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What You Need for Marley Twists

Marley twists use marley hair, a matte, coarse-textured fiber made to imitate natural afro hair rather than to shine. The result is chunkier and more natural-looking than Senegalese twists, and it blends with unstretched natural hair better than any other twist option.

Why marley hair is different

It's textured, matte and grippy where kanekalon is smooth and glossy. That grip is an advantage at the root, since the twist holds without much effort, and it's why marley hair is also the standard for faux loc wrapping. It does not have the sheen that makes some styles look obviously synthetic in daylight.

How much

Marley hair is sold in packs by weight rather than by length in the way kanekalon often is, and a full head of medium twists takes several. Chunkier twists take fewer. Because the hair is dense, the finished style feels heavier than a Senegalese twist of the same size, which is worth factoring into length.

Technique

Two-strand twisting, and the grip of the hair means it holds without the tight counter-twist that smooth kanekalon needs. Some people add a light gel or butter at the root for a cleaner start. Ends can be sealed in hot water, though marley hair holds its own end better than smooth fiber does.

Care

Marley twists frizz over time and it reads as natural rather than untidy, which is part of the appeal. Satin at night still helps. Light oil on the scalp through the parts, and avoid heavy product on the twists themselves, which mats the texture rather than smoothing it.

Take-down

Marley hair tangles more than smooth kanekalon during take-down because of that same grip. Work slowly, cut well clear of your own hair, and use plenty of conditioner or detangler as you unravel. Rushing this is where people lose length.