When you choose protective hairstyles, you help keep your hair safe. These styles are great for any season, making your natural locks look beautiful while staying healthy. Hairstyles like braids are fun and let you play with different lengths, colors, and textures without harming your hair.
Always remember, trying new styles is about experimentation. But, if you like something a lot, sticking to tried-and-true methods is also good. This commitment helps in preserving the health of your hair. Sometimes, it’s nice to change, or switch, things up a bit!
40 Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair
When you want to style hair in a way that keeps it safe, try a protective hairstyle. Flat twists or a pineapple hairstyle are great choices. They keep your hair away from harm and look really cool. Another fun option is the side part updo. It gives an iconic look that you can wear to school or a party. Let’s discuss the 40 trending protective hairstyles
1. Box Braids
Box braids are a classic braided style that uses square parting to form uniformly shaped braids. The process of braiding involves taking sections of your hair, creating strands, and then wrapped around a knot. To achieve the look, many use synthetic braiding hair like Kanekalon or plant-based hair options such as Rebundle. These materials help keep the braids neat and durable.
2. Knotless Braids
Knotless braids are a special way to style hair. They start with your own hair and slowly, extension pieces are fed into the braid. This creates a smooth look because there’s no knot at the scalp. These braids are gentle and cause less tension on your head, making them comfortable and giving them a seamless appearance.
3. Fulani Braids With Beads
Fulani braids with beads are a cool way to dress up your hair. This style cue comes from Solange, a true icon in fashion. She takes braids to the next level by adding beads along the entire length. The look is bold and futuristic, making it a favorite for anyone wanting to stand out. Try adding some colorful accessories to make your braids even more special.
4. Ribbon-Laced Braid
The Ribbon-Laced Braid adds beauty to your hair. Adding materials like beads, fabric, and jewelry makes the braids look fancy. You can use these decorations on faux locs too. A famous stylist, Araxi Lindsey, who styles for the show Black-ish, loves using these ideas. Her favorite is the three-strand braid because it looks stunning and works well with natural hair.
5. Plaited Updo
A plaited updo is a style of braids that sits high like a crown. It reminds us of Yoruba royalty, who wore their hair in regal heights to show honor. This updo is made of intricate patterns that will make everyone look in awe. It’s not just a style; it’s a way of saying thank you to our ancestors for their innovative ways to keep natural locks beautiful.
6. Faux Fishtail Braid
To create a faux fishtail braid that looks extra sleek and shiny, start by using hair pomade. A great choice is Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey. It helps to slick back any flyaways and makes your hair look radiant. Add faux ponytails to increase the length and texture for a fuller look. This style is loved by celebrities like Tracee Ellis Ross because it’s both beautiful and leveled up.
7. Cornrows With a Faux Pony
Cornrows are a great braiding style that give you the best of both worlds. They’re tight and intricate, but you can add a faux pony for maximum volume. Try to experiment with color by adding a weave. A bright pony with a color-block effect looks super cute and fun!
8. Faux Locs
Faux locs are a classic protective style that can really update your look. You can mix different colors and combining textures to add fun contrast. Using extension hair, faux locs can mimic various curl patterns. This style up the ante on beauty, keeping your natural box braids safe and sound.
9. Wavy Bantu Knots
Wavy Bantu Knots are a tried-and-true classic. These chunky, braided knots look playful and chic. They feature curved parts that make each knot stand out. This style is a prime example of how switching your parting can refresh your look.
10. Two-Strand Twists
Two-Strand Twists work well for natural hair. First, divide your hair into sections depending on the thickness you want. Twist each section from root to ends. If you need more volume or length, add extensions. To keep the twists from getting dry, spritz them with water and apply a light hair product to reawaken their look.
11. Faux Three-Strand Braid
The three-strand braids can be simple or stunning. Yara Shahidi loves this style because it’s so versatile. You can make it delicate with a gold accessory. Try a high bun for a fun look. It’s perfect for any mood and looks different every time. This modified, avant-garde braid is always cool!
12. Goddess Locs
Goddess locs are a beautiful type of faux locs. They are a version of regular locs but with a twist. Curly extensions are weaved into your hair to make them look wavy and full. Many people use pre-made Kanekalon or Marley hair to create these locs. You can also add curly pieces of human hair for a natural look that closely resembles real hair.
13. Finger-Wave Cornrows
Finger-wave cornrows are inspired by Beyoncé’s red-carpet look in The Lion King. These sharp braids start with finger waves at the nape and include added extensions for extra length. The braids can drape over your shoulder, wrap around into a low pony, or be styled into a bun. This versatility makes it perfect for any event, showcasing the Koudou style’s elegance.
