Passionate author specializing in the vibrant world of hairstyling. With a knack for unraveling trends and sharing expert insights, Marissa crafts engaging content on the latest hairstyles, techniques, and industry innovations. Committed to empowering readers with knowledge, inspiration, and the confidence to embrace their unique style.
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Born and based in San Jose, California, Nikki Goddard has always had a passion for hair styling and unusual makeup techniques. At the age of 20, she started her education in The Salon Professional Academy and went on an extensive program in hair salons. Today, Nikki is a certified hair stylist and makeup artist with an associate degree in cosmetology. Currently, Nikki is a senior editor at therighthairstyles.com. She takes pride in being the root of inspiration for not only herself, but the entire team at The Right Hairstyles magazine. Her mission is to make the beauty industry available to everyone, and she enjoys teaching people the basics of hairstyling and makeup through the magazine’s articles. Nikki’s attention to detail and her ability to create a unique look that complements each client’s individuality is what continues to motivate her each day.
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@chimeedwards
The vibe of this exotic Nubian hairstyle is unique and glamorous. A stark center part and braids feed into a massive bun at the nape of the neck. It’s a dramatic cornrow style that is as protective as it is stunning.
Blessed with thick, dense hair, African-American women have many hairstyle options to showcase their natural charm and beauty. However, natural hair may need special care because of its dryness and brittleness, or a protective hairdo, aimed to limit the stress of environmental factors.
Check these 60 easy yet captivating protective hairstyles that are the real saviors for black hair, along with tips on how to care for natural hair to feel confident about your look.
@rareessenceacademy
Some natural hairstyles like box braids and jumbo cornrows can pull on edges or weigh your strands down, which is the exact opposite of what you want. In order to combat this, you can opt for twists. They have the same effect but are lighter and easier to wear.
When it comes to free-hanging shorter hairstyles, the bob-length multiple braids all over the head are ideal. The best part of braids? They last for weeks and take slim to zero effort to maintain.
@modernsalon
The shorter layered twists look great, and it’s a perfect example of modern and easy protective styles. The front section can work as bangs framing the face and bringing in a cute asymmetrical element into your updo. The back is styled in an elegant upswept style that delivers a little extra height and a lot of classy vibes.
@brianalynee
Part your long or short hair on the side and twist the front sections into an ultra-feminine Bohemian braid. The hairstyle is fast and easy to accomplish at home with no special tools involved.
@essie__n
The versatility of flat twists is unmatched and you are really only limited by your imagination when creating a hairstyle with them. This flat twisted updo is elegant and can be achieved on almost any hair length.
@rareessenceacademy
A pineapple updo is when you pile your hair at the front of your head. It can also be used as a way to sleep with curls and twist-outs without crushing the style.
@jd_winters
Women with a short natural mane have to deal with shrinkage after washing, which makes hair appear more cropped than it really is.Because of this, many updos are out of the question. If you want to add texture or flair, try individual twists or braids.
@modernsalon
Two long twist braids are a wonderful choice for medium-length hair when it needs to be protected from damaging heat and sun. The braids are just perfect – feminine and attractive with no special colors or accessories added.
@dr_kami
Like flat twists, cornrows are the MVP of hairstyle versatility. This cornrow hairstyle is absolutely perfect if you’re looking for a fresh take on braids for the summer. The lower back length braids are totally beachy and laid back. Just remember to be gentle on your edges during installation.
@shellyafrikhair
This is not a hairstyle to do at home easily, but an experienced braider can copy it for you. Once it’s done, you’ll see it’s low maintenance and you’ll wear it with pleasure for a while. It produces a fun, fresh look that can be viewed as both sporty and elegant. If you don’t like flat twists, you can easily substitute for cornrows.
@kinkycurlybeauty
Protect your natural curls with a series of buns piled on top of your head like a Mohawk. Buns are a popular hairstyle because they look simple and classy and work even for shorter hair.
@dr_kami
Wearing your hair in medium layered twists is a quick and easy way to protect it as it’s growing out from a shorter length. The twists are given the desired direction and cascade beautifully on your shoulders and upper back.
