3 Protective Styling Don’ts
Protective styles are a classy yet edgy way to keep natural hair safe from nature’s sometimes harmful elements, be it extreme winter chill or scorching summer UV rays. They are also a creative way to experiment with length, texture, and color without super long-term commitments or damage.
Are you considering installing a protective style into your natural hair this season? If so, make sure you don’t do these 3 things.
ILLUSTRATION NIKISGROOVE
DON’T neglect your scalp
Installing a protective style doesn’t give you a pass on caring for your scalp. Clogged, dirty follicles prevent hair growth, and that would defeat the purpose of protective styling. Use a shampoo with mint to invigorate the scalp while you’re clarifying it.
We recommend:
- Herbal Essences Naked Cleansing Conditioner
- Aubrey Organics GPB Balancing Protein Shampoo
- Carol’s Daughter Rosemary Mint Clarifying Sulfate-Free Shampoo
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DON’T forget to deep condition
Prior to installing your braids or twists, give your natural hair a thorough DC to strengthen the hair shaft and give it tons of moisture. While the style is in your hair, do a weekly protein-rich treatment.
We recommend:
- Curl Junkie Reconstructive Hair Treatment
- AG Hair Cosmetics Conditioner Reconstructing Treatment
- Joico K-Pak Deep Penetrating Reconstructor
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DON’T style too tight
Make sure your braids aren’t installed too tightly or aren’t too heavy, as this might lead to unnecessary hair fall and thinning edges. Remember that protective styles are meant to protect your natural hair, not weaken it. It’s crucial to minimize the times you put your hair in a high bun or ponytail throughout the duration of your style.
Don’t mistake loosened roots for new growth; this could be a sign your protective style is wearing too heavy on your natural hair.
DON’T leave your style in over 3 months
Every now and then, your real hair needs a breather. Keep your twists and braids in no longer than 12 weeks at a time. Before your next install, do a hot oil treatment to repair parched hair. Here’s an easy way to do one at home with what you already have. This will condition, smooth, and strengthen the hair shaft.
DON’T forget to seal
Your real hair’s ends need to be sealed, per usual. Where your natural and braided hair meet, make sure to use a nourishing oil blend for friction damage protection. Work it down the length of your braiding hair for maximum moisturization. Try to do this daily.
We recommend:
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