If you have curly hair, there are many hairstyles that can keep it safe and healthy. Some popular options include braids, twists, kinky styles, and updos. These hairstyles protect your hair from damage and prevent it from getting frizzy or hard to manage. It’s important to choose a style that suits your natural texture.

These 15 protective hairstyles will give you the freedom to try different looks and change your hairstyle easily.

1. Fulani Braids

Fulani braids, a beloved protective hairstyle for curly hair, have gained popularity for their beauty and functionality. Originating from the Fulani people of West Africa, these braids are characterized by their intricate patterns and adornments. The braids are created by weaving extensions into the natural hair, which not only adds length and volume but also provides a shield against external elements. Fulani braids help to protect curly hair by minimizing manipulation and reducing exposure to heat and styling products. They allow for easy maintenance, promoting healthy hair growth while showcasing a stunning and culturally significant style.

2. Braided Ponytail

The braided ponytail is a versatile and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity for its practicality and style. This hairstyle involves braiding the hair and gathering it into a ponytail at the nape of the neck or higher up. The braids offer protection by keeping the hair secure and reducing friction, which can lead to breakage. It also prevents tangles and helps to preserve the hair’s natural moisture. The braided ponytail is a great option for those with curly hair as it keeps the strands organized and minimizes frizz. Additionally, it allows for various styling options, such as adding accessories or incorporating different braid patterns, making it a go-to choice for both casual and formal occasions.

3. Marley Twist

Marley Twist is a popular and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity among individuals with curly hair. Named after the type of hair used, Marley Twist involves creating long twists using Marley hair extensions. This hairstyle not only adds length and volume but also shields natural hair from environmental factors and manipulation. Marley Twist helps to protect the hair by minimizing heat styling and reducing daily manipulation, which can lead to breakage. It allows for low-maintenance styling, promoting healthier hair growth while maintaining a chic and trendy appearance. Whether you prefer thin or thick twists, Marley Twist is a versatile option that allows you to express your personal style while keeping your curls safe and beautiful.

4. Braided Crown

The braided crown is a stylish and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity for its elegance and versatility. This hairstyle involves creating two braids that encircle the head like a crown, with the rest of the hair usually left down or gathered into a low bun. The braided crown provides protection by keeping the ends of the hair tucked away, minimizing exposure to external elements and reducing the risk of breakage. It also helps to preserve the hair’s moisture and prevents tangling. The braided crown is not only a practical choice for protecting curly hair but also a beautiful and eye-catching option for special occasions or everyday wear. It allows for creativity with different braid patterns and adornments, adding a touch of regal charm to any hairstyle.

5. Sculptural Headwrap

The sculptural headwrap is a unique and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity for its artistic flair and functionality. This hairstyle involves using a fabric or scarf to create intricate and eye-catching designs on the head. The sculptural headwrap provides protection by covering the hair and shielding it from environmental factors, such as harsh weather conditions or excessive sun exposure. It also helps to retain moisture and prevent frizz, making it an ideal choice for individuals with curly hair. Additionally, the sculptural headwrap allows for versatile styling options, as it can be tailored to suit different occasions and personal preferences. Whether worn casually or for formal events, the sculptural headwrap offers a stylish and protective solution that celebrates self-expression and cultural heritage.

6. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a popular and protective hairstyle that originated from the Bantu people of Southern Africa. This hairstyle involves sectioning the hair and twisting it into small knots close to the scalp. Bantu knots offer protection by keeping the hair secure and minimizing friction, which can lead to breakage. They also help to define and enhance natural curls while preventing tangles and reducing the need for excessive manipulation or styling. Bantu knots are versatile and can be worn as a standalone style or unravelled into beautiful curls. This protective hairstyle not only promotes hair health but also adds a touch of charm and versatility to any look.

7. High Top Knot

The high top knot is a trendy and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity for its chic and effortless look. This hairstyle involves gathering all the hair at the crown of the head and twisting it into a knot. The high top knot offers protection by keeping the ends of the hair tucked away, reducing exposure to external elements and minimizing the risk of breakage. It also helps to preserve the hair’s natural moisture and prevents tangles. A high-top knot is a versatile option that can be worn casually or for formal occasions, making it a go-to choice for individuals with curly hair who desire a stylish and low-maintenance protective hairstyle.

8. Double Braids Protective Styles

Double braids are a popular and protective hairstyle that offers a versatile and stylish look. This hairstyle involves creating two braids on either side of the head, starting from the roots and extending to the ends of the hair. Double braids provide protection by keeping the hair neatly organized and reducing the risk of tangling, breakage, and damage caused by external factors. They help to preserve the hair’s moisture and natural texture, making it an ideal choice for individuals with curly hair. Double braids can be worn in various ways, such as tight and sleek for a polished look or loose and bohemian for a more relaxed vibe. Whether worn casually or for special occasions, double braids offer a practical and beautiful protective style that allows for creativity and self-expression.

