Protective Hairstyles For Natural Hair

51 Protective Hairstyles For Natural Hair


Sahiba Tandon

Updated At  16 Jul 24


Do you want to protect your natural hair from everyday manipulation? Then you are in the right place. Following are the best protective hairstyles for natural hair that any hair type can wear! 

  

51 Best Protective Hairstyles For Natural Hair

  

Bantu-knots

INSTAGRAM

1. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are not only chic but also easy to do and maintain. They can transform your look while being a beautiful protective hairdo that looks modern while being a traditional hairstyle of Africa!


Stitch-Braids

INSTAGRAM

2. Stitch Braids

Stitch braids are among the top protective hairstyles for natural hair that are as stunning as they are neat. They are called stitch braids because they are made very close to the scalp and project an image of stitches!

Butterfly-Locs

INSTAGRAM

3. Butterfly Locs

The butterfly loc hair uses pre-looped hair that resembles butterfly wings! It is fair to say they provide a unique vibe with their textured effect.  


Karoba-braids

INSTAGRAM


4. Karoba Braids

Want to maintain curl definition for your hair? Why not try a beautiful type of cornrow braid, i.e., Karoba braids? Experiment a bit with this edgy style that incorporates a neat pattern!

Halo-braids

INSTAGRAM

5. Halo Braid

With most of the tresses tucked away with pins, you might project a straight hair image with the halo braid, so if you are looking for a protective hairstyle that looks sleek, this is the hairdo for you!


Bohemian-Braids

INSTAGRAM

6. Bohemian Braids

A stunning combination of box braids and waves, these braids, just like their name, give you a boho-chic appearance. The extensions used provide a beautiful texture and are low-maintenance as well.

Flat Twist+Braid

INSTAGRAM

7. Flat Twist+Braid 

Why go with only one protective hairstyle when you can obtain a versatile look by combining two? Yes, by flat twisting some of the hair while braiding the rest, you can go for a creative take on your hair!


Mini-Twists

INSTAGRAM

8. Mini Twists

Mini sections of hair are braided together for this hairdo on your locs, which results in tightly textured tresses!

Nick Justin Kersten, an experienced hair stylist and founder of Nick Hair Studio, recommends how to make tight curls for hairstyles such as mini twists:

“To create this beautiful hair, it is important to use moisturizing products.”

Island-twists

INSTAGRAM

9. Island Twists

Island twists add a relaxed, bohemian twist by following a rope-like design. Both short and long hairstyles can carry this style flawlessly! 


Stitched-Cornrows-With Fluffy-Braids

INSTAGRAM

10. Stitched-Cornrows With Fluffy-Braids 

Cornrows alone can make your hair look sleek but if you want to project a more voluminous image, then consider adding fluffy braids as well to the look for texture and volume.

Cornrows

INSTAGRAM

11. Cornrows

Cornrows is a classic protective hairstyle for both men and women. The hair is braided very closely to the scalp and forms a “row”, that's how they got their name!


Goddess Braids

INSTAGRAM

12. Goddess Braids


Goddess braids can be termed larger cornrows. The tresses flow in a regal pattern in this look, which gives it a dramatic appearance! Following, Geneva Fowler, an experienced Los Angeles-based hairstylist, recommends how to make the installation of Goddess braids easier:

"Following your conditioning treatment, I recommend blow-drying your hair straight to make installing the goddess braids easier for your braider.”

Senegalese-twists

INSTAGRAM

13. Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists are low-maintenance, long-lasting, and a super versatile option that are similar to two-strand twists but offer more volume and last longer.


Crochet-hair

INSTAGRAM

14. Crochet Hair

There are many types of crochet hair—straight, curly, or wavy—that you can choose to serve as your next protective hairdo! Many choices can be made as per your preference, hair type, and texture.

Knotless-twists-With-boho-Curls

INSTAGRAM


15. Knotless Twists With Boho Curls

If you want to do something unique, then try combining these tight twist styles with a modern curl hairstyle, i.e., the boho curls. This can be among the best protective hairstyles for long hair, as it shows creativity!