14. Senegalese Twist
Senegalese twists are a popular two-strand style that look like rope. To create them, you twist braiding hair tightly. They are also known as rope twists. People often add extensions to make them longer and smooth. Ashley Sims, a famous stylist, loves this style because it protects your hair while looking great.
15. Locs With Highlights
Cristiana Cassell teamed up with hairstylist Chloe Bailey to create perfect faux locs. They added color and sparkle for a fresh look. The highlighted locs in warm and neutral tones are great for fall and winter months. Try box braids for a fun style!
16. Updo with Flat Twists
If you want a nice look for your hair that keeps it safe, try twists! Twists are a great type of protective hairstyles. They don’t pull on your edges or weigh down your strands. This style uses box braids and jumbo cornrows, but it feels lighter and is easier to wear. When you opt for this updo, it helps combat damage. It’s good for your hair to face the opposite way sometimes, and this style does just that!
17. Neon Box Braids
Neon Box Braids give you a fresh look with a splash of color. These braids can be styled into ponytails or have pieces left out at the front for an extra edge. They are as fun as faux locs and as bold as Amandla Stenberg’s styles at Cassell’s latest show.
18. Long Pony
The long pony is a fun protective style. It’s like a regular ponytail but cooler because it has more volume. To get this go-to look, start by making braids at the base of your hair. Then, pull it up high to raise the bar in style! It’s fancier than a low bun and was even worn by Elaine Welteroth.
19. Marley Twists
Marley twists are a type of two-strand twists that look very textured and coarse, just like Marley hair. Sims explains that they are similar to Havana twists but thinner in size. These twists are affordable and soft, making them a recommended style for a textured appearance. They typically have a blown-out finish and are compared to other styles but stand out due to their unique nature.
20. High Pony
A high pony is a fun way to wear your hair up. It can make your hair look longer by pulling your sleek strands up high on your head. This style is great for showing off soft waves that add dimension. It’s a favorite of many, including the famous Issa Rae. This look can help protect your hair and keep it tidy.
21. Box Braid Bun
For a stylish look, box braids can be swept-back into a honey brown bun. This style lets braids be pulled back neatly, helping to minimize scalp tension. It’s good to be mindful about not tying them too tight or keeping them up for too long. Alternate between wearing your braids up and letting them down to give your scalp a well-deserved break. The merrier your scalp feels, the healthier your hair will be!
22. Wrapped Box Braids
Box braids are a classic look that never goes out of style, but you can revamp them to create a new style! By combining textures like faux locs or using colorful thread, your braids get extra dimension. To add color, mix in some Brown strands or other fun shades. This will break up the uniformity and give your braids a fresh twist.
23. Cuffed Halo Braid
For a cute and sleek style, try a Cuffed Halo Braid. Add some shiny hair cuffs and jewelry to make it sparkle. Use Kanekalon bundles for a silky look. Doubling up the braids creates an illusion of straighter hair and a sleeker finish. It’s a fun decision to mix accessories into your braiding.
24. Halo Braid
The Halo Braid is a beautiful hairstyle that looks like a faux crown braid. It can be dressed up for special, socially distanced occasions or worn casually. Add blond extensions to warm up the look and feel like a winner! Pair it with thin hoops to be ready to serve style.
25. Butterfly Locs
Butterfly Locs are a fun way to keep your hair safe. Before you start, prep your hair with Schwarzkopf Fibre Clinix Hydrate Shampoo and Fibre Clinix Hydrate Conditioner. This will make sure your hair is moisturized. Ashley loves these faux locs because they look slightly distressed and imperfect, which is really cool. When installing them, be mindful of the tension to avoid stress on your scalp.
26. Star-Stitch Braids
Star-Stitch Braids are a fun design of protective hairstyles that are popular in the summer. They style your hair with a star pattern on the side of your head. This look is perfect for the season because it prevents damage and you won’t have to redo it after you swim.
27. Pineapple Updo
Pineapple updo is a fun way to keep your hair safe while you sleep. Just pile your curls on top of your head. This style stops them from crushing under you at night. It looks like a twist-out in the front!
28. Twisted Protective Style
Women with short natural hair often deal with shrinkage after washing. A great way to add flair and texture without much hassle is to try twisted protective styles. These updos use individual twists and braids that make your hair appear longer than it really is, perfect for those who want to switch things up!
