Finger coils have become a beloved go-to style among women with natural hair, especially those with tighter curl patterns like 4C hair. This low-manipulation, defined curl hairstyle is not only beautiful and versatile but also serves as a great way to promote healthy hair growth. Whether you're rocking short hair or long coils, there's a version of this look that works for every naturalista.
In this blog, we'll dive into everything you need to know about finger coil hairstyles, including finger coils on 4C hair, curly hair, short hair, and how to do them. Let’s get coiling!
What Is Finger Coils Hair?
Finger coils are a styling technique that involves twirling small sections of hair around your finger to encourage curl definition. This method works well on natural hair types ranging from 3A to 4C, and especially shines on tightly coiled textures that benefit from enhanced curl definition.
Finger Coils for Different Hair Texture
Finger Coils on 4C Hair
4C hair holds finger coils exceptionally well due to its tight curl pattern. The coils are springy, long-lasting (often 2–3 weeks), and require rich creams or butters to keep moisture in. Apply oil to your fingers during styling to reduce frizz and boost shine.
Finger Coils on Curly Hair
Curly hair (3A–3C types) benefits from finger coils by enhancing curl definition and adding uniformity. Use lightweight gels or curl creams to avoid weighing the hair down. This style also works well as a base for twist-outs or braid-outs.
Finger Coiling Wavy Hair
Though wavy hair doesn’t coil naturally, finger coiling can enhance texture and create more defined waves or curls. Use mousse or light gel and wrap small sections around your finger. The result is a soft, tousled curl look with added volume.
Finger Coils on Natural Hair
Finger coils work beautifully on all types of natural hair, offering a structured look while highlighting your natural curl pattern. Best applied on freshly washed, detangled, and damp hair, they help train curls over time and give your hair a polished shape.
Finger Coils on Afro Hair
Afro-textured hair thrives with finger coils, especially in short to medium lengths. The dense texture supports the coil structure, creating a bold, defined style. A curl-enhancing cream or gel will help maintain shape and keep the coils neat and moisturized.
Finger Coil Hairstyles to Try
Whether you're new to the world of natural hair or looking to switch up your go-to look, finger coils offer numerous styling options:
1)Classic Finger Coils
Neat, single coils all over the head for a polished, elegant look.
2)Loose Finger Coils
Soft, stretched coils with a more relaxed curl pattern—great for wavy or loosely curled hair types.
3)Long Finger Coils
Creates elongated, defined coils that show off length and movement; works best with gel for hold.
4)Short Hair Finger Coils
Perfect for TWAs (teeny weeny afros), this style is neat, low-maintenance, and easy to define for beginners.
5)Finger Coil Dreads
A starter method for forming dreadlocks—finger coils are left to mature into locs over time.
6)Finger Coil Locs
Defined coils used as a foundation for traditional or semi-freeform locs, ideal for natural hair locking.
7)Colored Finger Coils
Add a fun twist to your finger coils with temporary or permanent color.
How To Do Finger Coils Hair?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving beautiful finger coils at home:
Start with Clean Hair: Wash and deep condition your hair.
Detangle Thoroughly: Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush.
Section Hair: Divide your hair into small, manageable sections.
Apply Product: Use a leave-in conditioner followed by a curl cream or styling gel.
Coil the Hair: Take a small section and twirl it tightly around your finger from root to tip.
Dry and Set: Air dry or use a hooded dryer. Avoid touching while drying.
Style and Maintain: Once dry, you can leave the coils as is or separate them for volume.
How Long Do Finger Coils Hair Last?
With proper care, finger coils can last 1 to 3 weeks. Here are tips to extend their longevity:
- ◆Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet
- ◆Avoid excess manipulation
- ◆Use a light oil to refresh curls
- ◆Spritz with water and leave-in for moisture
You can also transform the look into a finger coil-out for added volume after the first week.
Finger Coiling Hair Vs Scrunching Hair
| Feature | Finger Coiling | Scrunching |
| Definition | Twisting small sections around your finger to create defined curls | Squeezing damp hair upward to enhance its natural curl pattern |
| Best For | Tightly curled or coily hair (3B–4C) | Wavy to loose curly hair (2A–3B) |
| Time Required | Longer, more detailed styling (30+ minutes) | Quick method (5–10 minutes) |
| Curl Definition | High – uniform, defined curls | Medium – enhances natural curls, but less uniform |
| Style Longevity | Can last 1–2 weeks with proper care | Typically lasts 1–3 days before needing refreshing |
Final Thoughts
Finger coils are more than just a style—they are a celebration of natural beauty, texture, and versatility. Whether you’re styling finger coils on 4C hair, curly textures, short styles, or long natural hair, the results are consistently stunning. Easy to maintain and endlessly chic, finger coils should definitely be in your natural hair styling rotation.
Ready to rock this timeless look? Grab your curl cream, find your favorite tunes, and start coiling your way to a head-turning hairstyle!