Boho-knotless-Braids

INSTAGRAM

16. Boho Knotless Braids

There are many benefits to this stylish style; it frees you from feeling discomfort on your scalp, adds to hair growth, and, of course, protects your hair!

Sew-In-Extentions

INSTAGRAM


17. Sew-In Extensions

Sew-in extensions are a way to add extra length and volume to any hair type. This style features the use of threads and wefts (strips) on natural hair. 

Jamika Wilson, a celebrity hairstylist, considers extensions a useful addition to hair! She quotes:

"Using extensions allows women to be creative, experiment with lengths, and change any look as they choose... They're a great hair accessory.”


Boho-Braids

INSTAGRAM

18. Boho Braids

Looking for the latest in-trend protective hairstyles for natural hair? Try boho braids. These types of braids will look amazing on most hair types, whether long or short.

Invisible-locs

INSTAGRAM

19. Invisible Locs

Invisible locs are secured tightly and meticulously crafted. This makes them ideal for a protective hairstyle that gives a refined look too.


Chucky-twists

INSTAGRAM

20. Jumbo Twists

Jumbo twists, like their name suggests, are big and chunky. They are bold and often use large extensions as well for volume. The best thing about them? They take a lot less time than other twists.

Kinky-twists

INSTAGRAM

21. Kinky Twists

Kinky twists are classy and chic at the same time! This style is an iconic choice, especially curly or coily, as it shows your natural hair without doing much work!


Havana-locs

INSTAGRAM

22. Havana Locs

Havana locs are thick dreadlocks that are most commonly created with marley hair. Even though they are a type of dreadlock, they have a softer image and texture than most!

Adachi Sanders, founder of Ankh Hair Co., quotes: 

"Havana twists are natural fiber twist extensions worn as a protective natural hair style.”

Fulani-bob

INSTAGRAM

23. Fulani Bob

A bob made with Fulani braids will give a nice twist to the classic hairstyle that will be easier to care for in day-to-day life while safeguarding your hair from environmental factors!!

Jumbo-braids

INSTAGRAM

24. Juicy Twists

Do you know what can make protective hairstyles for natural hair better? Low manipulation of the hair! This feature can be seen when you go with big, juicy twists like these on your hair!

Tuck-and-roll

INSTAGRAM

24. Tuck and Roll

This is a different type of updo that can be secured in as many ways as you please. This hairdo is especially popular to be worn at formal events because of its timeless appeal!

Jumbo-knotless-With-Curly-Ends

INSTAGRAM

25. Jumbo Knotless With Curly Ends

Protective hairstyles for long hair can be a great canvas to try different techniques! Just like we see here, the combination of curly ends with knotless braids adds a modern touch that's easy to maintain.

Front-Braids

INSTAGRAM

26. Front Braids

Haven't got time to do a twist, braid out, or get extensions? Turn towards the front braids! They can be made with just the front of your tresses and leave the rest of the hair as is for a dual look!

Faux-locs

INSTAGRAM

27. Faux Locs

Faux locs are a nice option for gals who want to try something unique every now and then. Since you'll be using faux hair, your real hair will be protected as well!

Baby-twists

INSTAGRAM

28. Baby Twists

Baby twists, similar to micro twists, are created using small sections of hair on different strands. They are not only protective but can be carried for days and days!

Turban-headwrap

 

29. Turban Headwrap Style

The accessory addition of a turban head wrap can make your entire outfit shine! There are many ways to style this look according to your mood and hair length!

Braid-Out

INSTAGRAM

30.  Braid-Out

An effortlessly chic and rather easy braid-out is a simpler hairstyle that gives a wave-like look to any hair type. This protective look doesn't require much or any extensions.

Twist-Out

INSTAGRAM

31. Twist-Out 

Turn to the classic twist-out for a carefree and comfortable hairstyle option. They can be made easily by twisting sections of your damp hair!

'90s-Inspired-Passion-Twist

 


32. ‘90s-Inspired Passion Twist

Get inspiration from the 1990s and make Chucky passion twists with different sections that make a dramatic and bold statement!

