Welcome to the ultimate guide to protective hairstyles for curly hair! If you have naturally curly hair, you know how challenging it can be to maintain its health and vitality. To help keep your curls in tip-top shape, protective hairstyles are a great option. Protective hairstyles are styles that keep your hair ends tucked away and protected from damage, such as braids, twists, buns, and knots. 

 In this guide, we will provide you with comprehensive information on protective hairstyles for curly hair, including tips, techniques, and examples. Get ready to discover the best protective hairstyles that will help you keep your curly hair looking fabulous!

 protective hairstyles for curly hair

1. Box braids
2. Bantu knots
3. Twists
4. Cornrows
5. Braided buns 
6. Halo braids
7. Crochet braids
8. High puff

ALSO READ:

• Haircare Tips for Curly Hair
• How to create a healthy natural hair routine

1. Box braids 

If you’re looking for a protective hairstyle for your curly hair, box braids could be a great option for you! This popular style involves braiding your hair with synthetic hair extensions, creating a long-lasting protective style. Box braids come in various sizes and lengths, you can even add beads or cuffs and colors to customize your box braids to your liking for a touch of personality.

By dividing the hair into small sections and braiding each section from the root to the tip, creating a neat and uniform look. Plus, they provide excellent protection for your natural hair by keeping it tucked away and shielded from environmental factors that can cause damage.

How to properly prepare the hair for box braids

• – Wash and condition your hair before creating box braids, and section it into small sections using a comb or your fingers.
• – Use either synthetic or natural hair extensions to braid each section of hair.
• – Seal the ends of each braid with hot water or a lighter to prevent unraveling.
• – Maintain your box braids by wrapping your hair at night with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet (check on amazon) to prevent tangling and frizz, and avoiding heavy styling products that can weigh down your hair and cause damage.
• – To remove your box braids, carefully unravel them, starting from the bottom and working your way up.

 Box braids provide a convenient and stylish way to protect your curly hair while allowing you to experiment with different styles and lengths.

2. Bantu knots: 

The second hairstyle on our guide to protective hairstyles for curly hair is the Bantu knots. This style is achieved by sectioning the hair and twisting each section into a knot, which is then secured to the scalp with a hairpin or elastic band. Bantu knots can be styled in various sizes and patterns to create different looks that can also give you gorgeous curls when you take them out.

They offer excellent protection for curly hair by keeping the ends tucked away and preventing breakage. Bantu knots are also a versatile style that can be worn for a few days or a few weeks depending on your preference.

How to properly prepare the hair for Bantu knots

• – Wash and condition your hair
• – Section your hair into small sections using a comb or your fingers
• – Apply a styling product such as a leave-in conditioner (check on amazon) or styling cream to each section of hair
• – Twist each section of hair tightly and wrap it around itself to create a small bun
• – Use a bobby pin or hair tie to secure the bun in place
• – Cover your head with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet and allow your hair to dry completely

if you prefer curls

• – Gently unravel each knot and separate the curls with your fingers
• – Use a pick or wide-tooth comb to fluff out the curls and create more volume
• – Wrap your hair at night with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to prevent tangling and frizz
• – Avoid using heavy styling products that can weigh down your hair and cause damage.

3. Twists

“Twists” refer to a popular protective hairstyle for curly hair that involves creating small, two-strand twists in the hair. This style is considered a protective hairstyle because it helps to protect the hair from damage that can be caused by over-styling, heat, or exposure to harsh elements. They are easy to do, and you can style them in various ways, including buns and updos.

How to properly prepare the hair for twists, including washing, conditioning, and detangling.

Properly preparing your hair for twists is crucial for achieving a neat and long-lasting style.

 Here are some steps you can follow:

 Start with clean hair: It is important to start with clean hair, so begin by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo(check on amazon) .This will help to remove any product buildup or dirt that may be in your hair. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Condition your hair: After washing your hair, use a good quality conditioner to help detangle and moisturize your hair. Apply the conditioner from the roots to the ends of your hair and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out.

Detangle your hair: After rinsing out the conditioner, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to remove any tangles in your hair. Start from the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots to avoid pulling or damaging your hair.

Apply a leave-in conditioner: After detangling your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair to provide additional moisture and help keep your hair soft and manageable.

 Let your hair air dry: Allow your hair to air dry before starting to twist your hair. If you are in a rush, you can use a diffuser to dry your hair in a low-heat setting.

