Many people are terrified at the thought of protective hairstyles. Even though they have numerous benefits such as all-around protection and moisture retention, the haircare routine that needs to be built around this style is too much for some. But do you really need such a meticulous routine?
In other words, are protective styles low maintenance? The short answer is no but they can be. There are many low-maintenance styles to choose from but we choose the 9 best ones out there. We highly recommend that you go to your stylist and get them installed for their numerous benefits including but not limited to improved hair health and a fashion upgrade.
Just installing one of these styles isn’t enough. Although they are low maintenance, you still need to do a bit of maintenance. Don’t worry: we’ve mentioned some nifty tips to ensure that you can give your hair the care that it needs and deserves. Read on to get a thorough guide on low-maintenance protective styles.
What Are Low Maintenance Protective Hairstyles
As the name suggests, low-maintenance protective styles are those that don’t need a rigorous hair care routine. You don’t need to invest a lot of time in taking care of them. Your life does not revolve around these styles. You can just put them in place and almost forget about them.
The keyword here would be almost. You can’t completely ignore your hair, no matter what style you choose. These styles will just reduce how much care you need to put behind them.
Why You Want Low-Maintenance Protective Hairstyles
If the fact that you don’t need to pay your hair much attention doesn’t convince you, these styles have more to offer. In fact, they offer 7 unique benefits that you won’t find anywhere else.
1. Beginner-Friendly
Easy and effective styles are hard to come by. The good news is that these styles are exactly that. You don’t need to have a deep understanding of the science behind hair care. There is no need to frantically research ingredients in haircare products. This makes it excellent for those of you who have just started looking after your hair.
The issue we commonly see with beginner hair care enthusiasts is that they get overwhelmed with tiring routines. This eases you into our world and helps you brace yourself for more complicated styles to try in the future.
2. Fit For All Hair Types
Different types of hair require different types of styles unless you find a style that can cater to any type of hair. We have some more good news for you. These styles are good to go with any hair. Whether you have super curly hair, coily strands, or even fine, brittle locs, there is a low-maintenance protective style for you.
Protective styles in general can be customized for all types of hair. Unless you wear your braids too tight, you can comfortably wear these styles. Keep in mind that your haircare routine will vary slightly depending on your hair type.
3. Saves Time
Busy women love these styles. If you have a busy lifestyle, you know the value of time better than anyone else. These styles save you countless hours in front of the mirror making sure that you’ve taken good care of your hair or styled it well enough.
Whether you are in the corporate field, an aspiring artist, or a dedicated housewife, you’ll have one less thing to worry about with this style.
4. Requires Little Effort
This goes without saying: low-maintenance hairstyles don’t need as much effort as others. This makes it a great option for those of us who don’t have an active lifestyle and don’t live life on a strict schedule.
When the routines do not break your back, it is much easier to stick to them as well. Even those who are enthusiastic about haircare and wish to put in the effort may get demotivated by styles that require a lot of effort. This solves that issue.
5. Multiple Styling Options
If you are looking to up your hair game, these styles will instantly give you a glow-up.
Protective styles are aesthetically pleasing. Any fashionable individual will be quick to recognize the beauty in the simplicity and practicality of the following styles.
On top of that, you can wear your hair how you like it. You are not restricted to a small number of hairstyles. There are many styles that can be considered low maintenance. We just listed down 9 of our favorite ones. If you are willing to do the research, there are plenty more out there.
6. Versatile
You can do these styles anytime, anywhere. This comes in super handy when you are traveling or on vacation. Think about it: you don’t need to carry hundreds of hair care products and every photo op won’t need hours of touch up. Imagine how much more relaxing these trips will be.
7. Good For Hair Health
The prime reason for opting for a protective style is getting healthy hair. Sealing your hair up is an easy way to ensure hair retention. On top of that, because they are tucked away, there is a lot less strain on the edges, just ensure that the braids aren’t too tight then you’ll be adding a fair bit of pressure.
Low maintenance styles add another dimension to this benefit due to low product usage. You are likely to have reduced hair breakage as your hair is exposed to fewer chemicals.
9 Great Low Maintenance Protective Styles
Does the idea of a style that basically takes care of itself sound enticing to you? Then, these 9 styles are perfect for you. They give you all the aforementioned benefits without creating a burden.
1. Knotless Box Braids
We are hesitant to call this beginner-friendly as this style is insanely difficult to make at home. However, a quick trip to the salon should do the trick. This is great for your hair as the extensions put less strain on the natural strands of your hair.
This style feels really light, you’ll almost feel bald. On that note, you’ll feel almost no pain when they are in place. They look just as good as natural box braids without causing as much damage to your natural hair
2. Two-Strand Twists
Similar to knotless braids, this styles feel light and induces no pain. The only difference is that it is much easier to make than knotless styles. In fact, you can get it done at home yourself even if you have no experience. Beware that it takes time though.
Once in place, this style feels flexible so it is pretty comfortable. On top of that, you can add your personal flair to your style. There are many takes on this simple style and you have the freedom to choose any rendition.
