A Beginner’s Guide to Protective Styling!
I recently expounded upon the life of being an efficient, lazy Naturalista and the ease of wearing my hair in a protective natural hairstyle until my next wash day. Many of you may wonder, “Are two-strand twists the only protective style?”, “Can I switch up my protective styles to make them more wearable?” “What are my options?”. Luckily, there are a plethora of protective hairstyles to choose from that can last as short or as long as you desire. I would recommend wearing a protective style no longer than one to two months because your coils need time to breathe, and there will always be built up shedding that needs to be released. Here is my guide to protective styling. Are you ready?
1. Faux Locs, Marley Twists, Box Braids, and Crochet styles
Many Naturalistas and black women in general love installing braids, twist, and loc extensions in their hair because of the ease of manageability, style variation, and chic-ness. There are many variations of twists and braids to choose from, such as Marley twists, Senegalese twists, and Goddess Locs. These braided and twisted extensions can also be crocheted into the hair as an alternative to direct installation! Because of the style variation, these hairstyles are some of the most common protective styles in the natural hair community. However, prepping your hair for these styles is essential to the longevity of them and whether your hair will result in growth after the style takedown. Before installation, be sure to wash, deep condition, and use the LCO, LOC, or your preferred moisturizing routine to prep your hair for installation. The last thing you want is breakage after your style takedown because your hair did not receive the proper moisture prep.
2. Wigs Galore
Another standard protective style is wearing wigs! Wigs happen to be the most versatile protective style and the most beneficial. Depending on the type of wig you purchase, your natural hair will be wholly covered, resulting in the most growth due to no manipulation. There is a wide range of wig types and styles to choose from. Some people like to switch up textures, and others prefer to mimic their hair texture with their preferred wig. Whatever you decide, have fun with style versatility and be a new person every day if you choose! The most important thing to remember is moisture prep. Implement the same routine I mentioned previously and decide if you want to flatten your hair down with braids or flat twists. I feel that flat twists cause less tension on the hair and will result in less shed hair, resulting in more length retention.
3. Protect Naturally
The last tip in my guide is to wear your natural hair in a protective style. No, it does not have to be two-strand twists. There is an assortment of styles to choose from, such as braided or twisted up-do’s, loose buns, cornrows, mini-twists, crown braids or twists, head wraps, and more! Get creative with your styles, but always remember to implement your moisture prep routine. I hope this style guide gave you all some more ideas about protective styling and your options for your natural hair. Let me know your favorite protective style or if you all have any questions!
Keep it coily,
Nia
