Following these steps will help to prepare your hair for twists and ensure that your hair is clean, moisturized, and tangle-free. This will help to make the twisting process easier and ensure that your twists last longer

There are other times of twists to explore

Different types of twists and how to create them.

There are different types of twists that you can create depending on your hair type and the look you are trying to achieve.

Here are three popular types of twists:1

1. Two-strand twists

Two-strand twists are a simple and easy-to-create style that involves twisting two sections of hair together.

 Here are the steps to create two-strand twists:

•    Part your hair into small sections, depending on the size of the twists you want.
•    Apply a styling product, such as a twisting cream or gel, to each section to help set the twist.
•    Divide each section into two strands.
•    Twist each strand around the other, starting from the roots and twisting all the way down to the ends.
•   Secure the ends of the twists with a small elastic band or a hair clip.

2. Flat twists

 Flat twists are a versatile style that can be worn in a variety of ways, including as a protective style or as a base for other styles like buns or updos.

 Here’s how to create flat twists:

•    Part your hair into small sections and apply a styling product (check on amazon) to each section.
•     Take a small section of hair and divide it into two parts.
•     Cross the right section over the left section and then take a small amount of hair from the right side and add it to the left section.
•    Repeat step c on the other side, crossing the left section over the right and adding hair from the left side to the right section.
•    Continue crossing and adding hair until you reach the end of the section.
•     Secure the end of the twist with a small elastic band or a hair clip

3. Senegalese twists:

Senegalese twists are a popular protective style that involves using hair extensions to create long and sleek twists.

 Here’s how to create Senegalese twists:

•    Wash and condition your hair, and let it air dry.
•     Part your hair into small sections and apply a styling product to each section.
•    Take a section of hair extension and fold it in half to create a loop.
•     Place the loop at the root of your hair and begin twisting the extension and your natural hair together.
•     Continue twisting the hair until you reach the end of the extension.
•    Seal the end of the twist with hot water or a hair dryer.
•     Repeat the steps until all sections of hair are twisted.

These are just a few examples of the types of twists you can create. There are many other variations and styles you can experiment with to find the one that works best for your hair type and desired look.

How to use styling products to help set the twists and prevent frizz.

Using the right styling products is essential for creating long-lasting twists and preventing frizz.

 Here are some tips for using styling products to set your twists and keep them looking their best:

1. Use a leave-in conditioner

A leave-in conditioner can help to moisturize your hair and make it more manageable, which will make it easier to create and set your twists. Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair after washing and conditioning it, and before you begin twisting your hair.

2. Use a twisting cream or gel: 

A twisting cream or gel can help to set your twists and prevent frizz. Apply a small amount of twisting cream or gel to each section of hair before you begin twisting it. Be sure to work the product through your hair thoroughly to ensure that it is evenly distributed.

3. Use hair oil:

 Hair oil can help to seal in moisture and prevent frizz. Apply a small amount of hair oil to your hair after you have twisted it to help keep it looking smooth and shiny. Be sure to use a lightweight oil that won’t weigh your hair down or make it look greasy.

4. Set your twists with heat

Setting your twists with heat can help to make them last longer and prevent frizz. After you have twisted your hair, use a hooded dryer or a diffuser attachment (check on amazon)on a hair dryer (check on amazon)to dry your hair in a low heat setting. Be sure to use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage to your hair.

5. Wrap your hair at night

 To keep your twists looking neat and prevent frizz, wrap your hair at night. Use a silk or satin scarf to wrap your hair before going to bed. This will help to keep your twists in place and prevent them from rubbing against your pillow and causing frizz.

By using the right styling products and techniques, you can create long-lasting twists and keep your hair looking smooth and frizz-free.

How to maintain the twists, including how often to re-twist and how to properly moisturize the hair.

Maintaining your twists is essential for keeping them looking neat and healthy.

Here are some tips for maintaining your twists:

1. Re-twist your hair regularly

Depending on your hair texture and the size of your twists, you may need to re-twist your hair every 1-2 weeks. Re-twisting your hair will help to keep your twists looking neat and prevent them from unraveling. To re-twist your hair, simply apply a styling product to each section and twist it again, following the same steps you used when you first created your twists.

