Finger coils are a beautiful and effective way to define natural curls, especially for those with Type 3 and Type 4 hair textures.
Whether you’re rocking a teeny weeny afro (TWA) or shoulder-length coils, this technique enhances your curl pattern, adds volume, and gives your hair a polished, sculpted look—all without the need for heat or complicated tools.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to achieving perfect finger coils:
Step 1: Start with clean, damp hair
Wash and condition your hair using products that moisturize and soften. Finger coils work best on freshly cleaned, detangled hair. Towel-dry gently or use a cotton T-shirt to remove excess water, keeping your hair damp but not dripping.
Step 2: Detangle and section
Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to your hair and detangle thoroughly with a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush. Divide your hair into small sections using clips or your fingers—smaller sections result in more defined coils.
Step 3: Apply styling product
Use a curl-defining cream, gel, or a combination of both to each section. Make sure the product is evenly distributed, from root to tip. Look for formulas with hold and moisture to prevent frizz and flaking.
Step 4: Coil with your fingers
Take a small section of hair (about the width of a pencil) and twirl it around your finger from root to end. Twist until the coil forms a tight spiral and bounces back slightly. Repeat throughout your entire head.
Step 5: Air dry or diffuse
Allow your hair to air dry completely, or use a diffuser on a low heat setting. Avoid touching the coils while drying to prevent frizz and maintain definition.
Step 6: Separate for volume (optional)
Once fully dry, gently separate the coils with oiled fingers if you want more volume. Be careful not to disturb the curl shape too much.
Finger coils can last up to a week or more with proper nighttime care—just wrap your hair in a satin scarf or sleep on a silk pillowcase to keep the coils intact. With a little patience and practice, finger coils can become a go-to style for defined, healthy-looking curls.