@returning2natural
A low bun is an easy and classic look for any occasion, but if you want to make it more elegant, you can add a face-framing roll. This is ideal if you have a work presentation, lunch meeting or after hours event.
@modernsalon
Are you in the market for a braided hairstyle that looks great and is fast and easy to put together? Go for this diagonally parted chunky asymmetrical braid. The bright bronze highlighting is a spicy touch that makes all the difference.
@_whitneythestylist
A single chunky braid makes an impact when it’s plumped up into a big, voluminous Mohawk. The chunky middle section and an extra thin tip of the braid create a cool contrast. It’s perfect for natural hair that needs to be protected in a comfortable, easy-to-manage style.
@dyacoiffure
Short hair can be braided into a series of curvy cornrows to achieve a modern and attractive hairstyle. The loose twists on top add extra height and a feminine touch. Their ends fall to one side creating some sort of playful bangs.
@touchofheavenartistry
A supersized bun is a fabulous way to wear your long hair if you want a style that is feminine and easy to do on your own at home. A single thin twist adorned with golden cuffs winds around the bun and acts as a crown, framing the face in an elegant way. Baby-soft sideburn curls add a cute princess-like appeal.
@abbiecurls
This flat twisted hairstyle that is pulled back into an elegant chignon is totally giving us a summer wedding vibe. Whether you’re a bride, a bridesmaid or simply a wedding guest, this chignon should definitely be on your short list of hairstyles.
@stylequeenbeauty
The crown twist braid with a chignon is a unique “quick and cheap” option for 4c black hair that looks very elegant and sophisticated. Best suited to medium length hair, it can be worn to office or even as a wedding hairstyle.
@lawandapierrehair
Show off your beautiful forehead and smooth skin with a non-banal braided updo like this one. Two chunky braids are parted in the middle and wrapped around the head, creating a feminine silhouette that works great with natural hair or extensions.
@itsmebfairley
Just because you have short hair does not mean that you don’t have options. Bigger twists allow you to have a textured updo even if your hair is too cropped to grab into a ponytail or bun. An ombre or surface highlights will also add visual interest and dimension to thick hair.
@soglossy
Another style that displays the versatility of flat twists, this is the perfect hairstyle for anyone looking for a fresh take on a classic bun. Suitable for every occasion, be it staying at home or heading off on vacation, this style is a great option for keeping hair protected and off your neck and back during the hot summer months.
@embracehairartsalon
This hairstyle is ideal on mornings when your hair is wet and you don’t have time for a full twist out. The style shown can be achieved with a simple two-strand twist or even a Dutch roll if you are really crunched for time.
@mahoganycurls
Braid or twist your hair close to the scalp, starting at the nape of the neck up to the top. Repeat this in small sections all over the head and top it off with a head full of gorgeous ringlets. The stunning explosion of cute curls up top will become the focal point of your hairstyle at the front, while the braids or twists will enhance its visual interest from the sides and back.
@yourhair_mycare
Hairstyles that aim to protect your hair often involve a fusion of many components. In this case, a braid, bun and carefully angled hair parts across the scalp work together for a pretty final result.
@katahlia.blue
If you don’t have time to deal with cornrows, go for some flat twists to make sure your naturally short hair stays protected. Tightly wound and parted on the side, it’s a style that looks classy and quaint.
@iprotecttresses
One of the classiest protective looks for thick locks, the asymmetrical updo involves chunky braids that wrap the head gracefully and create a fancy hairstyle based on the rather simple flat twist technique.
@actually_ashly
Updos with bangs are always in a winner in our books and these mini twists are great because they offer minimal styling. Let them hang free to one side or pin them over for a sleek side-swept bang effect. Perhaps our favorite way to style twisted bangs is to pull them back into a pompadour. So chic!
@hairbyhighlylifted
Pairing cornrows and two-strand twists is a great way to add additional texture and visual interest to a hair style. Twists add a softness that braids do not provide which makes them perfect for styles with bangs such as this one.