29. Criss Crossed Cornrows
Cornrows are a perfect hairstyle for summer because they keep your hair neat and off your neck. This fresh take on braids uses flat twists and crosses them in a fun pattern. It’s like the MVP of hairstyle versatility! The cornrow hairstyle can even go down to your lower back length braids. They are gentle on your edges and easy to keep up with a beachy, laid back look. The installation is simple and cool for hot days.
30. Chic Natural Mohawk Updo
The Chic Natural Mohawk Updo is a popular protective hairstyle for black women. It helps protect natural curls by piling them into buns on the head. This simple yet classy look works great for shorter hair and can be worn to work or out with friends!
31. Medium Layered Twists
Medium Layered Twists are a quick and easy way to protect your hair while it’s growing out. This style involves creating twists that cascade down to your shoulders or upper back. The twists can be styled in any desired direction, making them perfect for shorter length hair.
32. Twists and Cornrows Updo
Twists and Cornrows Updo is a modern and attractive way to style short hair. Braided curvy cornrows and loose twists go up to the top, adding extra height. This protective style keeps natural hair safe. The ends of the twists fall to one side, giving a feminine touch with playful bangs.
33. Short Natural Twist Updo
Short Natural Twist Updo offers many options for those with short hair. You can try bigger twists in a textured updo, or pull them into a ponytail or bun. Adding ombre or surface highlights gives visual interest and dimension. This style is ideal for thick natural hair, making it look cropped and neat.
34. Side Swept Flat Twisted Bun
The Side Swept Flat Twisted Bun is a hairstyle that’s Suitable for any occasion, whether you’re staying home or heading on vacation. This style keeps your hair protected by flat twists leading into a classic bun at the neck or back. It’s perfect for keeping cool during hot summer months.
35. Side Twist Protective Style
Side Twist Protective Style is a natural way to keep your hair looking great. You can start with wet hair and make a two-strand twist. Then, take the twist and roll it like a Dutch braid. This style doesn’t take much time and keeps your hair from getting crunched.
36. Sleek Natural Hair Braid Style
Sleek Natural Hair Braid Style is a great protective hairstyle for your natural hair. Start by parting your hair into angled hair parts close to the scalp. Then, braid the sections together, adding each new piece to create a fusion of components. Finally, gather the braids into a bun for a neat final result.
37. Thin Black Fulani Braids
Thin Black Fulani Braids protect your natural hair while giving you a look that feels like a celebrity style. These Alicia Keys-inspired Fulani braids are jet black with a center part. A single braid down the middle keeps it simple, straightforward, and elegant.
38. Side-Parted Twisted Bob
Side-Parted Twisted Bob is a classic and timeless protective style that features a deep side part with twists directed behind the ear. This chin-length bob has layered twists that add depth and a playful peek-a-boo bang for eye-intrigue. Sections of the hair are styled in an asymmetrical touch, making it a unique protective hairdo.
39. Jumbo Twists
Jumbo Twists are big and chunkier two-strand twists that use extensions to add fullness. These twists can make any hair length look fuller and longer. To keep them nice and smooth, use Thermal Setting Mousse that hydrates and holds without leaving your hair crunchy or with white residue.
40. Double Puffs
Double Puffs are super cute and chic, and they’re equally good as protective styles for your natural hair. Using extensions can take a toll on your scalp, but you can alternate between braids and twists with this style to give your hair a break from wearing the same look.
Some Common Questions About The Protective hair style
How long do protective braids last?
Box braids and faux locs are a great protective style that can last from six to 12 weeks. These braids help keep your hair safe and tangle-free. Extensions or sew-ins might need a touch-up every three to seven days to keep them neat. This style keeps your strands healthy as they grow.
What is the most protective braid style?
What is the most protective braid style? Knotless braids are very kind to your hair. They do not start with a knot at the root like traditional box braids. This technique lowers tension on your scalp. It helps minimize the risk of hair breakage, especially with thin or fine hair.
Do protective styles help hair grow?
Do Protective Styles Help Hair Grow? Yes! Protective styles are great because they protect your roots and reduce breakage. This means fewer split ends and less frizz. Incorporating a protective style into your natural hair routine is a key reason why hair can thrive and start adding length. Plus, these fabulous styles keep you looking good without compromising on style.
Why are braids called protective styles?
Protective styling, like braids, keeps your hair safe. The ends of your hair are tucked away which reduces exposure to the elements. This means less harm from wind, sun, and pollution. Less contact means less dryness, breakage, and tangling.
