Protective styles are essential for maintaining healthy natural hair. These versatile styling options help retain moisture, prevent breakage, and promote growth while offering stunning looks for any occasion.
Discover our comprehensive collection of 50 beautiful protective styles that will transform your natural hair journey while keeping your locks healthy, protected, and absolutely gorgeous!
1. Chignon Protective Styles for Natural Hair
If you are one of the fortunate ladies who have succeeded in growing out their natural locks, this style is a must! After properly relaxing your hair, twist the sides and tuck the ends in a safe and stylish chignon.
2. Faux Locs
Dreadlocks are a beloved hairstyle, but we all know how much long-term damage they can cause. For a more gentle approach with a similar visual impact, consider faux locs instead. They look ravishing and are a great protective style as well!
3. Protective Hairstyles for Hair Growth
If your aim is to grow back your natural hair, you should only consider protective styles that put as little strain as possible on your locks. For instance, this twisted crown hairstyle is nowhere near tight so it should not cause hair breakage.
4. Havana Twists
For a tropical island gal look, Havana twists can easily become your next hairstyle! They are made of a two-strand twist that, in this case, gracefully flows from a dreamy hairdo. The brown balayage goes to complete the look.
5. Protective Styles for Short Natural Hair
There are several protective hairstyles that you can wear even if you are still at the beginning of your regrowth journey and still have rather short hair. For example, consider going for flat twists or even some half flat twists that end in cute curls.
6. Protective Hairstyles for Transitioning Hair
Similar to the abovementioned hairstyle, this look mixes flat twists with adorable corkscrew curls – and all on short curly pixie hairstyle. It’s an exceptional way to protect the locks while transitioning to natural hair.
7. Box Braids
As far as braided hairstyles for African-American women are concerned, box braids are easily in the Top 3 most beloved list. They come with a myriad of benefits: you can vary their width and also make them on any hair types and lengths.
8. Ghana Braids
Ghana braids are yet another very endearing protective hairstyle besides box braids. This jumbo version is undoubtedly eye-catching – partly thanks to their thickness. In the example above, they were also styled in a high ponytail that falls over one shoulder.
9. TWA Protective Styles
The Teeny Weeny Afro, or TWA for short, is one of the first major steps in embracing natural hair. After undergoing the BC (Big Chop), you can start growing your afro curls. To protect them throughout the transition, consider going for this hairstyle.
10. Half Up Twists
Twisted braids are a dream come true in terms of afro-textured hair care. They are part of the loose braids category – meaning that they won’t distress your hair any further. The high twist updo is also just one of the many great ways to wear them.
11. Protective Hairstyles Braids
Speaking of braids, this photo proves our point in the most beautiful way possible. Although there’s a long road to getting natural hair with this length, you can still perfectly protect your locks with extensions in this style.
12. Goddess Braids
Women with bold personalities will simply adore goddess braids! These big, breathtaking, and brilliantly safe braids will surely make you stand out! Also, the metallic bead accessories are super stylish and one of the prominent elements of Fulani braids – which were probably the source of inspiration.
13. Nubian Twists
If you’re all for spring coil locks, then Nubian twists are the protective styles for you! After getting these braids in place, you will enjoy a unique texture that will make raking your hands through your hair a real pleasure.
14. Flat Twist Protective Style
We can’t stress enough how significant flat twists are among protective styles. The photo above goes to show a full flat twist on natural hair that helps delicately protect your locks from any harm – including heat damage.
15. Protective Hairstyles for Relaxed Hair
Once your natural hair grows long (or even your protective one) there is an entire world of infinite styling possibilities and ways to wear it. To get really creative with your hairstyle, consider going for a long-haired updo. This example shows how jaw-dropping they can turn out to be!
16. Senegalese Twists
Yet another way to make the most of those long strands while shielding your natural locks from any harm is to go for Senegalese twists. In case you were wondering or did not know, their name comes from their area of origin. Don’t hesitate to try either short or long twists to see which ones suit best!
17. Natural Protective Styles
Twists are a fundamental part of styling your natural hair once it’s grown out. If you decide to go for a playful hairstyle like this one, make sure that you don’t twist your locks too tightly.
18. Marley Twists
When we hear Marley twists, we think about the celebrated musician who inspired and gave them their name, Bob Marley. However, Marley twists also refer to the hair used for this braided hairstyle – coarser hair for chunkier braids.
19. Protective Hairstyles with Extensions
Extensions play a crucial role in hairstyles for women, especially ones at the beginning of their natural hair transition. As your natural locks will be extremely short, you can extend the length of the hair through various braided extensions.
20. Kinky Twists
If you aim for a natural, afro-like look, then consider experimenting with kinky twists. These funky braids can be kept for a few weeks at a time – so they are easy to maintain too. This photo also shows a popular cut for kinky twists, so keep this layered approach in mind.
21. Natural Hair Bun
Protective styles also include buns as well as they are a terrific way of preserving natural hair. After all, you didn’t invest time, money, and patience into growing your hair for your efforts to be in vain, right?
