When it comes to styling natural hair, the options are endless. But when it comes to protecting your hair from damage, maintaining optimal hydration, and retaining length, it's all about protective styles. “Protective styles can help you give your strands a break from damage incurred by styling, like heat styling or color treatments,” explains celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway. “Your hair is hidden and tucked away, which sometimes prompts growth as well.”
Stanley Nolan, Ogle School’s cosmetologist and Beauty Education Specialist adds that these styles also help to maintain scalp health, lock in moisture, and promote length retention. "Protective styles are like the ultimate getaway for your hair! They let your strands kick back and relax while still looking fabulous," she says. "Whether it’s braids, twists, buns, or wigs, protective styles give your natural hair the breather it needs to grow and thrive."
To help get your hair in the healthiest state possible, make sure you load up on moisture while your hair is in a protective style. If you are wearing braids, Redway recommends using a hydrating product on both the scalp and throughout your the length of your hair. Some of her favorites to get the job done? The Nexxus Curl Define Leave-in Conditioner and the TRESemmé One Step Style Smooth Cream.
Of course, there are old faithfuls like box braids, cornrows, and twisted styles to choose from when deciding on your protective style. But there are also tons of looks that are anything but basic. From low-tension ponytails and flower-embellished box braids to bobs perfect for summer, I've rounded up inspo for every occasion. Read on for everything you want to know about protective styles and 32 of the most stunning options to try right now.
What Defines a Protective Style?
According to Nolan, a protective style reduces overall manipulation of your natural hair pattern, making it a great low-maintenance option. "Not only does it save you time day to day, but it also helps protect your strands from environmental stressors like harsh weather, friction, and heat," she says. "Think of it as a stylish shield for your hair, helping you maintain health, length, and definition with minimal effort."
What Are the Most Popular Options for Protective Styles?
This definitely depends on the creativity of your braider or stylist, but Nolan reiterates that braids are definitely a fan favorite. "There’s a whole world of protective styles to choose from! Think twists, sew-ins, cornrows, faux locs, and even styles like buns or flat twists. Each offers its own look and level of maintenance, so you can switch it up depending on your vibe while still giving your natural hair the protection it needs."
Amandla Stenberg’s Blonde Bob
Obviously the bob is having a major moment this year, and Redway isn't surprised. “I’m really into bob-length hair at the moment—particularly chin-length bobs and in all textures,” Redway says. “The weather is warming up, so it’s nice to see hair moving away from the neck and shoulders as we begin to wear less.”
Brandy's Multi-Colored Marley Twists
Experiment with color without a permanent commitment by opting for fun pastel extensions to incorporate within your protective style. Emulate Brandy's sweet Marley twist with various hues of pink.
Issa Rae's Low Puff
Jazz up your low puff by embellishing with accessories like a rope, like Rae's look created at the hands of Felicia Leatherwood.
Jourdan Dunn's Twisted High Pony
The high ponytail will forever serve as one of the most effective means to easily securing your strands. Dress it up with a statement accessory. Then do as Dunn has here and finish with a bouncy twist for added flair.
Zazie Beetz's Effortless Bantu Knots
Keep your tresses protected while making a statement with this Bantu knot look. Redway created an effortless iteration on actress Zazie Beetz.
Ciara's Two-Toned Faux Locs
It's clear that Ciara can pull off every hairstyle that she debuts, and this two-toned look is no different. Whether you're contemplating a loc journey or seeking to temporarily switch up your look, faux locs are a bold and low maintenance style to try on your natural hair.
Tracee Ellis Ross's Ribbon Braid
Play around with your favorite scarf by adding the accessory into your hair. Here, hairstylist Araxi Lindsey complements Ross's eyeshadow and ear cuffs by intertwining a scarf into her super long braid.
Tessa Thompson's Jumbo Box Braids
Here, Redway played around with proportions by creating jumbo knotless braids on Thompson. The beauty in this look: the install takes half the time of traditional box braids.
Amandla Stenberg's Cornrowed Bun
How stunning is this look? Hairstylist Vernon François worked his magic on Stenberg to create stitched cornrows complete with a chic bun and gorgeous subtle swirls of baby hair.
Lupita Nyong’o’s Contoured Sisterlocks
Francios created a literal work of art here for Lupita. Thanks to a combination of basket weaving, wefting, and loc extensions techniques, he was able to create this insanely intricate updo. If you have a big event coming up, something along these lines is hands-down a way to make a statement.
