Top 25 Senegalese Twists Trends for Diamond Face Shapes

Senegalese twists have long been a cornerstone of protective styling, offering a sleek, sophisticated, and versatile alternative to traditional box braids or cornrows. Known for their smooth texture and rope-like appearance, these twists protect natural hair while providing a canvas for endless creativity. However, the secret to truly rocking this style lies in customization—specifically, tailoring the twists to complement your unique facial structure. For those graced with a diamond face shape, the possibilities are particularly stunning.

A diamond face shape is characterized by high, dramatic cheekbones that represent the widest part of the face, accompanied by a narrower forehead and a tapered chin. It is a rare and striking structure, often shared by celebrities like Rihanna and Halle Berry. The ultimate goal when styling hair for this shape is to balance the width of the cheekbones while adding softness and volume near the chin and forehead. Senegalese twists are the perfect medium for this, as their fluidity allows for strategic volume placement and framing.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 25 Senegalese twists trends specifically optimized for diamond face shapes. We have categorized these trends by length and styling technique to help you navigate your next salon visit with confidence. Whether you prefer a short, sassy bob or waist-length drama, there is a variation here that will accentuate your best features.

Understanding the Diamond Face Aesthetic

Before diving into the specific trends, it is crucial to understand the architectural approach to styling a diamond face. Because the cheekbones are the focal point, styles that pull hair tightly back without any framing can sometimes make the face appear overly angular or severe. The magic of Senegalese twists lies in their ability to be manipulated. By adjusting the parting, length, and volume, stylists can create visual illusions that soften the angles.

For diamond shapes, side parts are generally more flattering than center parts. A deep side part disrupts the symmetry of the face, drawing the eye across the features rather than focusing strictly on the width of the cheeks. Additionally, styles that add width at the chin—such as bobs or textured ends—help to balance the tapered jawline. Conversely, adding width at the temples can help balance the narrower forehead area.

Senegalese twists offer a distinct advantage over other braid types because they utilize Kanekalon or Toyokalon hair, which provides a smoother, silkier finish. This texture reflects light beautifully, adding a touch of glamour to any look. When these twists are installed with the diamond face shape in mind, the result is a harmonious blend of structure and softness that highlights natural beauty without overpowering it.

The Short & Chic Collection: Bobs and Lobs

Short styles are incredibly effective for diamond faces because they draw attention to the jawline and neck, adding necessary width to the lower half of the face. Here are the top trends in this category.

1. The Asymmetrical Bob Twist

One of the most flattering styles for a diamond face is the asymmetrical bob. By keeping one side slightly longer than the other, you create a diagonal line that softens the cheekbones. The shorter side exposes the neck, while the longer side frames the face, providing a chic, modern silhouette that is low maintenance yet high impact.

2. Chin-Length Blunt Cut with Curved Ends

A blunt cut that hits exactly at the chin helps to widen the appearance of the jawline. For Senegalese twists, this is achieved by burning and sealing the ends to create a slight inward curve. This curvature cups the chin, counteracting the sharpness of the diamond shape's lower taper.

3. The Textured Shoulder-Grazer

Slightly longer than a bob, this style hits just above the shoulders. The key trend here is leaving the ends loose and curly (often referred to as Goddess twists). The volume at the bottom of the hair balances the cheekbones perfectly, creating a triangular silhouette that is very complimentary.

4. Side-Swept Lob (Long Bob)

A long bob that rests on the collarbone, styled with a deep side part, is a classic choice. The side sweep covers a portion of the forehead and one cheekbone, effectively reducing the apparent width of the face's center. This asymmetry is the diamond face shape's best friend.

5. Chunky Bob Twists

While micro twists are popular, opting for a chunkier size in a short style adds immediate volume. For a diamond face, this volume should be concentrated towards the bottom of the style rather than the roots. This bottom-heavy weight distribution anchors the look and balances the facial structure.

Mid-Length Magic: Versatility Meets Style

Mid-length twists offer the best of both worlds: enough length to style into updos, but short enough to remain lightweight. These trends focus on layering and face-framing.

6. Layered Face-Framing Twists

Ask your stylist for layers that start at the cheekbone and cascade down. Face-framing layers break up the vertical lines of the twists, softening the overall look. The shortest layer should hit right at the hollow of the cheek to accentuate the bone structure without widening it.

