with different formulas, amounts & combinations of products to find the routine that makes your curls the happiest.
Tips to Keep Your TWA Looking Fresh
Styling TWA natural hair might be a straightforward task, but a few daily practices can maintain a freshly styled look between washes.
Try these tips to show your crown some love:
- Lightly mist your hair with water in the morning & scrunch to reactivate products.
- Gently fluff with fingertips rather than tools if your hair is feeling overworked.
- Deep condition weekly to keep your coils bouncy.
- Apply products to damp hair for better absorption.
- Keep your shape sharp with regular trims every 4-6 weeks.
With these care practices & products, you can easily make the best of styles for TWA natural hair & help your crown shine in all its glory.
Create Your Favorite TWA Styles With PATTERN
While you keep your crown short & sweet, feel empowered to explore new ways to express your style with your TWA natural hair. At PATTERN, we believe in nurturing & embracing your natural curls with products designed especially for textured hair.
If you’re excited to start exploring new hairstyles with your TWA, browse our collection of curly hair stylers & discover how to make your natural texture shine.
Sources:
Healthline. How to Care for Low Porosity Hair. https://www.healthline.com/health/low-porosity-hair#what-is-it
