What's the Best Protective Hairstyle for Relaxed Hair? 12 Easy and Simple Hairstyles

Co-authored by Karen Leight

Last Updated: October 1, 2022 References

Protective hairstyles are a great way to give your relaxed hair a break from the elements and encourage growth. If you're looking for the best one, you're in luck, as they are actually multiple styles that can work well (and look super cute). This article has a breakdown of some of the best protective hairstyles and how to achieve them at home. Though nearly all of them can be easily styled by yourself, it might be best to consult a stylist before a few of them if you're new to braiding, hairstyling, or have questions about the process.

1

Simple, Chic Bun

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This is a great protective style for an everyday look. Simply brush your hair into a loose, low ponytail.^{[1]
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Research source} Then, twist it into a low bun and secure it with a hair tie.^{[2]
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Research source} Change up the look by experimenting with different parts, like a chic middle part or a trendy, 90s-style side-part.
- Alternatively, separate your ponytail into 3 different braids and twist them all together in a braided bun.^{[3]
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2

Goddess Braid

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This is an elegant style that can be dressed up or down. First, part your hair and separate it into 2 sections. Then, braid 1 section. As you braid, guide the braid so that it wraps around the back of your head and secure the end with a hair tie.^{[4]
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Research source} Repeat the process on the opposite side. Then, take 1 of the braids and wrap it around the back of your head to meet the beginning of the opposite braid. Pin it in place with a hairpin. Then, wrap the remaining braid to meet the top of the opposite braid. (the one that's already pinned). Secure it in place with a hairpin.^{[5]
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- The finished hairstyle should look like a braided updo.

3

Mini Twists

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This is a perfect option for shorter relaxed hair. First, section your hair into 4 parts and secure each one using hair clips. As you section your hair, add a moisturizing hair product like cocoa butter cream to keep your hair hydrated in the twists.^{[6]
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Research source} Next, start twisting by separating 1 section into 2 separate strands and twisting each strand over and under the other. Secure your hair at the end of the twist with a hair tie.^{[7]
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Research source} Repeat the process for each section.
- If you're twisting your hair while your hair is still wet, wrap your hair in a scarf when you're done securing all of the twists. This will help your hair dry.

4

Bantu Knots

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This is a fun and easy look to achieve at home. It's a stylish protective style on its own and can also be used to give your hair cute curls once you take the knots out. First, comb your hair so that it's free of tangles. Then, take a section of your hair (try a small section if you want many small knots or a larger section if you want a few big ones) and twist it. As you twist, wrap it in a circle and hold it against your scalp. Tuck the ends of your hair in the knot and secure it in place with a hairpin. Repeat the process until all of your hair is in knots.^{[8]
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- To keep your hair hydrated, add some hair moisturizer or hair oil to each section before you twist it in the knot. You might try products containing jojoba oil, olive oil, or coconut oil.^{[9]
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- Take out your knots to achieve beautiful, tight curls. Simply twist your knots in the opposite direction that they were rolled in and unravel the curl with your fingers.^{[10]
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- Leave in your Bantu knots for up to 2 weeks.

5

Cornrows

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This versatile style secures your hair in tight braids that lie close to your scalp. They're a superb option for protecting your hair while you grow it out. You can wear them on their own, or use the style to keep your hair tucked under a wig if you want to switch up your look.^{[11]
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Research source} To achieve the look yourself, braid cornrows at home with the help of a friend or by yourself. If you want some professional guidance, make an appointment at a local salon.
- Add hair jewelry to accessorize your cornrows.
- Keep your hair in this style for up to 2 weeks maximum.

6

Weaves

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Weaves are sewn into your hair so that they stay in place. These can last up to 2 months and are a great option if you're looking to get a longer style without having to wait for your hair to grow. Make an appointment with a salon to achieve the perfect look and consider getting your weave freshened up every 2-4 weeks by a stylist.^{[12]
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- If you're comfortable with doing the process yourself, purchase a weave online or at a beauty supply store and weave your hair yourself or with the help of a friend.

7

Long Ponytail

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This is a classic, effortless look you can achieve at home. All you need are some hair extensions. These will protect your hair under the extensions and allow it some space to grow and stay safe from the elements. Pick up your hair extensions at a local beauty supply store or online. Then, tie your natural hair into a low bun. Next, secure your extensions around the bun with the rubber band at the top of the extensions.^{[13]
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Research source} Pin the extensions on top of the bun so that your hair isn't visible under the extensions.^{[14]
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- To add some volume to your ponytail, use 2 sets of extensions.

8

Long Twist

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Use this one as a variation on your stylish ponytail. You'll just need 2 sets of hair extension bundles to complete the look. First, put your natural hair into a low bun. Next, secure 2 hair extension bundles in place over the bun by tying the rubber bands at the tops of the extensions around the bun. After that, twist the 2 bundles together to the end of the extensions and secure them with a hair tie.^{[15]
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- Wear the twist off to one side if you want to accentuate the style.
- Add hair clips and accessories to personalize your look.