7. The Half-Up, Half-Down Top Knot

This style works wonders by adding height to the crown, which elongates the face, while leaving the remaining hair down to frame the neck. For diamond faces, ensure a few loose twists are left out around the temples to soften the forehead area.

8. Medium Twists with Spiral Ends

Adding spiral curls to the ends of mid-length Senegalese twists introduces a romantic, bohemian vibe. The curls add volume around the neck and chest area, drawing the eye downward and balancing the sharp angles of the face.

9. Side-Parted Mid-Back Twists

A simple, straight-back style can be transformed by the parting. A deep side part that allows the hair to drape over one eye creates a mysterious, alluring look that minimizes the width of the cheekbones. This is a timeless trend that works for both casual and formal settings.

10. Accessorized Mid-Length Twists

Using hair jewelry like cuffs and gold wire at eye level or lower draws attention away from the widest part of the face. Placing accessories near the ends of the twists can also help add visual weight to the jawline area, aiding in the balancing act required for diamond shapes.

Long & Luxurious: Drama and Elegance

Long Senegalese twists are iconic. They provide a vertical line that elongates the body and neck. For diamond faces, the goal is to ensure the length doesn't drag the face down, but rather frames it elegantly.

11. Waist-Length Micro Twists

Micro twists offer a density that mimics loose hair. When worn long and parted on the side, they act like a curtain, gently obscuring the width of the cheeks. The sheer volume of micro twists allows for fluid movement, which is essential for softening angular features.

12. The Goddess Senegalese Twist

This trend involves interspersing curly strands throughout the twists or leaving the ends significantly wavy. The added texture creates a softer, more ethereal look. The curls disrupt the straight lines of the twists, providing a contrast that softens the sharp chin and cheekbones of a diamond face.

13. Ombré Effects (Dark Roots to Light Ends)

Color plays a huge role in face shape styling. Keeping the roots dark (matching natural hair) and transitioning to a lighter color (like honey blonde or copper) at the jawline and below draws the eye downward. This visual trick widens the lower face, balancing the tapered chin.

14. Jumbo Long Twists

Jumbo twists make a bold statement. When styling these for a diamond face, ensure they are not installed too tightly at the hairline to avoid tension. The sheer size of the twists adds volume around the shoulders, which complements the narrow chin characteristic of this face shape.

15. The Waterfall Twist Look

By pulling back only the top section of the hair loosely and letting the rest flow, you create a waterfall effect. This keeps hair off the face (showing off those great cheekbones) while the flowing back section provides a backdrop that softens the silhouette.

Creative Updos and Styling Variations

One of the main benefits of Senegalese twists is their styling versatility. These specific updos and arrangements are selected for their ability to flatter diamond faces.

16. The Loose Low Bun with Tendrils

A tight high bun can sometimes emphasize the angularity of a diamond face too much. Instead, opt for a loose low bun at the nape of the neck. Pull out two or three twists on each side to frame the face. These "tendrils" cut the width of the cheekbones and add a romantic touch.

17. The Pineapple Updo

Gathering the twists loosely at the top of the head (the "pineapple") adds vertical height. This works well for diamond faces as long as the sides aren't pulled too tight. The cascading twists from the top soften the forehead and add volume to the crown.

18. Braided Crown or Halo

Using the twists to create a halo braid around the head adds width to the forehead area, which is typically narrower on a diamond face. This balances the upper part of the face with the wide cheekbones, creating a more oval appearance.

19. Space Buns with a Twist

Playful and trendy, space buns (two buns on top of the head) add volume to the top corners of the face. This helps widen the appearance of the forehead. Leaving the back half of the hair down ensures the neck and chin area doesn't look too bare or tapered.

20. The Side Swept Ponytail

Instead of a straight-back ponytail, sweep the twists to one side and secure them low. Bringing the mass of hair to one side creates asymmetry and widens the jawline area visually. It is an elegant style perfect for evening wear.

Color and Texture Innovations

The final five trends focus on how color and texture manipulation can alter the perception of face shape.

21. Peekaboo Color

Adding bright or contrasting colors underneath the top layer of twists creates depth. When the hair moves, the pops of color near the neck and jawline draw attention to the lower face, balancing the chin.