3. Faux Three-Strand Braided Ponytail
Extensions are your friend. Since it isn’t really your natural hair, it requires minimal care. Much like knotless braids and as its long complicated name suggest, this style is also difficult to make. Beginners should definitely go to an experienced stylist to get this style.
Even with someone who knows what they are doing, this style takes time to get right so don’t lose patience. The end result is a very unique style that will turn a few heads for sure.
4. Twisted Chignon from Flat Twists
If you want something that is easy and quick, this classy, timeless style is exactly what you are looking for. The variation in this style makes sure that it isn’t boring either. This is a style that will satisfy anyone who looks at it.
Like all the other styles on this list, this style doesn’t beg for attention. Low-intensity routine will more than do the trick. You never need to worry about styling it either.
Here are some points why a twisted chignon from flat twists can be considered a low-maintenance protective style:
- Once the initial flat twists are created, the style can last for several days or even weeks with proper maintenance, making it a low-maintenance option.
- The style requires minimal manipulation and upkeep, which helps to protect the hair from damage caused by frequent styling.
- The twisted chignon is a protective style, meaning that it helps to prevent breakage and damage to the hair by keeping it tucked away and protected from the elements.
- The style is versatile and can be dressed up or down, making it a great option for any occasion.
- It requires minimal products to maintain, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
- The style is suitable for various hair textures and lengths, making it a great option for many people.
- It can help to promote hair growth by reducing the likelihood of breakage and damage, which can lead to longer, healthier hair over time.
5. Pigtail Braids
This one is a classic. If you are looking for that super cute schoolgirl look, this easy style is for you. It isn’t just for the adorable ones, even goth girls can go for this style. Exhibit A: Wednesday Addams.
Pigtail braids are not just cute, they are also an excellent way to protect your hair from damage. They are a popular hairstyle among women because they are easy to install, long-lasting, and require minimal maintenance.
You can wear them for weeks without worrying about your hair getting damaged. They are especially helpful for those who have natural hair and want to keep it healthy and strong.
Pigtail braids also work great for those who are always on the go and don’t have much time to spend on their hair.
One of the benefits of pigtail braids is that they are versatile and can be styled in various shapes and sizes. You can create different patterns and designs, depending on your personal preference. Whether you want them to be tight or loose, you can achieve your desired look with pigtail braids. Additionally, they are low maintenance and require minimal product usage. All you need is a light oil to keep your scalp and hair moisturized and prevent breakage.
Another advantage of pigtail braids is that they provide excellent protection to your hair from environmental factors and harsh styling practices. They keep your hair out of harm’s way and prevent it from getting damaged by heat, dust, and other elements. With pigtail braids, you can give your hair a break from daily wear and tear, which helps to promote healthy hair growth.
Finally, pigtail braids are easy to take down, and once removed, your hair can be easily detangled with a wide-tooth comb. You can also refresh your pigtail braids with a few spritzes of water and oil, which makes them an ideal option for those who want a protective style that won’t take up too much time. With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why pigtail braids are a go-to hairstyle for many women.
6. Bob Braids
Even though this style is a fair bit shorter than most other styles, you are not missing out. It can be styled in many ways and you can represent your personality with this quirky style. There is a reason that it has stood the test of time since the 90s.
7. Senegalese Twist
It takes a while to put this style in but it totally worth it. Senegal’s take on Twists has garnered a lot of attention due to its eye-catching nature. We don’t blame people, this is one of the most stylish hairstyles out there.
Senegalese twists are a widely favored protective hairstyle that can last for several weeks to months with very little upkeep. They offer versatility, allowing them to be styled in various ways, while also shielding natural hair from harm caused by styling tools and environmental factors. Senegalese twists don’t require much manipulation and are affordable, requiring only a basic moisturizer or oil to keep them looking good.
8. Braided Bun Updo
Working against gravity never looked so good. This simple, elegant, and suave style is fit for everyone. There is no risk of cultural appropriation. Other styles are unique to the black community and an important representation of their culture, you may offend some people by sporting them.
Braided Bun Updo is a popular low-maintenance protective style that can help to protect the hair from damage caused by daily styling and manipulation. Not only is it easy to maintain, but it also looks stylish and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This makes it a great option for people who want to switch up their hairstyle without spending hours on maintenance.
9. Halo Braid
The perfect hairstyle for angels that tucks away your hair to protect your edges from damage. This is another style that does not have a strong cultural significance so you can wear it without triggering anyone.
Halo braids, also known as crown braids, are considered a low-maintenance protective style because they require very little daily maintenance.
Unlike some other braided hairstyles, halo braids don’t require constant re-braiding or touch-ups, making them a great option for people with busy schedules or who don’t want to spend a lot of time on their hair.
Once the braids are in place, they can be left untouched for several weeks, making them a convenient option for those who want to protect their hair from environmental damage or styling stress.
Additionally, halo braids are known for being gentle on the scalp, as the braids are formed in a circular pattern around the crown of the head rather than being tightly pulled back. This means that there is less tension on the hairline and scalp, reducing the risk of hair breakage or traction alopecia. This makes halo braids a great option for people who want a protective style that won’t cause any additional damage to their hair or scalp.
