Protective hairstyles are used to protect hair from shedding, tangling and manipulation. There are many types of protective styles such as braids, weaves and even buns. While putting one’s hair in a protective hairstyle they are allowing it to take control of itself and grow naturally. When it comes down to braids, twist or sew in weaves, it is important to remember that the whole point is to “protect” the hair follicles. With that being said, braids should never be too tight or cause too much stress on the hairline. This can lead to hair bumps which will result in hair loss.
Protective styles are a college girl’s best friend! Around campus one will see many girls walking around with a protective style. Protective styles are versatile and serve many purposes. College itself is stressful and tedious. Who wants to worry about their hair on top of classes, studying, and exams? Protective styles gives the average college girl a break from doing her hair every morning. Below you will find some popular protective styles found on campus!
The Wonderful World of Weave?!
Who needs the manipulation of your own hair when you can manipulate someone else’s? From sew-ins to wigs to quick weaves, there’s nothing like giving your real hair a break while still rocking gorgeous locks. This is as protective as it gets so no need to fret! Read more for our favorite tips, do’s and don’ts.
DO’S
BLEND BLEND BLEND!
Ladies the point of weave is to make it look like it’s grown out of your head. The goal is to match your natural hair texture with the weave texture.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR WEAVE
Quality weave can last up to two years. With that being said, it is important to take care of your weave like it’s your natural hair. This includes washing, conditioning, and daily maintenance.
GO TO A PROFESSIONAL
For the best results, your best bet is to go to a stylist who knows exactly what they’re doing.
DON’TS
LET YOUR TRACKS SHOW
Nothing is worse than a detectable weave. Leave an appropriate amount of your hair out so the tracks of the weave can be easily covered.
“FRY” YOUR WEAVE
Although it isn’t your real hair, it isn’t good to put heat on it daily. Just like our real hair, weave can thin out break off too.
PUT YOUR WEAVE IN AS SOON AS YOU RECEIVE IT
Because demand for weave is so high, you never know where it is coming from. Companies may not wash or detect hair thoroughly. It is best to take the initiative and cleanse the hair before installing it into your head.
Hairstyle How to’s: Natural Hair Edition:
The twist out
The twist out hairstyle is the end result of two strand twists.
Step 1. Section your hair in 4-8 sections
Step 2. Take one section and moisturize it with a dime size of Cantu leave in conditioner
Step 3. With that same section rub a drop of castor oil
Step 4. Moisturize the section with your choice of curl cream
Step 5. Split the section into two even sections and twists them from root to ends
Step 6. Repeat steps 1-5 with the other sections
Step 7. Unravel twists and style to desired look after about 7 hours
The “Wash & Go”
The Wash & Go is as simple as its name.
Step 1. Use your regular wash and condition routine
Step 2: Wrap hair in 100% cotton t shirt
Step 3. Moisturize hair with your choice leave in conditioner
Step 4. Coat hair strands in your choice curling cream or gel
Step 5. Diffuse hair or let it air dry
The High Puff (FINEapple)
Step 1: Start with a fresh or old twist out
Step 2: Pick out roots with a comb to make hair appear bigger
Step 2: Cut an old stocking to use as a tie, then cut the tie in half
Step 3: Lay your hair upward with your choice of gel
Step 4: tie the tie around your forehead and begin to push it upward to your desired puff
Natural Hair is very time consuming and it may take a bit of practice to achieve one’s desired hairstyle. Don’t get discouraged and remember, YouTube is your best friend for finding hair tutorials! Happy Styling!