22. Burgundy and Red Tones

Warm tones like burgundy, cherry red, or copper are excellent for bringing warmth to the face. These colors tend to soften sharp features. A full head of burgundy twists can make the skin glow and reduce the harshness of angular bone structure.

23. Mixed Texture Hybrids (Passion Twist Hybrid)

Combining the sleekness of Senegalese twists with the fluffiness of passion twists creates a hybrid texture. This "messy" or textured look is far more forgiving on angular faces than bone-straight styles, adding necessary softness.

24. Blonde Face-Framing Highlights

Using lighter colored extensions specifically for the twists closest to the face (the "money piece" effect) can open up the face. However, for diamond shapes, start the highlight lower down, near the cheek hollows, to avoid widening the cheeks further.

25. Grey and Silver Blends

The trend of embracing grey or opting for metallic silver extensions is huge. The metallic sheen reflects light, which can soften facial shadows. A silver ombre that gets lighter towards the ends is particularly effective for balancing the diamond silhouette.

Essential Maintenance for Senegalese Twists

To keep your twists looking fresh and your natural hair healthy, a robust maintenance routine is required. Regardless of the style you choose, the health of your scalp and edges is paramount.

Scalp Care: Since the scalp is exposed, it is vital to keep it moisturized. Use a lightweight oil such as jojoba or peppermint oil to soothe itchiness and prevent dryness. Apply oil 2-3 times a week, massaging it gently to stimulate blood flow.

Nighttime Routine: Always protect your twists at night. Use a silk or satin bonnet, or sleep on a satin pillowcase. This prevents friction, which causes frizz and can lead to breakage at the hairline. For longer styles, consider putting the twists in a loose pineapple or large braid before covering them.

Washing: You can wash Senegalese twists, but focus on the scalp. Dilute shampoo in an applicator bottle with water, apply directly to the scalp, and massage gently. Rinse thoroughly to prevent product buildup. Avoid vigorous scrubbing of the twists themselves to prevent unraveling and frizz.

Duration: It is generally recommended to keep Senegalese twists in for no longer than 6 to 8 weeks. Leaving them in longer can lead to matting at the roots and excessive tension on the hair follicles, which is counterproductive to protective styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Senegalese twists heavy for the head? A: They can be, depending on the length and thickness. However, Senegalese twists are generally lighter than box braids because they use less hair per section. If you are concerned about weight, opt for short to mid-length styles or micro twists.

Q: What is the best hair to use for Senegalese twists? A: Kanekalon hair is the most popular choice due to its texture, which holds the twist well. Toyokalon hair is also an option; it is lighter and silkier but may unravel easier if not sealed properly.

Q: How do I stop my twists from unraveling? A: The ends must be sealed properly. This is usually done by dipping the ends in hot water (which also sets curls if desired). For a straight look, the hot water shrinks the synthetic fibers, locking the twist. Some stylists may also use a small amount of nail glue or a lighter for blunt ends, though hot water is the safest method.

Q: Can I swim with Senegalese twists? A: Yes, you can swim, but chlorine and salt water can dry out your natural hair underneath. It is advisable to rinse your hair with fresh water immediately after swimming and apply a leave-in conditioner spray. Note that wet twists can be very heavy.

Q: Will Senegalese twists damage my edges? A: They should not damage your edges if installed correctly. Ensure your stylist does not grip the fine hairs at the hairline too tightly. If you feel pain or see bumps, the style is too tight. Regular moisturizing and avoiding high-tension updos also help protect edges.

Q: Why are they called Senegalese Twists? A: The style originated in Senegal, West Africa. It is a technique deeply rooted in African culture, where hair braiding is a social art form passed down through generations.

Conclusion

Senegalese twists offer a perfect blend of protection, style, and cultural heritage. For those with a diamond face shape, they provide a unique opportunity to play with geometry, texture, and volume to highlight your striking cheekbones while bringing balance to the forehead and chin. From the edgy asymmetrical bob to the romantic goddess twist, the top 25 trends listed here prove that there is no shortage of options.

When choosing your next style, consider your lifestyle, your tolerance for weight, and the specific features you want to accentuate. Consult with a professional stylist who understands face shapes to ensure the installation is tailored to you. With the right care and the perfect style, your Senegalese twists will not only protect your natural hair but also serve as a stunning expression of your personal aesthetic.