Are you looking for cute protective styles for your natural hair this upcoming summer season?
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new hairstyles while ensuring your natural hair remains healthy and protected. The heat, humidity, and outdoor activities can be tough on your hair, but with the right protective styles, you can enjoy the season without compromising your hair’s health! Today, we’ll explore some of the best protective styles for summer, how to maintain them, and tips for keeping your hair healthy under these styles.
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10 Natural Hair Protective Styles For Summer 2024
1. Box Braids
Kicking off the list are the beloved box braids. They will never go out of style, will they? Well at least not in my opinion ☺️. Box braids are a classic protective style that is versatile and low maintenance. They can be styled in various ways, from updos to braids falling down your back, to low buns, making them perfect for summer activities.
Tips for Box Braids:
- Use synthetic hair to reduce the weight and tension on your natural hair. I love pre-stretched hair to make my life even easier! Sensationnal and Outre are both great brands.
- Keep your scalp moisturized with a light oil or leave-in conditioner. Alternatively, braid spray will also help to maintain scalp health while styled. Use at least 2-3 times a week or as needed. AllDay Locks Braid Spray would be a good one to have on deck.
- Avoid keeping the braids in for longer than 8 weeks to prevent breakage.
2. Twists
Twists, whether Senegalese, Marley, or Havana, are another great option. They are lightweight, easy to manage, and give a beautiful, natural look. Also, twists look good long or short. You could even achieve twists without added hair!
Tips for Twists:
- Regularly spritz your hair with water and a leave-in conditioner mix to maintain moisture. Make sure to spritz lightly to avoid frizzing up your twists.
- Avoid making the twists too tight to prevent tension on your scalp.
- Use twist gel or twist cream to ensure your twists stay in and avoid unraveling.
- Sleep with a satin or silk scarf to protect the twists and reduce frizz.
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3. Cornrows
Cornrows will forever be the mother of protective natural hairstyles 📣. Moreover, cornrows are versatile, stylish, and an excellent way to protect your hair. They can be worn alone or combined with extensions for added length and volume.
Tips for Cornrows:
- Ensure the cornrows are not too tight to avoid tension alopecia.
- Keep your scalp clean and moisturized.
- Experiment with different patterns and designs to keep the style fresh.
- Wear cornrows for 4-6 weeks.
4. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a chic and edgy protective style that works well for short to medium-length hair. They keep your hair tucked away and can also create beautiful curls once undone. Who doesn’t love a 2-for-1 hairstyle? 🙌🏾
Tips for Bantu Knots:
- Use a moisturizing cream or butter when creating the knots to keep your hair hydrated.
- Avoid making the knots too tight to prevent scalp tension.
- Refresh the knots every few days to keep them looking neat.
- Wear the style for at least two weeks, but if you want them to last a little longer, add some hair!
5. Wigs
Wigs are a versatile protective style that allows you to change your look without manipulating your natural hair. They come in various textures, lengths, and colors, offering endless styling possibilities. For example, lace front wigs are a popular option amongst naturalistas.
These wigs have a lace base at the front, providing a natural-looking hairline and allowing for various styling options. Furthermore, some wigs need minimal manipulation before wear, such as cutting off the lace or plucking off more hair for super realistic-looking edges.
Did you know that lace-front wigs can also come in box braids and twists?! When styled correctly, you can skip sitting for hours getting braids or twists and put on a lace-front wig instead. I’m telling you 🫵🏾 the possibilities and looks are endless!
Tips for Wigs:
- Always wear a wig cap to protect your natural hair.
- Take breaks between wearing wigs to let your scalp breathe.
- Keep your natural hair clean, moisturized, and braided down under the wig.
RELATED: How to Style Natural Hair – Everyone Loves #5
6. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are a popular and time-efficient protective style. They involve cornrowing your natural hair and then crocheting synthetic hair extensions onto the braids. Do you want to go for a crochet look with multiple style choices?
If so, go for the individual illusion rubber band or braid method. The illusion method is parting your hair into neat boxes, braiding, or rubber banding each section, and crocheting the extensions onto your hair. The individual illusion method is more time-consuming but worth it for the final look. It’s a game-changer and a lifesaver if you do not want to get individual braids or twists.
Tips for Crochet Braids:
- Choose lightweight synthetic hair to avoid adding too much tension to your natural hair.
- Regularly moisturize your scalp to keep it healthy.
- Avoid scratching your scalp with sharp objects to prevent damage.
7. Faux Locs
I love, love LOVE faux locs. Summer always comes to mind when I think of this hairstyle. Faux locs provide the look of natural locs without the long-term commitment. That is the BEST PART. Furthermore, faux locs are stylish, and versatile, and protect your natural hair.
Tips for Faux Locs:
- Use lightweight synthetic hair to reduce tension on your scalp.
- Keep your scalp moisturized and clean.
- Avoid keeping the style for over 8 weeks to prevent matting and breakage.
- Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase or use a large silk or satin bonnet to secure the locs at night.
8. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are thicker cornrows that can be styled in various ways, including updos, ponytails, and buns. They are perfect for summer because they are low maintenance and keep your hair off your neck.
Also, be sure to add some creativity or individuality to this style. Braid rings, hair jewels, braid cuffs, or shell hair rings would add a beautiful touch to this elegant style.
Tips for Goddess Braids:
- Ensure the braids are not too tight to avoid tension and breakage.
- Moisturize your scalp regularly.
- Cover your hair with a satin scarf or bonnet at night to keep the style neat.
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9. Halo Braid
The halo braid is a beautiful and elegant protective style where your hair is braided around your head like a crown. It’s perfect for special occasions and keeps your hair protected and stylish. Furthermore, the halo braid can be dressed up with accessories such as braid cuffs or hair beads. Another great addition to the halo braid would be to leave out some curly tendrils on each side of the head.
Tips for Halo Braid:
- Use a light gel or cream to smooth down flyaways and edges.
- Secure the braid with bobby pins to keep it in place.
- Refresh the style every few days to maintain its neat appearance.
Last but not least..
10. Pineapple Updo
A pineapple updo is a great option for those with curly or coily hair. It involves gathering your hair at the top of your head, resembling a pineapple, and can be accessorized with a scarf or headband. Furthermore, the pineapple updo can be done on freshly washed hair or as a refresher from an old twist-out or wash-and-go.
Tips for Pineapple Updo:
- Use a silk or satin scrunchie to prevent breakage.
- Moisturize your hair before styling to keep it hydrated.
- Protect your hair at night with a satin bonnet or scarf to maintain the style.
- Don’t forget to slick your edges for a polished look.
So, there you have it!
Protective styles are an amazing way to enjoy the summer while keeping your natural hair healthy and breakage-free. Whether you opt for box braids, twists, cornrows, Bantu knots, wigs, or crochet braids, ensure you follow proper maintenance routines and give your hair the care it deserves.
Remember, the key to healthy hair under protective styles is moisture, gentle handling, and regular care.
Have you tried any of these natural hair protective styles for summer? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more hair care tips and style inspiration.
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