As someone who has experienced hair loss, I know the frustration and confusion that comes with it. Trying to manage your hair without causing further damage can be hard, but thankfully, protective hairstyles can help! Protective hairstyles are an excellent way to protect your hair from the elements while still looking good. In this article, I’ll share seven protective hairstyles – box braids, twists, faux locs, cornrows, Bantu knots, halo braids, and French braids – so you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful.
Taking care of your hair correctly can prevent more damage and promote healthy growth. The point is to find a perfect style that works for you – one that’s easy to maintain and complements your look. With these seven styles at your fingertips, you can find something that suits you best. So let’s get started!
Box Braids
If you’re seeking a stylish way to keep your locks safe and secure, box braids are the answer! Box braiding is protective and versatile – there’s a range of patterns and styles to choose from. Braiding time can take up to several hours, depending on your hair’s length, thickness, and complexity. But once they’re done, you’ll have beautiful braided hair lasting between 2-6 weeks with proper care.
Box braids are made by dividing the sectioned-off parts into three or more strands which are then plaited together. Various intricate braiding patterns, including double-strand twists, fishtails, and cornrows, can be used for different looks. You can even add color to your box braids for extra style points! It’s also important to ensure you use a good quality stylings product like wax or gel when creating box braids, as this will help keep them in place for longer.
Doesn’t matter what kind of look you’re going for; box-braid hairstyles are a great way to protect your hair from damage while still looking fashionable. Whether it’s an everyday style or something special for a night out on the town, these gorgeous, protective hairstyles will always have you feeling confident and ready to rock whatever look you choose!
Twists
You’ll be surprised at the results when you twist your hair–research shows it can reduce breakage by up to 75%! Twists are a great protective style that keeps your hair safe from breakage and looks stylish and modern. Many people with textured or curly hair find twists particularly helpful for managing their hair and keeping it healthy, as they don’t require much styling and create minimal tension on the scalp.
You will need products like a leave-in conditioner, curling cream, and edge control gel to create twists. Start by creating a few sections of your hair that are easy to manage. Once each section is divided, take two strands of hair in one hand and twist them together until the ends overlap. Make sure to use light tension so you don’t damage your natural locks in the process! Afterward, use an edge control product along the edges of your twists to keep them neat and tidy.
Twists are a fantastic protective style because they allow you to protect your delicate strands while expressing yourself through different colors or styles. You can customize them however you want—from colorful accent pieces to long braids—it’s up to you! With proper care and maintenance, these twists can last between two weeks and four months without needing any touch-ups if moisturized regularly.
Faux Locs
Faux locs are an awesome way to express yourself and rock a unique look! This protective styling option is created by braiding the natural hair, then wrapping synthetic extensions around each braid. Faux locs can range from subtle and wispy to full and dramatic — it’s up to your preference. A celebrity stylist can help you find the perfect faux locs style that complements your features and personality. For those who don’t want long locks, faux ponytails offer a great alternative. These protectively styled extensions can be tied up in a bun or ponytail, making them the perfect choice for busy women on the go!
No matter which style you choose, faux locs are an excellent option for anyone looking to switch up their hairstyle without damaging their natural hair. Unlike traditional dreadlocks, this protective hairstyle doesn’t require regular maintenance like re-twisting or waxing to keep its shape. If you follow proper care instructions for washing and conditioning, your lovely faux should stay vibrant for months! Plus, with so many different styles available today — from goddess braids to colorful twists — there’s something out there for everyone.
So why wait? Take the plunge with faux locs and confidently show off your new look! There’s never a limit to what you can create regarding these fabulous protective styles — whether you embrace a classic look or go bold with something new. So go ahead; try something daring today!
Cornrows
Cornrows are a great way to express yourself and give your look an edge– just ask the likes of Beyonce, who rocked them for her iconic ‘Lemonade’ video. This versatile style is created by tightly braiding the natural hair close to the scalp in rows and can last for weeks. With cornrows, you’ll be sure to turn heads wherever you go!
If you’re looking for more protective hairstyles, plenty of options exist. Try knotless braids that keep your hair away from your face without pulling too tight on your scalp, or try a two-strand twist which is perfect for those with shoulder-length hair or shorter. For something fun and flirty, opt for a pigtail braid or even a braided ponytail – all of which will help protect your hair while giving it some extra flair!
No matter what hairstyle you choose, take care of it properly to ensure lasting results. Use moisturizing products like leave-in conditioners or oils to keep your strands healthy and hydrated. If done right, cornrows and other protective styles can help reduce breakage and promote growth while keeping you looking fashionable all season long!
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a great way to show off your unique style and make a bold statement – plus, they’re super easy to do! A Bantu knot is created by twisting sections of hair around itself until it forms a tight coil. This hairstyle can be further accentuated with hair extensions or leave-in conditioners.
It’s also an excellent protective style for those with thinning hair and looking for ways to reduce breakage during daily styling. Regular deep conditioning is essential to maintain your Bantu knots, as this helps keep the strands strong and healthy while preventing further breakage.
When creating Bantu knots, you should start with freshly washed and conditioned hair that has been towel dried but is still slightly damp. Separate your strands into small sections before twisting each into the knot shape. As you create each knot, secure it tightly so it remains in place throughout the day. If you want extra definition, apply oil or pomade onto each section before starting the knotting process.
The best part about having Bantu knots is that there are many creative ways to rock this look – from high buns to half-up/half-down styles! So whether you’re seeking something edgy or classic, this hairstyle will turn heads wherever you go! With proper care and maintenance, these tight hairstyles can last up to several weeks without needing any touch-ups.
Halo Braid
The next protective hairstyle to explore is the Halo Braid. This style requires little maintenance and is perfect for those looking for a chic, low-maintenance look. Unlike traditional bantu knots, which require some skill, the halo braid can be created with just a few hair accessories like bands and pins. It’s an easy way to add volume and texture to any hairstyle.
To create a halo braid, you will need basic supplies such as a comb, elastic bands, clips, and optional hair extensions or wigs if desired. Start by gathering your hair into two sections at the nape of your neck and creating two French braids on either side of your head that meet in the middle at the top of your crown. Secure each braid with small elastics before pinning them together in an X shape at the back of your head. You may also want to secure small accessories, such as baby hairs or beads, for extra flair!
Finally, finish off the look by using pins or clips to tuck away any loose strands around your face and neck area – this will help keep all your lovely locks in place while still letting you show off your beautiful protective style!
French Braids
French braids are like two intertwined rivers, easily weaving together to create a stunning hairstyle. French braid style can be used for various looks, from classic plaits to intricate updos. It’s one of the most popular protective hairstyles, as it keeps your hair secure and free from damage. When creating a French braid, it is important to not pull too tightly on the strands so your scalp isn’t strained or irritated.
To ensure your hair stays healthy while in a tight style, use a water-based leave-in conditioner before styling and after you take down the French braid. This will help keep moisture locked in and protect against hair loss caused by dryness and breakage. Proper care and maintenance make you enjoy rocking this look without worrying about potential hair damage!
Conclusion
I’m sure you know the tremendous impact hair loss can have on your self-confidence. But don’t worry; plenty of protective hairstyles can be just as stylish yet help minimize further damage and breakage. Many of these styles provide so much versatility in color, texture, and length! Plus, with an estimated 40% of all women suffering from hair loss or thinning at some point in their lives, you’re not alone in this battle. So why not give one of these protective hairstyles a try? You’ll be glad you did!