22. Winter Protective Styles
If the weather outside is frightful, it is best to cushion your locks as you would shield your body from the cold. A simple way to do so is with a braided updo which, while it will expose the face, it will nonetheless keep your locks in place.
23. Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair with Weave
There’s quite a talk regarding the safety of weaves. While they can indeed protect the hair, they can also destroy it if they’re too glued or tightly installed. The best solution is to work with an expert stylist and speak to them openly about your objective of growth and protection.
24. Short Box Braids
While you will often find box braids in long versions, their shorter alternatives look just as fabulous. Get inspired and go for popular haircuts to give shape to those – for example, go for an inverted long bob like in this photo.
25. Funky and Protective Hairstyles
Olayinka Mia Noel is an international model that countless women look up to for her natural beauty. She is also an avid supporter of the natural hair community and commonly appear with funky protective styles like this one on her social media accounts.
26. Protective Styles for Summer
After covering protective hairstyles for winter, it’s natural that we would recommend some summer counterparts as well. To fight the heat in a glamorous way, go for a braided updo such as this flower crown. Not only is it safe for the hair, but it also fits casual and fancy events alike.
27. Cute Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair
Channeling your inner teen? Then dare to go for a playful and youthful hairstyle! You can even take a trip back to the 90s with a super pretty hairstyle with half up space buns. They look fantastic on spring twists!
28. Faux Hawks
Repeat after us, ladies: “Roll and Tuck”! Once you get the hang of these techniques, they will become your ultimate natural hair mantra. Together, they serve as an unbeatable method for guarding your natural hair with numerous styles.
29. Headwrap Hairstyles
What better way to secure natural locks than with a charming and inspiring hair accessory? Not only are headwraps extremely fashionable, but they’re also a delightful way to go back to ones roots.
30. Protective Braid Styles
Keep the braids coming, girls! An example of braided protective styles, we want to point out the enchanting parting technique upon installation. Express your creativity by adding diamond shapes (or whatever shape or size you choose) for each braid.
31. Elegant Pompadours
The classic pompadour will ensure a dazzling appearance at any special occasion – be it a wedding or a black-tie office party – and will do so while also safeguarding the hair!
32. Curly Protective Styles for TWA
Hands down, one of the best ways of showing off TWAs is by getting those curls popping! Make sure to start off with a haircut that properly accentuates the hair’s natural shape and then let the curls bounce around freely!
33. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a traditional African hairstyle that has been worn for hundreds of years, and it keeps trending to this very day. Above, see how you can also give them a modern touch by adding some highlights to the hair.
34. Easy Protective Styles
Tiime is on my side – but actually not? No need to worry, for this easy and protective style will work wonders even on short notice. Women with medium or long hair can braid their way to this angelic updo in a few minutes – still, make it a few times before relying on it for when you are in a rush.
35. Full Wigs
If you long for colors or textures that would normally destroy your hair, it’s best to go for a full wig. In recent years, wigs have become more and more popular among celebrities with all types of hair textures. Essentially, they’re the key to changing your look in a second and with 0 damage.
36. Micro Braids
Gabrielle Union holds a special place in our hearts for more than one reason. In this shot, you can admire her micro braids – and then start considering getting some for yourself too!
37. Protective Styles for Kids
We’re back to space buns, this time in a version that will appeal to any kid – be it a small girl or a young soul. The hairstyle is incredibly adorable for young ladies and will also help shield their natural curls from harm. Also, the baby hair is the icing on the cake!
38. Quick Protective Styles
As promised, here is another protective hairstyle for women on the go. On natural hair that is already long, it is easy to gently create a twisted braid and then style it to the side and over the shoulder. After mastering the braiding technique, you can get the look in less than 5 minutes.
39. Clip-In Hairstyles
Remember what we said about the concern surrounding weaves? Well, an extraordinary way to avoid any hair scares is to get a clip-in weave. In other words, all there is to do is to clip in the extensions. That is all!
40. Cornrows Protective Style
Cornrows have been popular for ages but, to add a touch of cretaivity to them, don’t hesitate to play around with their design and even add feed-in models, like above!
41. Afro Puffs
Looking for a hairstyle that will guard your hair while also accentuating your voluminous curls? Then Afro puffs are the way to go! This is fun and very pretty way of keeping the hair up and relaxed and also shocasing those natural curls.
42. Crochet Braids Protective Style
If curls are your main focus, then crochet braids are the answer (no matter the question). This technique will give anyone large, perfectly shaped curls that can also be styled to frame the face or to leave it free. Also, crochet braids can be installed on long and short hair alike.
43. Halo Braids
Whether you call them crown braids or halo braids, these beauties will surely create a hairstyle that is impossible to forget. They are the perfect style if you want to add a boho touch to your festival look or even at a wedding.
44. Protective Styles for Thinning Edges
If you are struggling with thinning edges, the faux hawk can help conceal them and show off the rest of your locks. Make sure that you are gentle with the edges though so you won’t cause any further damage throughout the repair process.