@sandybeautyhair
A nape-to-forehead braided updo is a go-to choice for those with shorter locks. It protects your hair by keeping it out of the way and looks funky and fresh.
@nakawunde
This style is rich in cultural heritage and has a cool boho vibe. Its two knotted braids are gorgeous and self-sufficient, but when complemented by the beaded cornrows, they create the hippie look that was made for happy sunny days.
@ayeciara
Here we see a hairstyle that protects hair from the scalp to the ends. Tiny front-to-back cornrows that feed into chunky twisted braids give you the best of both worlds: beauty and protection!
@thegriynthumb
The simple lines of these flat twists are cute and eye-catching. Angled sections of the dark brown hair are laid out in an organized geometric pattern. The delicate laid edges add a sweet, feminine flair.
@syeda_bombom
Want to protect your natural hair and look like a celebrity? It’s easy to do with Alicia Keys-inspired Fulani braids, shown here in jet black. The center part accented with one single braid down the middle keeps it simple, straightforward and elegant.
@dare2beslayed
Faux locs are a temporary style installed by twisting or braiding your real hair and then wrapping additional hair around the shaft of the braid or twist. Vibrant and youthful, faux locs are particularly great when they are colorful. Ultra Violet in faux locs for natural hair of medium length is a cool, fashionable example.
@nel_makeup_kriola
Designed to appear polished and put together, the chignon with asymmetrical twists is perfect for formal or dressier occasions. There are various different elements involved, which will only make you stand out in a crowd for all the right reasons.
@jackofallhair
Sometimes braided and twisted styles can take a little more time to complete, but we think this one is worth it. The bent twists are directed upward and forward to give way to the fun curly top. It’s the perfect choice if you prefer a hairstyle with a little extra height.
@badubeauty
The combination of simple flat twists and French braids make this short hairstyle a popular way to protect your delicate and damaged hair shafts while you are between more aggressive braided styles. It’s a cute updo that shows off your natural texture even when it’s braided.
@itsdonnalianne
“Come on baby, let’s do the TWIST!” We don’t know if Chubby Checker had a twisty hairstyle in mind when he wrote that signature song, but we do know that a fantastic twisted hairstyle like this one can become your signature look. Twist your twists around the head in a fabulous updo — we’re gonna twisty twisty twisty!
@genevieveanyiah
If you’re looking for an alternative to the traditional protective braid-based hairstyles, try winding your locks into small flat twists and leave them loose at the ends. The irregular curved pattern has a fantastic appeal and the flowing caramel curls ooze some serious feminine vibes.
@hairbyryane
Here we have a fun and expressive look that contains jumbo twists that fluently glide into quirky low buns. You can request that your hairdresser braids as many twists as you want; but, with this style, less can definitely be more.
@lipstickncurls
The diagonal side part and simple, no-nonsense lines of this twisted style work great for short natural hair. Two side twists are quick and easy to put in and take out if you don’t want to commit to a more complex protective hairdo. It’s a low-key and understated way to wear your hair when you are taking a break from products and processing.
@dillishmathews
A chin-length bob with peek-a-boo bangs is a simple option if you’re seeking something classic and timeless. The deep side part and layered twists add a bit of depth and eye-intrigue, and the sections that are directed behind one ear lend a cute asymmetrical touch. No need for unusual coloring or jewelry here; it’s just a good, self-sufficient protective hairdo.
@touchofheavenartistry
One of the prettiest and most feminine hairstyles for natural hair involves parting your hair horizontally, diagonally or down the middle and twisting it into two chunky twist braids. It’s youthful and easy to complete, which makes it a very appealing protective option for casual wear.
@thegowdygirls
The vibe of this exotic Nubian hairstyle is unique and glamorous. A stark center part and braids feed into a massive bun at the nape of the neck. It’s a dramatic cornrow style that is as protective as it is stunning.