9

Halo Braid

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This glamorous look is great for formal occasions. It's another look that will keep your hair protected under styled hair extensions. Pick up the extensions of your choice at a local beauty supply store or online.^{[16]
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Research source} Then, tie your natural hair in a bun and secure the extensions in place using the rubber bands at the top. After that, separate the extension into 2 equal sections and twist both.^{[17]
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Research source} Take 1 twist and bring it across the top of your head like a crown or a halo. Pin it in place with a hairpin.
- Leave the second twist down or wrap it around your natural hair and secure it in the bun. You can even make a double halo by taking the second twist and pinning it atop your head as well.
- Add hair jewelry to spruce up your look and make it even more red-carpet-ready.^{[18]
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10

Box Braids

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This is a gorgeous protective style that can last up to 2 months. To style your hair in box braids, divide your hair into squared-off sections. Then, braid in hair extensions along with your natural hair in each section. Go for knotless box braids if you have a sensitive scalp, as these are not braided as close to your scalp and can help ease any tension. Make an appointment to achieve the style at a salon if you're new to braiding and hairstyling. If you're more experienced, you can totally achieve the look at home.^{[19]
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- To do box braids at home, you'll need 6-8 packs of hair extensions to achieve the glorious long braids of your dreams. Buy these at a local beauty supply store.
- Avoid keeping your braids in longer than 2 months. Give your hair a break with a different style after that time.^{[20]
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11

Faux Locs

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These stunning locs take a little work to achieve, but they're worth it. Try them out if you've always loved the look of dreadlocks but aren't sure you want to stick with the style. To achieve the look, attach hair extensions to your natural hair while it's in braids or cornrows. Since getting faux locs is a pretty involved process, consult a stylist and make an appointment if you're new to styling and braiding on your own.^{[21]
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Research source} If you're more experienced, do faux locs at home.
- Like box braids, faux locs help protect your hair while it grows underneath your extensions.
- Keep your locs for up to 6-8 weeks.

12

Wigs

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If you want to protect your hair but like to change things up, try wigs. This allows you to express your versatile style while protecting your hair underneath the wig. To achieve the look at home, you'll have to pin down your hair and use a wig cap so that the wig stays in place. Once you've pinned down your hair, try out any hair look you've ever dreamed of with the variety of wigs available at beauty supply stores and online.^{[22]
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- The most common methods to pin down your hair under a wig include braids and cornrows.

Expert Q&A

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Question

What should I do if my braids hurt?

Shun Pittman
Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author
Shun Pittman is a Master Cosmetologist, Author, Owner, and Founder of Corps d’Elite Salon and Corps d’Elite Beauty. With over 25 years of international experience, she is dedicated to and specializes in providing luxury salon services to all hair types and textures and every skin tone and shade. Her services include hair conditioning treatments, cutting, coloring, styling, extensions, and makeup application. Shun has experience working with, coaching, training, and mentoring beauty professionals from multiple companies including L'Oréal, Wella, Matrix, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Big Sexy Hair, and Toni & Guy. She is also a host for national and local media outlets and her work has been featured in The Washingtonian, The Cheddar Network, and WJLA Good Morning Washington's Beauty and Fashion Police segments. Shun is the author of “50 Things Your Hairdresser Wants YOU to Know (and a few things we don’t...)".

Shun Pittman

Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author

Expert Answer

Braids should never hurt. This is actually a myth, your braids should be painless. If your hair is hurting you, go back to whoever put the braids in and let them know you're in pain. They should be able to fix them so they don't hurt anymore.

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Question

How can I keep my hair healthy while I'm styling it?

Shun Pittman
Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author
Shun Pittman is a Master Cosmetologist, Author, Owner, and Founder of Corps d’Elite Salon and Corps d’Elite Beauty. With over 25 years of international experience, she is dedicated to and specializes in providing luxury salon services to all hair types and textures and every skin tone and shade. Her services include hair conditioning treatments, cutting, coloring, styling, extensions, and makeup application. Shun has experience working with, coaching, training, and mentoring beauty professionals from multiple companies including L'Oréal, Wella, Matrix, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Big Sexy Hair, and Toni & Guy. She is also a host for national and local media outlets and her work has been featured in The Washingtonian, The Cheddar Network, and WJLA Good Morning Washington's Beauty and Fashion Police segments. Shun is the author of “50 Things Your Hairdresser Wants YOU to Know (and a few things we don’t...)".

Shun Pittman

Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author

Expert Answer

Minimize the amount of friction your hair is exposed to and always use a heat protectant if you're going to use any thermal products or tools.

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Tips

Remember to take care of your hair in the protective style.^{[23]
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Research source} Keep your hair hydrated by using moisturizing products that contain jojoba oil, olive oil, or coconut oil. Apply the hair oil twice a week by massaging your scalp with the oil for 3 minutes.^{[24]
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To keep your hair hydrated at night, sleep with your hair in a silk scarf or bonnet every night.^{[25]
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