10 Protective hairstyles For Hair Growth

Hair growth seems to be on most of our bucket lists this year(I know it’s on mine). However, this may not be easy, especially for those of us with curly or coily hair. Textured hair is unique, and as stated by the American Academy of Dermatology natural hair is especially fragile and prone to damage. Luckily there are many ways to prevent damage.

When it comes to promoting hair growth and maintaining the health of your hair, protective hairstyles are a game-changer. These styles not only protect your hair from damage but also help retain length by minimizing breakage and split ends. Here’s a look at some of the best protective hairstyles that can aid in your hair growth journey.

What is protective styling?

Protective styling involves arranging your hair in ways that shield it from external stressors and minimize manipulation, thereby promoting healthier hair growth and retention. These styles, help protect the hair ends—the oldest and most fragile part of the hair strand—from damage caused by environmental factors, friction, and daily handling. By reducing the need for frequent styling and exposure to harsh elements, protective styles help maintain moisture, prevent breakage, and preserve the overall integrity of the hair.

Protective styling can significantly aid hair growth by reducing the amount of stress and damage your hair endures daily. These styles, such as braids, twists, and buns, keep the hair ends tucked away and shielded from environmental factors like harsh weather, pollution, and friction from clothing. By minimizing the need for constant manipulation, protective styling helps to prevent breakage and split ends, allowing the hair to retain length over time. Additionally, these styles help maintain moisture levels in the hair, which is crucial for healthy growth, as dry hair is more prone to breakage. Overall, protective styling creates an environment that supports stronger, longer, and healthier hair.

Now that you know what a protective style is and how it benefits your hair. Here are 10 protective styles for hair growth.

Knotless Braids

Knotless braids are a classic protective style that involves sectioning the hair into small squares and braiding each section. They can last for several weeks with proper care, reducing daily styling and manipulation. They reduce daily styling and manipulation, which helps prevent breakage and split ends.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots involve twisting small sections of hair and wrapping them into small buns. This style is great for retaining moisture and can also create beautiful curls when unraveled. Bantu knots retain moisture and can create beautiful curls when unraveled, offering a dual benefit of protection and styling.

Two Strand Twists

Two-strand twists are a simple and versatile style. They can be worn loose or pinned up, and they help to lock in moisture and prevent breakage. Two-strand twists lock in moisture and reduce friction, which helps to maintain hair health and prevent breakage.

Marley Twists

Marley twists use Marley hair extensions to create thick, rope-like twists. They offer a natural look and are gentle on your natural hair.

Benefit: Marley twists provide a natural look while being gentle on your natural hair, reducing the risk of damage.

Halo Braid

The halo braid is a chic style where a single braid wraps around your head like a crown. It’s elegant and keeps your hair neatly tucked away.

Benefit: The halo braid keeps your hair neatly tucked away, reducing exposure to environmental stressors and minimizing breakage.

Wigs

Wigs are an excellent protective style as they completely cover your natural hair. Make sure to braid or twist your hair underneath and moisturize regularly.

Benefit: Wigs completely cover and protect your natural hair, allowing it to rest and grow without daily manipulation.

Fulani Braids

Fulani braids are adorned with beads and accessories, creating a unique and intricate look. They combine cornrows and loose braids for a beautiful protective style.

Benefit: Fulani braids combine cornrows and loose braids, providing a unique and intricate look while reducing hair manipulation and breakage.

Faux Locs

Faux locs mimic the look of traditional dreadlocks without the long-term commitment. They can be created with synthetic or natural hair extensions and provide excellent protection.

Benefit: Faux locs offer a protective and stylish option that mimics dreadlocks without long-term commitment, reducing hair manipulation.

Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists are similar to Marley twists but use smoother extensions. They are lightweight and versatile, perfect for various styles.

Benefit: Senegalese twists are lightweight and versatile, offering a gentle protective style that reduces hair stress.

Cornrows

Cornrows are braided close to the scalp, creating a sleek, low-maintenance look. They can be styled in various patterns and are perfect for keeping hair protected and tangle-free.

Benefit: Cornrows keep hair close to the scalp, reducing the risk of tangling and breakage, while also being versatile for various styles.

Tips for Maintaining Protective Styles

Protective hairstyles are a fantastic way to support hair growth while reducing the damage caused by daily styling and environmental factors. By choosing the right protective style and maintaining it properly, you can achieve longer, healthier hair. Experiment with these styles to find what works best for you and enjoy the journey to longer, healthier hair!