Best Hairstyles To Protect Hair
As a hairstylist with over 10 years of experience, I have encountered countless clients who struggle with damaged and unhealthy hair. From heat styling to chemical treatments, our hair goes through a lot on a daily basis. However, there are ways to protect and maintain the health of our hair, and one of the most effective ways is by choosing the right hairstyles. In this article, I will share with you some of the best hairstyles to protect your hair, along with tips, trends, and tutorials to help you achieve them.
Why Choose Hairstyles That Protect Hair?
Before we dive into the best hairstyles, let’s understand why it is important to choose hairstyles that protect our hair. Our hair is delicate and can easily get damaged from excessive heat, friction, and tension. By opting for hairstyles that minimize these factors, we can prevent breakage, split ends, and overall damage. Additionally, protective hairstyles can help retain moisture, reduce tangling, and promote hair growth.
Benefits of Protective Hairstyles:
- Prevent breakage and split ends
- Reduce heat damage
- Minimize friction and tension
- Retain moisture
- Reduce tangling
- Promote hair growth
Best Hairstyles To Protect Hair
1. Buns and Updos
Buns and updos are classic hairstyles that not only look elegant but also protect your hair. By gathering your hair into a bun or an updo, you minimize its exposure to environmental factors and reduce friction. These hairstyles are versatile and can be customized to suit any occasion, whether it’s a formal event or a casual day out.
To achieve a bun or an updo, start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, gather your hair into a ponytail and twist it around its base, securing it with bobby pins. You can also experiment with different variations such as messy buns or braided updos to add some flair to your look.
2. Braids
Braids are not only trendy but also excellent for protecting your hair. They help in reducing friction and tension, preventing breakage and tangling. Braids come in various styles, such as French braids, Dutch braids, fishtail braids, and more. You can choose the style that suits your hair length and personal preference.
To create a simple braid, divide your hair into three equal sections. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the middle section. Repeat this process until you reach the end of your hair and secure it with a hairband. You can also add accessories or combine multiple braids for a more intricate look.
3. Ponytails
Ponytails are a classic and easy-to-achieve hairstyle that can also protect your hair. By keeping your hair tied up and away from your face, you minimize exposure to heat and friction. However, it’s important to choose the right type of hair tie to prevent damage. Opt for fabric or elastic hair ties that are gentle on your hair and avoid using rubber bands.
To create a ponytail, gather your hair at the desired height and secure it with a hair tie. You can also experiment with different ponytail styles, such as high ponytails, low ponytails, or side ponytails, to switch up your look.
4. Twists and Twist Outs
Twists and twist outs are protective hairstyles that are great for natural hair. They help in retaining moisture, reducing breakage, and promoting hair growth. To achieve a twist, divide your hair into small sections and twist each section tightly from the roots to the ends. Leave the twists in overnight or for a few hours, then unravel them for beautiful twist out curls.
To enhance the longevity of your twists, you can also use styling products like curl creams or gels. These products help in defining the twists and keeping them intact for a longer period.
Tips for Maintaining Hair Health
While choosing the right hairstyles can protect your hair, it’s important to follow a comprehensive hair care routine to maintain its health. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid excessive heat styling
- Use a heat protectant before using hot tools
- Limit the use of chemical treatments
- Moisturize your hair regularly
- Deep condition your hair at least once a week
- Trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends
- Protect your hair from sun damage by wearing a hat or using UV protectant products
- Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to minimize breakage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should I change my hairstyle to protect my hair?
A: It is not necessary to change your hairstyle frequently to protect your hair. Instead, focus on choosing hairstyles that minimize heat, friction, and tension. You can stick to a protective hairstyle for a few days or weeks, depending on your comfort and hair health.
Q: Can I still use heat styling tools while protecting my hair?
A: While it’s best to minimize the use of heat styling tools, you can still use them occasionally. Make sure to use a heat protectant spray or serum before styling and keep the heat setting at a moderate level to prevent excessive damage.
Q: Are protective hairstyles suitable for all hair types?
A: Yes, protective hairstyles can be adapted to suit all hair types, whether it’s straight, curly, or coily. The key is to choose a style that doesn’t put excessive tension on your hair and scalp.
Q: How long should I keep my hair in a protective style?
A: The duration of a protective style depends on various factors, including your hair type, the health of your hair, and your personal preference. Some people keep their hair in a protective style for a few days, while others may keep it for weeks. It’s important to listen to your hair and give it a break when needed.
By choosing the right hairstyles and following a consistent hair care routine, you can protect your hair and promote its overall health. Experiment with different styles, have fun with your hair, and remember to embrace its natural beauty. Your hair will thank you!