Top 10 Protective Styles for Natural Hair

Top 10 Protective Styles for Natural Hair

Giving your hair a break from brushing, combing, and constant manipulation is the fast-track way to achieving strong, healthy curls. With protective hairstyles offering a range of benefits for natural hair, they’re a firm favorite for maintaining healthy strands. These complementary styles help shield the hair from environmental damage and minimize breakage, while reducing the usage of products, heat, and harsh chemicals. By tucking away the ends, which are the most fragile parts of the hair, protective styles promote length retention and moisture preservation. And not only do protective styles keep your natural hair in tip-top condition, but they’re also versatile and stylish, allowing you to express your personality while supporting hair growth. Whether you're transitioning, growing your hair out, or just need a low-maintenance option, protective hairstyles are a smart, stylish solution, essential for maintaining the health and strength of your natural hair, and here are our top 10:

  1. Box Braids
    This classic style is a favorite amongst us all. From young to old, girl next door to A-list celeb, the box braid has framed the face of many. Sections of hair are braided down the length with or without added extensions. They’re versatile, long-lasting, and great for keeping hair detangled and safe from damage.
  2. Twists (Two-Strand or Flat)
    Twists are gentle on the scalp and easy to do. Like the box braid, these twists (two-strand or flat) keep the hair stretched, reducing tangles, and can be styled in numerous ways.
  3. Cornrows
    Cornrows are the perfect go-to if you want your hair braided but are pushed for time. With your hair braided close to the scalp, this style is ideal as a low-maintenance, long-lasting style. They can be worn straight back, spiced up with intricate designs, or as a base for other styles like wigs or crochet braids.
  4. Bantu Knots
    Bantu knots are small, coiled buns that protect the hair while creating a defined curl pattern when taken down. They’re stylish on their own and promote growth by limiting manipulation.
  5. Wigs
    This popular option offers maximum styling freedom while completely protecting natural hair underneath. Wigs can be removed at any time, allowing the scalp to breathe and giving your hair a break.
  6. Crochet Braids
    Crochet is a time-saving alternative to sew-ins with extensions woven into your cornrowed hair with a crochet needle. It offers a wide range of styles from twists, braids, faux locs, and much more.
  7. Halo or Crown Braid
    The halo braid wraps around the head like a crown, protecting the ends and giving a regal, elegant appearance. It’s perfect for special occasions or everyday wear.
  8. Faux Locs
    If you’ve always been intrigued by locs, but too scared to take the leap, then faux locs are the answer. There’s no commitment, and they protect your hair from moisture loss and breakage.
  9. Low Manipulation Bun
    A low, sleek bun keeps ends tucked away and reduces tension on the scalp. It’s quick, stylish, and perfect for professional or casual settings.
  10. Pineapple Updo
    This updo has your curls gathered at the crown of your head and secured with a hair tie. Your strands are protected while giving a fun and effortless look.

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