I want to start by saying that the term “Marley Hair” is politically incorrect. While almost everyone is familiar with the Marley family and their luscious locs, most people don’t know that the family recently demanded their name and likeness be removed from all packaging of the Marley hair collection. This set the stage for the Afro Twist Braid collections and others like it.
Faux locs and kinky twists are extremely popular right now, but cannot be maintained the same way as traditional braids. Here are a few tips to maintain and retain the most growth in this protective style.
INSTALLATION
Before you begin installing your Marley/Afro Twist braids make sure to coat the hair with a leave-in conditioner. I like to spritz the hair with Taliah Waajid Moisture Clenz and spread it through the the length of each strand. If you’ve ever worked with this type of hair you know how coarse it can be. Trust me, using a deep conditioner will make the hair much easier to work with.
SCALP STIMULATION
Massage, massage, massage that scalp, gyal! Any oil will do. This increases blood flow to the scalp, encourages hair growth, and gives your hair the moisture it needs.
MOISTURE
Part your locs into 4-6 sections and moisturize the entire length of each loc with a leave-in conditioner. Follow up with an oil of your choice. I use lavender Jamaican black castor oil for this step. Not too much though, it can be very heavy. I do this three times a week and my natural hair and Marley braids love it.
When applying product to your faux locs, don’t rub down the strands. Instead blot/squeeze down each braid or twist to avoid creating frizz.
CLEANSING
Washing your hair with twists or braids can cause major frizz, matting, and possible damage. Try scalp cleansers and cleansing sprays like the Moisture Clenz I mentioned earlier. I spritz my scalp once a week to keep this style maintained.
BEDTIME
Using a bandana, pull all the hair to the top of your head. Use a satin scarf to secure the back and cover your edges. Not into scarves? Try a satin pillowcase instead. In the morning simply style as usual.
Follow these tips and maintaining this protective style will be a piece of cake! Let us know how these tips worked for you!
Thank you for your insight on natural curl care!!!