Are you looking for protective styles this winter? Then keep on reading for a list of protective hairstyles without extensions. Protecting your hair in winter is key to maintain your hair length and to effectively grow your hair. All your hair need is to be protected from external damage and keep the moisture locked in.
1. Mini Twists
This great protective style is one of the easiest to achieve and can be kept for a very long time (even during wash days). It’s versatile, can be styled in a bun, a high pony, two puffs or just down! It’s a 2-in-1 style that can become a gorgeous twist-out.
2. Goddess Braids
The popular braiding style can also be achieved without adding hair! The same technique is applied to your own hair, this is a great option if you’re looking to change from regular braids.
3. Flat Twists
Flat twists are perfect if you’re looking to immediately wear your hair out once you take it down. It will give your hair a nice stretch with a beautiful definition. Accessories can also be added which really takes it to the next level.
4. Bun
The simplest option to style your hair and yes this can also be an option to keep for a week or two. To make it more special, flat twist or cornrow half of your hair and lay the rest of your hair in a bun.
5. Crown Braid
Crown braid or also known as halo braid will make you feel so elegant. This hairstyle is one braid wrapped around you head. This can also be achieved with a twist instead of a braid if you desire less tension.
Do protective styles make hair grow?
In short, the answer is no. Wearing your hair in a protective style will not make your hair grow faster than if you would wear your hair in twist outs. Protective styling protects your hair from breakage which leads to length retention. No breakage = longer hair!
Benefits from protective styles
- Less breakage due to daily styling such as heat, pulling and tugging.
- It maintains moisture as it’s locked in your hair and not able to evaporate as fast.
- Protects your ends from the extreme temperatures in winter avoiding them to split.
- Saves you a lot of time! No need to style your hair every morning.
What to do before your protective style
Before installing your protective style of choice, you must make sure that your hair is clean and moisturized. Protective styles without weave can last about 2 to 3 weeks so you will need to prepare your hair before styling.
Wash: To grow your hair in a protective style, your hair must be thoroughly cleansed before the style is installed. Prioritize deep cleansing shampoos (instead of moisturizing) as you want to make sure that there is no build up or residue left in your hair strands.
Deep Condition: This step is not mandatory every wash day but is preferred before a protective hairstyle. The deep condition will strengthen your hair and provide the deep moisture your hair needs while it will be tucked in for a few weeks.
Moisturize: As part of your wash day steps (you can review the needed steps on our guide here), make sure to apply a leave in conditioner and a cream to moisturize your hair. Dry hair in a protective style could lead to breakage and tangled hair.
How to maintain a protective style?
If you want to get the best out of your protective style and have your hair look as good as the day of the install, there are some steps you need to follow. These will extend the life of your hairstyle and make you a lot happier in the process!
At Night: Always sleep with your hair protected, I recommend to tie a silk scarf around your head as it will keep the style “tight” and prevent frizz.
In the Morning: You will need to apply a hair mousse on your hairstyle and a styling gel for your edges if you wish to add to your styling. The hair mousse will help to lay your hair down and remove the frizz that might have happened in your sleep. The final step is to wrap your hair in a silk scarf while you finish to get ready. Your hairstyle will look flawless for the rest of the day!
What protective style is best for natural hair?
The best protective style for natural hair depends on your hair’s texture and overall condition. The most fragile hair will benefit from very low maintenance and tension styles such as twists or flat twists. In general, the safest options for protective styles are styles without extensions. These styles are easier to maintain your natural hair regimen and care for your scalp.
