Protective Hairstyles That Will Keep Your Hair Healthy and Stylish

If you’re like most women, you take pride in your hair. So naturally, you want it to be healthy and stylish and go to great lengths to ensure it looks its best. But all that styling can be hard on your hair, damaging and frizzing. Fortunately, protective hairstyles will help keep your hair healthy and looking good. Here are a few of our favorites.

Protective hairstyles for natural hair

There are endless reasons to love protective hairstyles. Not only do they keep your hair healthy and free from damage, but they also allow you to experiment with different looks and styles. So whether you’re looking for a simple updo or something more elaborate, there’s a protective style out there for you.

Not sure where to start? Here are 20 of the best protective hairstyles to try:

1. Box Braids

Box braids are one of the most popular protective styles around, and for a good reason. They’re versatile, easy to style, and can be worn at any length. Plus, they’re perfect for hiding damaged or unhealthy hair. If you’re new to box braids, start with small sections and work your way up to larger ones.

2. Crochet Braids

Crochet braids are another great option for those with damaged hair. They’re easy to install and can be worn in a variety of styles. Just keep in mind that they can put a lot of strain on your scalp, so be sure to take breaks every few weeks.

3. Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists are a type of protective style perfect for those with natural hair. They’re made with synthetic hair, which means they’re easy to care for and style. Plus, they can be worn at any length – from shoulder-grazing to waist-length.

4. Faux Locs

Faux locs are a great way to protect your hair while still being able to experiment with different looks. They can be made with synthetic or human hair and come in various colors and textures. Just keep in mind that they can be heavy, so be sure to give your scalp a break every few weeks.

5. Kinky Twists

Kinky twists are another protective style perfect for those with natural hair. Like Senegalese twists, they’re made with synthetic hair, which makes them easy to care for and style. Plus, they can be worn at any length – from shoulder-grazing to waist-length.

6. Cornrows

Cornrows are a classic protective style that can be worn in various ways. They’re perfect for hiding damaged or unhealthy hair and can be styled in endless ways. If you’re new to cornrows, start with small sections and work your way up to larger ones.

7. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a great option for those with natural hair. They’re easy to install and can be worn in various styles. Just keep in mind that they can put a lot of strain on your scalp, so be sure to take breaks every few weeks.

Ways to keep your mane tangle-free

Brushing your hair regularly is one of the best ways to keep it tangle-free. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair, working your way up from the ends. Be sure to use a gentle touch, so you don’t damage your hair.

Another good way to prevent tangles is to use a leave-in conditioner. This will help to keep your hair hydrated and make it easier to brush through. Apply the conditioner evenly from root to tip, then comb it through with a wide-toothed comb.

If your hair is particularly prone to tangles, try using a detangling spray or cream before you brush it. These products can help to loosen up knots and make it easier to brush through your hair.

Finally, ensure you’re using the right brush for your hair type. A boar bristle brush is a good option if you have fine, delicate hair. For thicker, coarser hair, a nylon bristle brush will work better. Experiment with different brushes until you find one that works well for your hair.