Looking for inspiration for a protective hairstyle for natural hair? We’ve got you covered. Protective styles are not just about aesthetics, they are a way of maintaining the health of type 4 hair. These styles help to minimize manipulation, reduce tangling, and protect your hair from environmental stressors. By shielding your hair from breakage and split ends, protective styles allow for better moisture retention and length retention, which is especially important if your goal is to have healthy long natural hair. In this post, will give you an overview of the most popular protective hairstyles.
The most popular protective hairstyles
- Box Braids
Box braids are a timeless protective style that is both stylish and versatile. They can be worn long or short, thick or thin, and can be accessorized with beads and cuffs. Box braids are ideal for summer as they allow your scalp to breathe while keeping your ends tucked away.
- Twists
Twists are another fantastic option for protecting type 4 hair. Whether you opt for two-strand twists, Senegalese twists, or Havana twists, this style is easy to install and can last for several weeks with proper care. Twists can be styled in various ways, including buns, updos, and ponytails, making them perfect for any summer occasion.
- Cornrows
Cornrows are a classic protective style that can be worn in intricate patterns or simple straight-back rows. This style is excellent for keeping your hair close to your scalp, which helps in reducing frizz and tangling. Cornrows can also be a great base for other styles like wigs or crochet braids, offering versatility and protection.
- Bantu Knots
For a bold and beautiful summer look, consider Bantu knots. This style involves sectioning your hair and twisting it into small, coiled buns. Bantu knots are a protective style and a great way to create heatless curls. Once you take them down, you’re left with a stunning curly fro, perfect for summer outings.
- Wigs
Wigs are an excellent protective style, allowing you to switch up your look without manipulating your natural hair. Ensure your natural hair is cornrowed or braided underneath, and always wear a wig cap to protect your edges. Wigs provide a shield against sun damage and allow you to experiment with different lengths, textures, and colors without any risk to your real hair.
- Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are a versatile and low-maintenance style that can mimic the look of natural hair, braids, or twists. This style involves crocheting hair extensions into cornrows, offering a protective barrier while giving you a voluminous and stylish look. They are lightweight and perfect for a summer-friendly, breathable hairstyle.
Embracing protective hairstyles can keep your type 4 hair healthy, vibrant, and beautiful. However, despite their name, protective styles can sometimes cause damage if not done correctly. It’s crucial to ensure that your hairstylist installs your chosen style properly. Additionally, protective hairstyles will lose their effectiveness if you don’t take care of your tresses while wearing your style and during the takedown process. Which protective hairstyle will you be choosing?