2. Moisturize your hair regularly

 Moisturizing your hair is essential for keeping it healthy and preventing breakage. Use a water-based moisturizer or a leave-in conditioner to hydrate your hair and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle. Apply the moisturizer to your hair and scalp daily, focusing on the ends of your twists where your hair is most prone to dryness.

3. Seal in moisture with oil

 After moisturizing your hair, use a natural oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil to seal in the moisture. Apply a small amount of oil to your fingertips and massage it into the ends of your twists. This will help to keep your hair hydrated and prevent it from becoming frizzy.

4. Protect your hair at night

 Protecting your hair at night is essential for preventing frizz and maintaining your twists. Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf before going to bed to prevent it from rubbing against your pillow and causing frizz. You can also wear a satin bonnet or use a satin pillowcase to protect your hair while you sleep.

5. Avoid over-manipulating your hair

 Over-manipulating your hair can cause damage and breakage. Avoid constantly touching and playing with your twists, and try not to style them too frequently. This will help to keep your hair healthy and prevent your twists from becoming frizzy and unraveled.

How to take down the twists and style the hair after the twists are removed.

Taking down your twists can be a bit time-consuming, but with the right tools and techniques, you can remove them without causing damage to your hair. 

Here are some steps to follow when taking down your twists:

1. Start by sectioning your hair

Divide your hair into sections using hair clips or hair ties. This will make it easier to remove the twists without causing tangles.

2. Apply oil to your hair

 Before you start taking down your twists, apply oil to your hair to help detangle and soften it. Use a natural oil like coconut oil or olive oil (check on amazon)and work it into your hair with your fingertips.

3. Carefully unravel the twists

Start at the end of a twist and gently unravel it, working your way up toward the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to help detangle your hair as you remove the twists. Be gentle and avoid pulling or tugging on your hair.

4. Wash and condition your hair

 Once you have removed all of the twists, wash and condition your hair to remove any product buildup and restore moisture. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.

5. Style your hair

 After washing and conditioning your hair, you can style it in a variety of ways. You can wear your hair in a twist-out style, which involves separating your hair into smaller sections and fluffing them out to create a voluminous, curly look. You can also wear your hair in a protective style, such as braids or a bun, to give your hair a break from styling.

Remember to continue to moisturize and protect your hair after removing the twists to keep it healthy and prevent breakage. 

4. Cornrows

Cornrows are a popular protective hairstyle that can help to keep curly hair healthy and free from damage.

Here is a guide to creating and maintaining cornrows:

Start with clean, detangled hair: Wash and condition your hair as normal, and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle it. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to moisturize your hair and prevent breakage.

Part your hair: Use the end of a rat-tail comb to create straight parts in your hair. The size of the sections will depend on how thick or thin you want your cornrows to be.

Create your first cornrow: Starting at the front of your head, divide a small section of hair into three sections. Begin braiding the hair, taking small sections of hair from the sides and adding them in as you braid. Continue braiding until you reach the end of your hair, and secure the braid with a hair tie or clip.

Continue braiding: Move on to the next section of hair and repeat the process until all of your hair has been braided.

Maintain your cornrows: To maintain your cornrows, you can re-braid any loose or frizzy sections as needed. Use a small amount of styling product to smooth down any flyaways or frizz.

Protect your hair at night: Wear a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to protect your cornrows while you sleep. This will help to prevent frizz and maintain the style for longer.

Take down your cornrows carefully: To take down your cornrows, gently unravel the braids starting at the ends and working your way up. Use a wide-tooth comb to help detangle any knots or tangles.

Minimizes manipulation: Cornrows require very little manipulation once they are in place, which can help to prevent breakage and damage to curly hair. This can be especially beneficial for those with fragile or delicate hair.

Protects the ends: Cornrows help to keep the ends of the hair tucked away and protected from friction and damage caused by clothing and other external factors.

Maintains moisture: Since cornrows help to minimize manipulation and prevent the hair from being exposed to the elements, they

also help to protect curly hair from damage caused by styling tools and environmental factors, such as sun exposure and wind.

5. Braided buns

Braided buns are a versatile protective hairstyle that can be styled in many different ways to suit your personal taste and hair type. They are easy to create and maintain and offer a stylish way to keep your hair out of your face while protecting it from damage caused by environmental factors.

To create braided buns, you will need to start with clean, detangled hair. Begin by washing and conditioning your hair, then use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle it. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to moisturize your hair and prevent breakage.