@chimeedwards
The angled, braided sections of this side-parted updo are orderly and formal, creating a pretty hairstyle that can be worn to special events such as a wedding or holiday party. Your natural hair stays protected in braids and a low chignon bun. The result is a dainty, feminine hairdo you’ll love to wear for a while.
@christian_byshe
Not one, but two thick matching braids wrap around the head in the shape of a princess’ crown. Part it straight down the center and braid your hair safely, allowing it to rest and get healthier within a few short weeks.
@_whitneythestylist
Smooth out your natural hair and twist toward the nape of the neck. Secure with a low bun and you’re done! This hairstyle is youthful and vibrant, but it can be easily pulled off by a woman of any age.
@afroliciouswomen
Buns are nothing new, but by combining large and small braids you can make them feel fresh. Just ask your stylist to braid your hair into a ponytail, which will give you the versatility to wear it in a coil as well.
@kiakhameleon
One of the most common protective styles is flat twists because they resemble cornrows, but are easier and faster to do. If you are attempting to do an updo on your own and you want it to last for a couple of days, this is a must-try look.
@4adaniels
You can easily jazz up a short hairdo by mixing two different textures together. Cornrows in the front and twists in the back are a quick and easy way to add visual interest to a style without needing to use heat or hair accessories.
@hairstress_ae
The one problem about wearing individual braids is that they can be bulky and their weight could pull on your edges causing breakage. Instead of opting for box braids, consider asymmetrical cornrows that end into a side ponytail or a cute side bun. This will cut down on the heaviness.
@modernsalon
This loosely twisted updo is crisp, fashion-forward, and no-nonsense. It’s perfect for those naturalistas who want to indulge in some quick braiding for hair protection.
@themariaantoinette
Long, thick natural hair looks spectacular in this creative hairstyle that is quick to braid. The subtle burgundy highlighting draws attention to the pompadour-style top section. The long side pieces elongate the face and provide an extra feminine touch.
@_whitneythestylist
This is one of the most elegant and sophisticated 4c hair type styles and you can do it yourself! Team with statement earrings for a dazzling smart casual look.
@touchofheavensalon
This style is a perfect contender for a signature look. It’s simple and elegant with super soft bangs that are great for daily wear to work or school. It’s also totally appropriate for more formal functions. Pulling the flat twists forward adds additional protection for your rends and creates an option for trying different looks with the style. Try wrapping the ends into a bun or pinning them up in a knot. You can also experiment with pulling the twisted bangs from the face. Truly versatile.
@stylequeenbeauty
There are simple hairstyles to do yourself, and there are sophisticated looks to trust to a professional braider. This one requires precise parting and some experience in flat twisting, however, it’s not impossible to do at home.
@transformedbyo
How cute is this style?! We love the medium-sized box braids that add weight to the bob without being bulky and the side cornrows that add extra visual interest to what would otherwise be a simple style. The burgundy braids also elevate the style without being overwhelming and even in a still photo, you know that this is a style that is just full of movement and fun. Go ahead and imagine yourself walking in slow motion with this style and then go out and get it!
@trancascaroline
This is an easy hairstyle for everyday occasions. Create a feed-in twist braid from the side part. Gather the rest of your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck. The look is elegant and also undeniably chic.
@westafricanbaby
When it comes to cornrows and flat twists, the parting is as much a part of the style as the actual cornrows or flat twists themselves. This flat twisted updo is a great way of experimenting with creative yet simple parting and the end result is much more interesting to look at and wear.
@kiabia2121
These hairstyles will offer you some variety and a high level of protection for your locks. Natural hair can be styled in a creative way. Some of the best proofs are above. Feel free to get inspired!
All hair types are prone to hair breakage, and so are natural curls, especially type 4 coils, which is why it is essential to tuck them away in protective hairstyles. These hairstyles like braids, twists, locks, wigs, etc., aim first of all to save afro-textured hair from weather-related damage. Protective styling minimizes your hair’s tendency to frizz and tangle, keeping your afro healthy during the day and while sleeping. Also, they are a must for the swimming season.