45. Sisterlocks Hairstyles
Want to combine the ideas of curls and braids? Then welcome to sisterlocks, the ideal blend that will offer you the best of both worlds. The braids are similar to micro-ones, while the strands are super curly all around.
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46. Protective Bridal Hairstyles
After choosing the dress of your dreams, think about the perfect hairstyle to complement it. This goddess braided updo might just be the one!
47. Long Braided Protective Styles
Hair extensions are lifesavers for multiple reasons. Aside from their obvious protective factor, they can also be worn extremely long. For instance, you can extend your cornrows with waist-length braids of the same size.
48. Protective Updo Styles
If you plan on wearing your hair up – and weraing it free flowing is a rare occasion – then consider getting it braided directly into an updo. For this, you will have ascending braids all around, leaving the top perfect for ponytails or high buns.
49. Turban Hairstyles
For 100% protection in harmful weather conditions, don’t hesitate to rock a turban. You can pick a headscarf with a pattern that reflects your personality and wrap up all your hair in it. It’s a lovely way to accentuate your facial features too and can be worn even just as a style element.
50. Professional Protective Hairstyles
Last but not least, we want to leave you with a protective hairstyle that can be worn in an office environment. This locks style is pulled back into a sleek ponytail, making it perfectly suitable and appropriate in a corporate setting.
Ready to Change Your Look?
In summary, there is an endless variety of protective styles to choose from. No matter what hairstyle you pick, you should know that caring for afro-textured hair requires time, patience, and plenty of love!
We warmly encourage all of you to put a bit of time and effort into taking care of your curls, as the benefits will outnumber the effort in the end. But let’s focus on you! What’s your favorite protective style?
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Curly Hair Challenge Solver
Experiencing specific issues with your curly hair? Use this interactive tool to find targeted solutions.
Frizz Control
Tame unwanted frizz and flyaways
Frizz Control Solutions
- Apply styling products to soaking wet hair
- Use anti-humidity products with hold polymers
- Try the “gel sandwich” method (leave-in, gel, oil)
- Avoid touching curls while drying
- Switch to a silk pillowcase
Expert Tip: “The single biggest cause of frizz is touching your hair while it dries.” – Vernon François
See More Expert AdviceCurl Definition
Enhance your natural curl pattern
Definition Solutions
- Use curl-specific products with protein
- Apply styling products with “praying hands” method
- Try finger coiling for stubborn sections
- Diffuse upside down for better curl formation
- Consider a curl-specific haircut with layers
Expert Tip: “Definition starts in the shower—fully detangle with conditioner in before styling.” – Jen Atkin
See Defined Curl StylesDryness & Damage
Restore moisture and repair damage
Moisture Solutions
- Deep condition weekly with heat
- Implement protein-moisture balance routine
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase
- Use leave-in conditioner daily
- Consider a trim to remove damaged ends
Expert Tip: “Damaged curls need both moisture AND protein—not just moisture.” – Chris Appleton
See Repair TechniquesLimp or Flat Curls
Add bounce and volume
Volume Solutions
- Use root clips while drying
- Try a lightweight mousse instead of heavy creams
- Diffuse upside down or sideways
- Use a pick at the roots only (not lengths)
- Consider a layered haircut for built-in volume
Expert Tip: “For maximum volume, avoid weighing curls down with too much product.” – Takisha Sturdivant-Drew
See Voluminous StylesFrequently Asked Questions About Protective Styles
What are protective styles for natural hair?
Protective styles are hairstyles that minimize manipulation and exposure of your natural hair to environmental stressors. They help reduce breakage, retain moisture, and promote hair growth by keeping the ends of your hair tucked away and protected from daily wear and tear.
How long should I keep a protective style in?
Most protective styles can be kept for 2-8 weeks, depending on the style and your hair’s needs. Braided styles like box braids can typically last 6-8 weeks, while twists might last 2-4 weeks. It’s important not to keep any protective style in for too long as this can lead to buildup, matting, and potentially damage your hair.
How do I maintain my natural hair while in a protective style?
Maintain your natural hair in a protective style by keeping your scalp clean with a diluted shampoo or apple cider vinegar rinse, moisturizing regularly with a water-based spray, massaging your scalp with lightweight oils, and protecting your style at night with a satin bonnet or pillowcase.
Can protective styles damage hair?
While protective styles are designed to protect your hair, they can cause damage if installed too tightly (causing tension alopecia), kept in for too long, or not properly maintained. Ensure your stylist doesn’t braid or twist too tightly, and take breaks between protective styles to give your hair and scalp time to breathe.
What are the best protective styles for hair growth?
The best protective styles for hair growth include flat twists, two-strand twists, box braids (not too small or tight), Bantu knots, and updos that don’t cause tension on the edges. Styles that completely tuck away your ends will provide maximum protection and promote length retention.
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Susan is a successful hair stylist who chose to combine two of her biggest passions: writing and styling! When she is not sharing her experience with out readers, Susan updates her skills and knowledge with new styling courses and trainings. She specializes in event hair and makeup and is working on her own illustrated hairstyle book.
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