TOP 5 PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES FOR NATURAL HAIR

5 W I N T E R P R O T E C T I V E H A I R S T Y L E S F O R N A T U R A L H A I R

Written By: Yakira Muhammad

If you’re a black woman with natural hair, then you know right around November, everyone is rushing into the beauty salon to get their hair styled and protected for the winter. The harsh winter is known to damage roots, dry out hair and irritate the scalp. Despite your natural hair type, protective styles can be utilized to keep your hair covered from cold temperatures.

These five hairstyles below are trendy and are guaranteed to provide hair protection during the winter.

Knotless Braids - New and Sleek

Knotless braids are the latest hairstyle that has taken the hair community by storm. These are box braids 2.0. Instead of the traditional knot at the root of box braids, knotless braids are created by inserting small pieces of braiding hair further down the shaft instead of at the root. This creates a sleek, neater look hence why they are becoming the go-to hairstyle. Another benefit is less tension on the scalp derived from minimal pulling at the root. This will prevent hair loss, unlike other protective styles. Knotless braids can last up from two to three months depending on hair texture. Faux Locs - Afro-Centric

Over the last few years, faux locs have become a popular favorite for natural sistas. Faux locs resemble real locs but there is one main difference. Unlike traditional locs, faux locs are temporary and usually last up to six weeks depending on the hair type. There are two ways to install faux locs — the braid and wrap method and the cornrow/crochet method. The latter takes significantly less time (three-five hours) but doesn’t give the illusion of real locs coming out of your scalp. Before installing faux locs, make sure your hair is washed, moisturized, and healthy. Faux locs can add tension to your scalp, so it’s best not to make them too heavy or install them too tight. Faux locs can last up to 8 weeks.

Headband wigs are a form of wigs that have a headband attached to them. Headband wigs are known for their convenience since there is no glue or sewing involved. Unlike some wigs, headband wigs are less expensive (starting as low as $30), natural-looking, and comfortable to wear. Most headband wigs are durable and long-lasting. Some headband wigs can last several weeks or up to several months. Since headband wigs don’t have to be glued or sewed down, they cause minimal damage to natural hair. Most people cornrow their natural hair under their wig and oil their scalp daily.

Feed-in Braids - Tribal and Trendy

Feed-in braids are a spin-off to traditional cornrows. Unlike traditional cornrows, the feed-in technique is when hair extensions are gradually woven into your natural hair. This will establish a more natural-looking braid and provide less tension on the hairline. Depending on the size, feed-in braids can last anywhere from two-six weeks.

Box Braids - Oldie But Goodie

Box braids have been around for years and are still popular today. Box braids come in all different sizes with the bigger sizes referred to as “Poetic Justice Braids”. Over the last year, some box braids styles evolved from classic straight ends to having curly ends. Box braids are a go-to because they can last up to 8 weeks usually without a touch-up. To maintain box braids is critical to oil your hair daily, pamper your edges and wrap your hair at night.

Winter brings cold temperatures that can be harmful to natural hair. During this season, it’s best to keep your natural hair hidden and protective hairstyles such as the ones listed above are great for achieving that. It doesn’t matter what your natural hair type is or your budget, there is a protective hairstyle that can work for you. You just have to explore different styles and see what you look and feel best in.