Next, part your hair into one or two sections, depending on how many braids you want to create. Use a rat-tail comb to create straight parts that are evenly spaced and sized. Once you have your parts, begin braiding your hair tightly using your preferred braiding technique. You can choose from different types of braids such as French, Dutch, or fishtail.

After braiding, take your braids and twist or wrap them into a bun shape. You can use bobby pins or hair ties to secure the bun in place. Apply a small amount of styling product to smooth down any flyaways or frizz and add hair accessories such as flowers or pins for a more decorative look.

To maintain your braided buns, be sure to protect your hair while sleeping by wearing a satin or silk scarf or bonnet. This will prevent frizz and maintain the style for longer. Avoid leaving your braided buns in too long as it can cause tension on your scalp leading to hair loss and breakage. A good rule of thumb is to keep them in for no more than 2-3 weeks at a time.

When it’s time to take down your braided buns, be gentle and careful when unraveling the braids to avoid causing damage to your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle any knots or tangles.

6. Halo braids

Halo braids are a beautiful and protective hairstyle that can be created on curly hair. They offer a simple yet elegant way to keep your hair off your face while protecting it from damage caused by environmental factors.

To create halo braids, start by washing and conditioning your hair, and then detangling it using a wide-tooth comb. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to moisturize your hair and prevent breakage.

Next, create a part down the center of your head, separating your hair into two sections. Begin braiding one section of your hair from the front of your head towards the back, securing the braid at the end with a small hair elastic. Repeat this process with the other section of hair.

Once both sections of hair are braided, take one braid and wrap it around the top of your head like a halo, securing it in place with bobby pins. Repeat with the other braid, tucking the end of the braid under the other braid to create a seamless look.

Apply a small amount of styling product to smooth down any flyaways or frizz and add hair accessories such as flowers or pins for a more decorative look.

To maintain your halo braids, be sure to protect your hair while sleeping by wearing a satin or silk scarf or bonnet. This will prevent frizz and maintain the style for longer. Avoid leaving your halo braids in for too long as it can cause tension on your scalp leading to hair loss and breakage. A good rule of thumb is to keep them in for no more than 2-3 weeks at a time.

When it’s time to take down your halo braids, be gentle and careful when unraveling the braids to avoid causing damage to your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle any knots or tangles.

7. Crochet braids

Crochet braids are a protective hairstyle that involves attaching extensions to your natural hair using a crochet needle. This hairstyle is ideal for curly hair as it allows for easy maintenance, protects your natural hair from damage, and offers a variety of styling options.

To create crochet braids, you will need to first wash and condition your hair. Once your hair is dry, create cornrows using your natural hair as a base. The size and pattern of the cornrows will depend on the style you want to achieve.

Once your cornrows are complete, it’s time to attach the extensions. Take a crochet needle and insert it under the first cornrow. Next, attach the extension hair to the crochet needle, and pull it through the cornrow, creating a loop. Then, take the loose ends of the extension hair and pull them through the loop, securing them in place.

Continue this process, working your way from the front to the back of your head until all of the cornrows are covered with extension hair. Once complete, you can style your crochet braids in various ways, including updos, buns, or letting them hang loose.

To maintain your crochet braids, be sure to wrap your hair at night with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to prevent tangling and frizz. You should also avoid using heavy styling products as they can weigh down your hair and cause damage to your natural hair.

When it’s time to remove your crochet braids, be sure to carefully unravel them, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Be gentle and avoid pulling on your hair to prevent damage.

8.  High puff

The high puff is a protective hairstyle for curly hair that is easy to achieve and offers a stylish look. This hairstyle involves pulling your natural hair up into a ponytail on the top of your head and fluffing it out to create a voluminous puff.

To create a high puff, start by moisturizing your hair with water or a leave-in conditioner. Then, brush your hair up into a high ponytail using a brush or your fingers. Use a hair tie to secure the ponytail in place at the crown of your head.

Next, take a hair pick or comb and gently tease your hair around the hair tie to create volume. Fluff your hair out to create the desired puff shape, using bobby pins to secure any loose strands in place.

For added flair, you can also add accessories such as headbands, scarves, or hair jewelry to your high puff.

To maintain your high puff, you should avoid using heavy styling products that can weigh down your hair and cause damage. It’s also important to wrap your hair at night with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to prevent tangling and frizz.

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