Protective Hairstyles: Your Complete Guide And Must-Have Products | Hair.com By L'Oréal
Protective Hairstyles: Your Complete Guide And Must-Have Products
Protective Hairstyles 101
Your complete care and styling guide.
If you have naturally curly hair, chances are good you’ve heard of protective hairstyles before. Protective hairstyles for natural hair are one of the best ways to give your mane a much-needed break from daily styling without having to sacrifice style. Not sure which protective hairstyle is right for you? You’ll have to consider your hair type and concerns. A protective hairstyle can be as simple as a braid or as intricate as passion twists—the key is to make sure the most fragile parts of your hair are tucked away from any environmental or styling stressors.
First, think about how long you want to wear your protective style. Looking to take a few weeks off from daily styling? Braids or twists will be a good fit for you. If your hair is thick and your strands are strong, your options are pretty much endless—Senegalese twists, faux locs, box braids—the choice is yours! If your hair is a bit more fragile, opt for low-tension protective hairstyles like knotless braids. Not ready to commit to one style for several weeks but want to give your strands a long weekend off? Opt for a simple braid or flat twists that will unravel to reveal a beautiful twist out.
While protective hairstyles give you a break from day-to-day styling, it’s not the time to skimp out on hair care. Maintaining your usual shampoo and conditioner routine is crucial to the success of your protective style. Lucky for you, there are tons of products that will keep your hair looking and feeling healthy without disturbing your style.
Want to learn more about protective hairstyles? Keep scrolling for everything you need to know, including which products will keep your protective style looking its best and how to keep your scalp in tip-top condition.
Try The Trend
Mizani
Style Shifter Society Wonder Crown Scalp Foaming Pre-Cleanser
A foaming pre-cleanser that refreshes and balances your scalp.
One size only for Style Shifter Society Wonder Crown Scalp Foaming Pre-Cleanser
6.8 fl oz
Mizani
Scalp Care Calming Lotion
A leave-in scalp lotion for dry scalps.
One size only for Scalp Care Calming Lotion
4 fl oz
Mizani
25 Miracle Nourishing Oil
A hair oil treatment for frizzy or curly hair.
One size only for 25 Miracle Nourishing Oil
4.2 fl oz
Mizani
Moisture Fusion Clarifying Shampoo
A clarifying shampoo that gently cleanses textured hair.
Select a Size for Moisture Fusion Clarifying Shampoo
16.9 fl oz33.8 fl oz
Mizani
Moisture Fusion Intense Moisture Mask
An intense moisturizing hair mask.
One size only for Moisture Fusion Intense Moisture Mask
16.9 fl oz
What The Pros Say:
- Installation is key—opt for styles that aren’t too tight or heavy on your natural strands.
- Your ends are the most fragile part of your hair, be sure your chosen style keeps them hidden from unnecessary environmental and styling stressors.
- With proper care, some protective styles can last anywhere from six to 12 weeks.
- Taking a break from daily styling doesn’t mean taking a break from hair care. Be sure to wash and condition your hair regularly.
- Reach for a scalp treatment to soothe an itchy, irritated scalp.