@style_cupid
Not only do protective hairstyles preserve black hair from environmental factors like wind, humidity, and direct sunlight, but they also promote healthy hair growth. While being secured in braids, twists, or locs, your tresses get minimal physical manipulation and, thus, can continue growing without losing their natural oils and moisture.
While looks with free-flowing natural curls are made to capture attention, it is crucial to give your coils a break sometimes to keep them protected. One of the options you have is wigs, either synthetic or human hair. Or, you can opt for styles with synthetic strands wrapped around or braided in your natural locks. But for a more natural-looking and stylish appearance, we reckon you should try protective hairstyles without a weave, namely different types of braids and twists.
@foreignbeautyinc
If you like your hair away from your face, a good idea is to part your locks into equal sections and form spiraled knots. One condition to achieve the best results: constantly rewet your hair with a spray water bottle to make the curls more manageable for twisting or braiding them from the roots to the ends.
@_beautybysabrina
Braiding natural coils can be a fun way to embrace your personality while keeping them protected and healthy-looking. You can choose from a diversity of styles, from classic box braids and cornrows to goddess and Fulani braids. There is also room for twist braids, which can be crafted by taking two strands and twisting them tightly.
@hairbyntshunxeko
To craft such twists, the braider will take two strands and crisscross them from roots to the ends, continuing with the rest of your hair. You can adjust twist braids to your preferences, making them smaller or larger, depending on how much additional hair you will ask your braider to incorporate. Of course, smaller twists can be made with your own hair only.
@sarahsbraidph
For this classic braid style, your hair will be parted into small square-shaped sections and then each section will be plaited separately. Box braids look awesome when flowing freely or gathered into a ponytail. This hairstyle can last up to 8 weeks with a proper hair care routine, which involves washing them once a week and moisturizing with a hydrating spray.
@camilafreireoficial
They include separating hair into sections, typically from four to seven, depending on how thick you want your braids to be, and braiding them from front to back. Feed more hair into the braid as you go to make your cornrows more noticeable and voluminous.
@infinity_beautylounge
For crochet braids, your stylist will braid down your curls to the scalp. Then synthetic or natural hair extensions will be “crocheted” into these cornrowed sections of your natural hair. Now you can cut, shape, and style the hair as desired.
@jaquelineoliveirastudiohair
If you aim for something truly daring and sassy, experiment with different locs hairstyles. Started as coils, braids, or twists, locs can be formed out of your natural hair only or made with extensions, which are typically wrapped around your own braided or twisted hair.
@brianalatrease
Just like cornrows, flat twists are created close to the scalp, but with one signature difference – twisting instead of braiding. Cleanse your hair and scalp with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to lock in your natural hair’s moisture, and start twisting two strands, section by section.
@jhaelle.s
This is an effortless and affordable option even for beginners. All you need is a pretty scarf and a couple of minutes to work on your hairdo. You can start with any braided or twisted style and then line your scarf with the back of your head, wrapping it around your hair.
@healthyafrohair
While protective hairstyles are considered especially useful when the weather heats up, you can try them anytime, taking into account what is trending now. This year, celebrities and influencers widely embrace soft locs and boho hairstyles, complementing their charm and femininity. And, of course, leave yourself to different types of twists and jumbo braids if you are keen on a daring statement.
With the tight cornrows of different sizes, Fulani braids will help you create a traditional African tribal hairstyle for an ultimately unique appearance. You can spice the look with one or several braids made in the center of your head, perpendicularly to the rest of your braided sections. Leave a few braids to flow freely for a charming face-framing effect. These braids are usually embellished with beads.
@tayy.braids
Created as classic box braids, large knotless box braids look the same stylish and sassy with only one difference – they are more low-maintenance. As they imply sectioning your hair in bigger parts, you will have better access to the scalp, making it easier to wash the head and do the overall hair care routine.
@angiesbraids
Thinner and more accurate than faux locs, soft locs are a good alternative for those with thin hair types. They cause less tension in your natural curls while protecting them for up to six weeks, depending on their length and your diligence in hair care.