Tips For Low Maintenance Protective Style Hair Care
While you don’t have to follow strict instructions with these styles, it is a wise move to follow these three pieces of advice.
Stick To Your Routine
Just because we say you need to put in minimal effort, it doesn’t mean you don’t put in any effort at all. Regular short periods of care are the easiest way to ensure that your hair is looked after.
Wear Head Protection
Scarves and bonnets are underutilized haircare tools. Any sort of haircare will give you much-needed protection against environmental damage.
Exercise Caution
Depending on the style you choose and how tightly you braid your hair, you need to be careful when doing high-intensity physical activities such as running, working out, or swimming.
FAQ
The protective styles that tend to last the longest are usually braided hairstyles such as box braids, micro braids, or Senegalese twists. These styles can typically stay in for several weeks to a few months with proper care and maintenance.
Generally, hair textures that are tightly coiled or have a natural kink, such as 4C hair, can be more challenging to maintain. This hair type requires extra moisture, care, and detangling to prevent breakage and retain length. However, with the right products and techniques, any hair type can be effectively maintained.
One of the safest protective styles for natural hair is wearing wigs or weaves. These styles provide a barrier between your natural hair and external elements, reducing manipulation and minimizing damage. It’s important to ensure that the wig or weave is installed properly and doesn’t cause tension or traction on your natural hair.
A natural protective hairstyle refers to a hairstyle that keeps your natural hair ends tucked away and protected from damage. Examples of natural protective styles include braids, twists, buns, updos, and wearing wigs or weaves. These styles help minimize manipulation, reduce breakage, and promote hair health.
Yes, knotless braids can be considered a protective style. Knotless braids are a variation of traditional box braids where the hair is fed into the braid without using a knot, resulting in a more natural-looking and less tension-inducing hairstyle.
Puffs can be a protective style depending on how they are done. If the puff is created by gently gathering the hair without excessive tension or the use of damaging accessories, it can be a protective style. However, if the hair is pulled too tightly or manipulated harshly, it can lead to hair breakage and damage.
Protective styles can aid in hair growth by minimizing manipulation, reducing breakage, and allowing your hair to retain length. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy hair care routine, including regular cleansing, moisturizing, and nourishing practices, to optimize hair growth.
Braids such as box braids, micro braids, or Senegalese twists are popular styles that can last approximately four weeks with proper care and maintenance.
When it comes to swimming with braids, it is best to opt for styles that are secured close to the scalp and have minimal loose hair. Box braids or micro braids are commonly chosen for swimming since they can withstand water exposure better than some other styles.
Protective hairstyles that can last for three months include styles like faux locs, passion twists, or long-term box braids.
While some individuals may be able to keep braids in for four months, it is generally not recommended to keep any protective style for that long. It’s important to give your scalp and hair a break from tension and manipulation to prevent potential damage or breakage. It’s advisable to remove and refresh your braids every six to eight weeks.
If your hair is not growing while in a protective style, it may be due to a combination of factors. Protective styles alone do not guarantee hair growth. Other factors such as genetics, overall hair health, diet, and lifestyle habits can influence hair growth. Additionally, if the style is too tight or causing tension,
It’s normal to lose some hair after a protective style, but the amount varies for each individual.
The hardest protective hairstyle to maintain depends on your hair type and personal preferences, as different styles require different levels of upkeep.
Some protective styles that can last for a month include box braids, faux locs, and knotless braids. Remember to care for your hair and scalp during this time.
A well-executed protective hairstyle, such as braids or twists, can help prevent hair damage by reducing manipulation and protecting your hair from environmental factors.
Sleeping with a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase is often recommended to prevent hair damage, regardless of the specific protective hairstyle you’re wearing.
Generally, it is recommended not to keep a protective style for longer than 8 weeks to ensure the health and integrity of your hair.
Sleeping with a protective hairstyle can help maintain its longevity and protect your hair from friction and tangling. However, ensure the style is not too tight or uncomfortable.
Knotless braids are generally considered gentler on the scalp compared to traditional box braids, but it’s important to have them installed by a skilled stylist who can minimize tension and protect your scalp.
When installed properly and not excessively tight, knotless braids are unlikely to cause hair damage. However, it’s important to care for your hair and scalp while wearing any type of braids.
Both knotless braids and box braids have their advantages. Knotless braids are known for their natural look and reduced tension on the scalp, while box braids offer versatility and a longer-lasting style. Choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.
Knotless braids can be a good protective style option, as they distribute the tension more evenly along the hair shaft, reducing the risk of breakage and scalp damage. However, proper installation and maintenance are essential for optimal results.
Final Words
There you have it. If you’ve ever been afraid to get a protective style because you aren’t sure that you can put in the time and effort needed to maintain it, fear no more. Are protective styles low maintenance? No. But do you have access to ones that are? Certainly.
Protective styles are a bit of a life hack for anyone who wants to take care of their hair. These styles protect your hair from the environment so well and keep your hair healthy for years to come. The difference is almost instantly noticeable once you start wearing your hair this way.
However, like with any style, you need to listen to your hair and create a good routine. Otherwise, your hair is doomed to suffer.
