The Best Protective Hairstyles For Natural Hair
Written By: Je’Ana C.
Do you want to prevent hair damage or grow your hair out?
Protective styles can help with both or either of these goals! These styles can make a significant difference in your hair’s overall health. What is a protective hairstyle? A protective hairstyle involves wearing a hairdo that protects your tresses from harmful environmental elements, heat damage, and breakage. Natural hair twists are one of the best protective hairstyles and braids.
Do you want to learn about protective hairstyles to try? Keep reading!
Related: The 3 Best Affordable Shampoos For Natural Hair
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SHOP OUR NATURAL HAIR FAVORITES:
Credit: Picture by @Joyjah
1) Braids
Braids are a classic protective style that has been around for centuries. When I began my Natural Hair Journey, I wasn’t aware that braids could protect your hair.
Cornrows are a popular braid hairstyle. It is often worn under hair units and weaves, but it also can be styled using just your natural mane. Also, they make a stunning statement if they are done correctly. You can easily keep them consistently fresh with a satin scarf at night. Make sure you use a moisturizing conditioner before you braid your hair. You want your hair to be in the best possible condition before you install your braids because it will help keep your hair healthy in this style.
More Braided Hairstyles
> Box Braids
> Jumbo Knotless Braids
> Halo Braid
2) Slick Bun
Slick buns are one of my favorites as a simple naturalista that doesn’t like much fuss. The versatility of this style is infinite and can be worn as a low bun OR high bun. If you want simplicity, clean with a hint of sophistication, then this is the style for you! The slick bun is a protective style that can be utilized for every season. Plus, it can perfectly combine with most of the outfits in your wardrobe.
=> Credit: Photo By @curlbellaa
Credit: Picture by @istina.manners
3) Twists
Twists are a relatively quick and easy way to style your natural hair. First, you take a section of hair from your root. Then, divide that section into two and twist the area down to your ends. Sounds simple, right?
If you want juicy twists that can easily lock in moisture, then this style is for you!
Tip: Use a smaller section for a smaller twist or a larger section for a chunkier twist.
Our Favorite Twists Styles
> Jumbo Twists
> Kinky Twists
> Senegalese Twists
4) Faux Locs
This protective style truly protects your tresses! Faux locs are rising to popularity in the natural hair community and ultimately create the illusion of real locs by winding extensions around the sections of your hair. The best part is that when they are installed, your natural hair is protected against; environmental damage, breakage, and heat. Sounds good to me!
Credit: Picture by @jassl
5) High Puffs
High puffs are one of my favorite styles! They are part of my hair routine all year round. How about you? It’s a quick style that can be done in under 5-10 minutes.
Also, high puffs are conveniently up high to protect your fragile ends from brushing against your clothes or other surfaces throughout the day. Plus, you can easily braid the loose hair to create a high braided bun. This method will give your hair even more protection during those colder seasons.
6) Headwrap
Is wrapping your hair a protective style? Yes, it is!
Headwrap styles are not recognized enough. They are an efficient and affordable protective style. Headwraps shield your natural tresses from any damage and will assist in keeping your hair soft and hydrated. Plus, they can be used as a bold statement piece and can be paired with most outfits—honestly, the number of headwrap styles and patterns are quite endless.
Here are my favorite headwraps!
Credit: Picture by @ebonybomani
7) Bantu Knots
Did you know that Bantu knots are a 90’s style?
This super stylish protective hairstyle keeps the ends of your hair safely tucked away.
You can have Bantu knots whether you have short or long hair. There are several methods and looks with Bantu knots. For instance, you can opt for these stylish cornrows with Bantu Knots look @ebonybomani
Tip: Make sure your hair is not wet before unraveling your knots because they will not come out correctly.
I hope you ladies enjoyed these super cute but protective hairstyles! It’s good to change up your look or style once in a while and these definitely give you the ability to do that. What is one of your favorite protective hairstyles? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below!
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FOUNDER & EDITOR
Je’Ana C. has been writing diverse content for clients and her own website for four years. She provides photography, ghostwriting, coaching, and content creation. Her educational background in the English Language & Humanities has given her a broad base from which to approach many topics. Her writing skills may be confirmed independently on shadesoftatiana.com.