@softlocsbygen
Box braids give you the freedom to wear them any way you want, including experimenting with different lengths. But you’re in for a versatile solution – pick a golden middle, namely shoulder-length box braids. You won’t be able to gather them into a voluminous updo or a high pony but you can decorate them with beads, which is even more striking and alluring.
@felipe_lima_preto
Classic pop smoke braids feature eight braids, four from each side, sectioned equally with a clear middle part. But you are free to create a layering effect by breaking up the sections into two levels or mix them with different patterns and colors – all to express yourself.
@davidasparlour
These goddess braids are the epitome of femininity and attraction, all due to the charming curls peeking among the braids. You can wear them anywhere, leaving a long-lasting impression with your chic appearance. They also work great for those aiming to add some movement and dimension to their braided strands.
@amazonassbraids
To create this two-strand twist hairstyle, use water wave extensions to braid them into your natural hair. While shoulder-length passion twists look very bouncy and voluminous, they are quite lightweight compared to other types of twists and, thus, don’t weigh down the coils.
@hawlee_creation
This ‘chic with no fuss’ style can effortlessly emphasize your unique style and personality. To create butterfly locs, the braider will plait your hair, previously parting it in box-shaped sections, creating traditional box braids. Then they will crochet hair extensions, wrapping them around your braids, pulling some pieces of the hair to create the “butterfly” effect, and sealing the ends. The key to the beauty of these locs is in their messiness and ‘undone’ look.
@medj_hairstylist
Just as box braids, Senegalese twists are created in square-shaped sections, but instead of braiding three strands, they are made by wrapping two locks around each other. The result is rope-like twists that can be parted in the middle or pulled in a ponytail or a large bun.
@glam_byamber_
Both boho twists and boho braids are popular now, providing effortless chic flattering for ladies of any age. Apart from braided or twisted strands, they feature lots of loose curls added towards the ends or in the mids.
@zer0stylist
Lack of time is one of the main things that stops women from crafting hairdos, but protective hairstyles actually provide a quick and effortless way to achieve a gorgeous look. Here are some of the stunning styles you can choose from:
@lovelee_andco
Not only are braids and twists stylish and easy to maintain, but they also allow you to enjoy summer while avoiding the heat damaging your natural locks. But we recommend picking something more lightweight, such as Senegalese twists, micro braids, passion twists, cornrows, or twisted/braided buns. Whatever vacation hairstyle you choose, moisturize it with appropriate products, such as hydration mist sprays, leave-in conditioners, and hair oils.
@mk.lille
Apart from protecting your curls during the daytime, some hairstyles can keep your locks secured overnight, preventing them from losing their natural moisture. Depending on your hair’s length and density, you can create one of the following looks, all preventing hair breakage when worn to bed:
Additionally, you can wear a bonnet or silk scarf on top.
@kekereandco
Such protective hairstyles as faux locs or feed-in braids work great on any hair length, including short locks. They put less tension on shorter curls, not weighting them down, and allow you to grow the natural hair effortlessly. Another option is finger coils. Although, technically, they are not a protective style because your ends are exposed, finger coils last and require no additional manipulation, meaning less hair breakage.
@dallas_hair_studio
You definitely can create a protective hairstyle with your locs, but consider your dreads to be fully developed, not starter, as it may damage them while they are still forming. Long-length dreadlocks can be braided, tied into a high ponytail, or put in a bun. You can enjoy the achieved hairdo for up to eight weeks without damaging your locs, but only if you moisturize them regularly.
@natural_hair_and_more
On the flip side of the coin is the stress the wrongly adjusted or maintained protective hairstyle can put you and your hair in. If your hairdo is too tight or heavy, or there is improper hair care, lack of washing, or no recovery time in between involved, your protective style will do more harm than good. To deal with that, follow these quick and easy recommendations:
Whatever protective hairstyle you choose, include these tips in your hair care routine to enjoy the result for as long as you want. Put some effort into picking whatever resonates with your personal style and master the maintenance of your desired look to finally make a statement everyone notices.
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