Photo Courtesy of Simply Cyn

Protective styling is a term we constantly hear in the natural hair community. It is used to protect the ends of our hair, which can help with length retention. Protective styling can be really affordable and easy to install. With the many different options that are available and step-by-step tutorials, you can find the protective style that is right for you. If you love to wear your hair in twists, this is the ultimate guide to find the best protective twist extension style for your curls.

Havana and Marley Twists

Havana and Marley twists are great protective styles to consider. They are trendy, easy to install, and is a great heat-free option of styling. Now, these two styles are popular and they can look similar. What is the difference between Havana and Marley twists? The hair is what makes them different. Havana twists require Havana hair, which can be purchased at Fingercomber.com. Marley twists require Marley hair, which can be less expensive than Havana Hair. It also gives it more of a textured look. If you are struggling between these two hairstyles and want to know more differences between the two, check our this article.

Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists, also known as rope twists, are very similar to Havana and Marley twists. However, they are usually smaller and use Kanekalon hair. This hair gives the twists a more shiny and smooth look. Of course, you can use whatever hair you would like, this is just the main difference. You can also use the similar technique (invisible root method”> to install the Havana and Marley twists. Senegalese twists are a good option if you want a smooth look and prefer not to have as much texture. If you also prefer to have smaller twists, this is also a good option for you. My Natural Sistas share a tutorial on installing Senegalese twists where the hair is braided at the root.

Jumbo Twists

Jumbo twists are larger versions of Havana and Marley twists. Havana or Marley hair would probably be the best hair to use. However, you may need 4-6 pieces of hair for the twist, depending on how big you want them. This can be a bit more expensive since you are using more hair. It also may not last as long (usually these styles can last 4-8 weeks depending on how you maintain it”> since the twists are bigger. Ambrosia Malbrough shares how she installs her jumbo Havana twists.

Flat Twists

Guess what? Your favorite flat twists can also be considered a protective style with extensions. Simply add your preferred hair using the invisible root method. This gives you an option to style your hair exactly the way you want. If you do not want to have your hair out, try doing a flat twist updo style. If you need to style your hair with something simple, easy, and stylish, Juicesandberries shares how to achieve a flat twist crown style with Marley hair. 

Crochet Twists

Crochet braids have been super trendy and are a great protective style for your hair. You can also install crochet twists. This is a great option for those who enjoy crochet braids and do not want to actually twist the hair. You have to purchase hair that is already twisted. This can possibly save a few hours of installation compared to the traditional installment of twists. iMadameJay shares her tutorial on how to install Crochet Havana Mambo Twists.

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What is your favorite protective twist style? Are protective styles an essential to your regimen? Please share with the curly community.

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