Box-braids-Ponytail

 

 


33. Box Braids Ponytail

These neat square-section braids look ultra modern so why not switch things up and go for a stylish ponytail with the classic box braids?

Headband Look

 


34. Headband Look

You might have seen many time-consuming protective hairstyles for curly hair, but did you try the easy way of using a silk headband? Not only does this style save you lots of time but it also adds a fun vibe to the attire as well!

Finger-Coils

 

 

35. Finger Coils

Finger coils, just like their name suggests, can be created with just your fingers. This technique is a classic and gives you springy curls that are especially useful when you are looking for short protective hairstyles.

Short Afro

 

36. Short-Afro

For easy protective hairstyles for short hair, go put on the most easiest and classic look of all—the short afro! With easy maintenance and versatility, this can be the ideal look for you!

Braided-beads-Style_

 

 

37. Braided Beads Style

Hair-protective hairstyles for both curly, wavy, or even striaght hair can be enhanced with the use of some beautiful hair beads! 

Marley-Twists

 

 

38. Marley Twist

Marley Twists, inspired by Bob Marley, are big and dramatic! Try adding a part for this style; it will help add volume and depth to your look!

14_20240706_073329_0013

 


38. Fulani Braids

Fulani braids as protective hairstyles for curly hair are amazing, as they will make a beautiful statement look without even requiring you to spend time creating them!

Soft-locs

 

 

39. Soft Locs

For an easier and less intense loc style, try these soft locs! They are not as tight and even take less time than other popular protective hairstyles.

space-buns

 


40. Space Buns

These buns are super cute and give off a youthful look! For perfect space buns, your hair would be sectioned equally to each side but you can always go with a off-center look as well for an edgier look!
 

Twists-With-Braids_

 

41. Twists With Braids

When you truly want a protective hairstyle that can safeguard your hair while making you look on point, what would be better than combining two of the most popular styles, twists and braids?

Large-Passion-twists

 

42. Large Passion Twists

These twists can be thicker than their counterparts. This is what differentiates them and they are even called chunky twists because they project a voluminous image!

Bohemian-Knotless-Braids

 


43. Bohemian Knotless Braids

Bohemian knotless braids combine two of the most popular braid styles, boho and knotless. The wavy ends that are braided loosely help reduce tension in the hair as well as promote hair growth.

 

Gypsy-braids

 

44. Gypsy Braids

Gypsy braids are a beautiful mix of loose braids and curls! They create an eclectic look and are a go-to that you can see girls carrying to concerts and festivals.

 

Micro-Braids

 

45. Micro Braids

Micro-braids, like their name suggests, are tiny. They can be a sleek option for those who are bored with voluminous big locs and twisty hairdos. A protective and long-lasting braid type that can suit any hair type!

Pineapple-updo

 

46. Pineapple Updo

We have seen many twists and braids styled as protective hairstyles, right? But a pineapple updo is something different that doesn't take much time, adds texture, and is low-maintenance!

Distressed-locs

INSTAGRAM

47. Distressed Locs

Distressed locs have a rugged finish, which makes them unique. A durable locs hairstyle that provides a bohemian, carefree aesthetic.

Side-bangs-With-Braids

 

48. Side Bangs With Braids

Do you know how you can turn a protective hairstyle into a trendy one? By simply adding some side bang! These will add instant definition!

Short-Passion-Twists

 

 

49. Short Passion Twists

For a playful and chic image, get creative with short passion twists. Wavy extensions are used for this protective style, which ends up creating a soft and spiral effect on the hair!

Spring-twist

 


50. Spring Twist

Looking for a lightweight, protective hairdo? Try spring twists! These are tightly coiled, bouncy extensions that add a phenomenal addition to any attire.

Taper-cut

 


51. Taper Cut

If you want inspiration for protective hairstyles for short hair, the ideal short hairdo would be the taper cut! It is not only easy to create but to carry as well.



RECOMMENDED STORIES


YOU MAY LIKE