The change of weather, the rain, the wind, and the drop in temperatures can take its toll on your natural hair. It’s crucial to adapt your haircare routine and choose winter protective hairstyles for the change of season.
Does natural hair really break more in winter?
Winter is here, it’s crucial to adapt your routine to protect your natural hair from the harsh elements. Protective hairstyles are a fabulous way to lock your hair from the cold, dry air, while also promoting hair growth and retention. Without proper care in winter, your hair is at risk of becoming more fragile and leading to breakage. The ends of your hair is what is most at risk as they represent the oldest hair strands. There are a variety of winter protective hairstyles for your crown to thrive in this cold season. Before choosing your next protective hairstyle, it’s important to pick what fits your hair’s needs. Ask yourself these questions before booking your next appointment:
How is the state of my hair?
Protective hairstyles are always a good idea. However, it’s important to install the hairstyle that is best for your hair to prevent further damage. If you are experiencing issues with your hairline, then avoid box braids and hairstyles with extensions that will add weight and further pull your hairline. If you have been experiencing dryness and breakage, it might be best to privilege a hairstyle such as mini twists or braids where you can maintain your haircare routine.
How long do I want to keep the hairstyle in?
Protective hairstyles are best to keep around 6 to 8 weeks or slightly longer when it comes to braids with extensions. If you are looking to save time and need a break from your haircare routine, some hairstyles will only last for a couple weeks. E.g, cornrows and flat twists worn on their own without extensions. For longer wear, crochet and box braids can be a great option.
What are the best winter protective hairstyles?
Here are the best winter protective hairstyles that you should try. There are so many beautiful hairstyles that can suit your preference for a protective style during winter, these examples can be a good start to give you inspiration and find more options. You will find a protective hairstyle to try whether your hair is in the TWA stage or you reached mid-back length.
1. Twisted Crown
The twisted crown is such an elegant hairstyle that is not talked about enough! It is very quick to install and absolutely perfect for both casual and formal occasions. By twisting and pinning sections of your hair around your head, you create a protective style that keeps the ends of your hair tucked away, minimizing the exposure of your hair to the elements. You will need to have a length of hair long enough to be able to braid.
2. Box Braids
Box braids is the main character, the focus and center of protective hairstyles. When you think of protective hairstyles, you think of box braids. They offer a low-maintenance option that can last for months for those who do not like to switch up their hairstyle often. There are also countless versions of box braids with options to experiment with different sizes, lengths, and colors.
3. Flat Twists
Flat twists are a protective style that’s easy to install and maintain. Similar to cornrows, they can provide a sleek and polished look if you do not fail to protect your hair at night to avoid frizz. Flat twists can also be used to wear your wigs once you are done wearing them.
4. Faux Locs
Faux locs have gained incredible popularity these past years. It seems everyone is loving the stunning appearance of dreadlocks without long-term commitment. You have the option to try them in crochets braids, regularset of braids and also in many different hairstyles.
5. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a such a stylish hairstyle that works well for everyone willing to try. Bantu knots provide a fun and playful look while keeping your hair safe by being wrapped in little buns. Additionally, when taken down, Bantu knots create beautiful, defined curls, giving you a two-in-one styling option.
6. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids is one of the easiest hairstyles to install and take down. The versatility of this style is also unmatched. Crochet braids can come in the form of natural hair, braids, locs or straight hair. Everything is possible with crochet braids. This hairstyle also offers minimal tension on your scalp despite using extensions because of the install method that relies on cornrows.
7. Cornrows
Cornrows are the life saver of natural hair. They are versatile, long lasting and the most protective to natural hair when installed correctly. With or without extensions, cornrows are always a no brainer for protecting natural hair.
8. Wigs
A wig is always an easy option for a winter protective hairstyle, especially if you want to keep the look of your natural hair. Lace wigs, u-part, headband wigs, there are a lot of options when it comes to natural hair wigs. We have an article on the best kinky curly wigs here.
9. Sew-In Weave
Sew in weaves can be a good option if you’re not comfortable with wigs. However, this hairstyle can have a bad reputation for being hair damaging. To protect your hair, avoid keeping this hairstyle for more than 4 weeks and beware of the tightness of the install.
10. Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists are a great option for braids with extensions for the ones who love the look of two strand twists. Senegalese twists are lightweight and can be installed in a short time.
Which protective hairstyle is best for growth?
The protective hairstyles that are the best for growth are the ones where you will be able to still take care of your natural hair. Easy access to your scalp for cleansing and regular moisture is what will guarantee your hair to thrive. Hairstyles that require little manipulation on your hair, protect your edges and your ends are the best for growth.
What protective style is least damaging?
Any hairstyle causing too much damage on your hairline and your scalp will be damaging to your natural hair. The least damaging protective hairstyle will avoid putting tension on your hair. Hairstyles that are too heavy will create tension on your hairline as well as on your scalp and can result in traction alopecia. Some damage created by these hairstyles can be irreversible. Always leave your edges out of the hairstyle of your choice and make sure that it’s not too heavy on your roots.
Be careful with hairstyles such as butterfly locs or goddess locs, where the hair extention is twisted around your natural hair. This can result in tangles and cause breakage.
Protective hairstyles are a winter essential, helping to protect your hair from the cold while promoting growth and retention. Whether you prefer a twisted crown, bantu knots, or the versatility of box braids, there is a protective hairstyle to suit your preference. Remember, to achieve hair growth with a winter protective hairstyle, you need to maintain a regular hair care routine, that includes cleansing and moisturizing.
