Q: What is the difference between havana twists, marley twists, senegalese twists and kinky twists?

A: Individual twists are an awesome protective style! I actually prefer twists over box braids because they tend to be more gentle on the hair and most importantly!....your edges. To answer this question I’ve gathered the info on all the most popular protective twist styles and put them into 5 groups. The prices quoted are specific to my experience in the US. Read on for my take on this expressive hairstyle!

1. Senegalese Twists

These twists are characterized by being micro to small-sized twists with a shiny appearance. They are created using traditional braiding hair such as kankelon or Xpressions hair. Most shops charge between $125-250 USD, and the sessions can last up to 12 hours in some cases, depending on size & length! This style is beautiful but can cause unnecessary tension on your edges due to their small size and the weight of the hair. If you plan on wearing this style, ask your stylist to make the partings around your edges larger, wear cornrows around your hairline, or get your edges re-done every 4 weeks; oil and wrap your edges every night to reduce tension. 

2. Havana Twists

These twists are the opposite of Senegalese twists: they are large and fluffy, with a kinky appearance. For these twists any type of kinky braiding hair such as Noir Afro Twist Braid, Fingercomber Hair, or Equal Cuban Twist hair will work. These twists are generally cause less stress on the hair due to the larger partings and the lightweight hair. Since the hair is quite kinky, be sure to use lots of leave-in conditioner while braiding and moisturize your scalp with natural oils daily. Prices range from $75-$200 USD and may take up to 6 hours, all depending on the size & length chosen. 

3. Marley Twists

The only difference between Havana Twists and Marley twists is that Marleys tend to be longer and smoother. These two twist styles are so similar that the two names have become interchangeable. Marley twists have a smoother appearance like the Senegalese twists, and a kinky, lightweight feel like the Havana twists. The same kind of hair is used for Marley twists: "marley" or afro twist braid, Cuban twist etc. These are a great protective style because they are versatile and long lasting & aren't particularly hard on the edges with proper care. These twists range from $75-$200 USD and can take up to 6 hours depending on size & length. 

4. Kinky Twists

These twists are essentially shorter marley twists that have been curled on the ends. The same kind of hair is used for this style as the two previous styles. This style is lightweight and lasts a long time. Prices generally range from $100-$200 USD and they take about 5 hours to complete. 

5. Crochet Twists

Crochet braids have changed the entire protective style game! The choices for crochet twists (and crochet braids, period!) are HUGE, ranging from skinny Senegalese twists to long, chunky Havana twists in every color imaginable. They last up to 4 weeks and usually cost around $100 USD and take about 2 hours to do. This makes them a popular choice because they save you time and keep some coins on your pocket! 

Be on the look out for my next post where I explore all the best types of hair for crochet braids. 

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