9. Pineapple Bun

The pineapple bun is a popular and protective hairstyle that has gained attention for its simplicity and effectiveness. This hairstyle involves gathering all the hair at the top of the head, resembling the shape of a pineapple, and securing it with a hair tie or scrunchie. The pineapple bun offers protection by keeping the ends of the hair tucked away, reducing friction and preventing breakage while sleeping or during daily activities. It helps to preserve the hair’s natural curl pattern, minimize tangles, and maintain moisture. The pineapple bun is a versatile style that can be customized by adjusting the height or adding accessories. It is a quick and easy way to protect curly hair while achieving a playful and stylish look.

10. Box Braids

Box braids are a popular and highly effective protective hairstyle. This style involves sectioning the hair into small, square-shaped sections and braiding each section from the roots to the ends. Box braids offer exceptional protection by encasing the hair, shielding it from environmental factors and reducing manipulation and friction. They help to minimize breakage, tangling, and damage, making them particularly beneficial for individuals with curly hair. Box braids also provide versatility, allowing for various styling options such as updos, ponytails, or leaving them loose. This protective hairstyle not only promotes hair health but also showcases a timeless and stylish look that can be customized to suit personal preferences and fashion trends.

11. Space Buns

Space buns are a trendy and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity for its playful and versatile appeal. This style involves creating two buns on either side of the head, typically positioned towards the top. Space buns offer protection by keeping the ends of the hair tucked away, reducing exposure to external elements and minimizing the risk of breakage. They help to preserve the hair’s moisture and natural texture, making them a great choice for individuals with curly hair. Space buns can be worn in various ways, such as tight and sleek for a polished look or loose and messy for a carefree vibe. This protective hairstyle allows for creativity and self-expression while providing a fun and stylish way to keep the hair safe and secure.

12. Flowing Cornrows

Flowing cornrows are a popular and practical protective hairstyle. This style involves braiding the hair close to the scalp in neat rows, with the braids flowing freely down the back or styled into an updo. Flowing cornrows offer excellent protection by keeping the hair secure and reducing friction, which can lead to breakage. They help to shield the hair from external elements and minimize daily manipulation, promoting hair health and growth. Flowing cornrows are versatile and can be customized with various braid sizes and patterns. This protective hairstyle not only provides a stylish and low-maintenance look but also allows for easy styling options and versatility, making it a go-to choice for those with curly hair.

13. Multi-tonal Braids Extension

Multi-tonal braids extensions are a captivating and protective hairstyle that has gained popularity for its versatility and striking appearance. This style involves adding synthetic or natural hair extensions to the hair, creating braids with multiple colours or shades. Multi-tonal braids extensions offer exceptional protection by minimizing manipulation and reducing stress on the natural hair. They help to shield the hair from daily wear and tear, reducing breakage and promoting healthy hair growth. Additionally, the multi-tonal aspect adds depth and dimension to the hairstyle, allowing for a vibrant and unique look. This protective hairstyle not only offers a bold and eye-catching aesthetic but also provides a practical and low-maintenance option for individuals with curly hair.

14. Knotless Braids

Knotless braids have become a popular and protective hairstyle choice. Unlike traditional braids, knotless braids begin with a small amount of natural hair and gradually incorporate extensions, resulting in a seamless and more comfortable braid. This technique minimizes tension on the scalp, reducing the risk of hair breakage and traction alopecia. Knotless braids provide excellent protection for curly hair by allowing for natural movement and minimizing damage. They also offer versatility in terms of length, size, and styling options, making them a practical and fashionable choice. With knotless braids, individuals can achieve a stylish look while ensuring the health and protection of their hair.

15. Faux Locs

Faux locs have gained popularity as trendy and protective hairstyle. This style involves using synthetic or human hair extensions to create the appearance of dreadlocks without permanently locking the natural hair. Faux locs offer significant protection by providing a barrier between the natural hair and external elements. They reduce manipulation and friction, which can lead to breakage and damage. Faux locs also help to retain moisture and promote hair growth by keeping the hair moisturized and sealed. This protective hairstyle allows individuals to experiment with different lengths, colours, and sizes, providing versatility and a unique look. Faux locs offer a stylish and low-maintenance option for those seeking to protect their curly hair while embracing a fashionable and textured aesthetic.

Takeaway

Protective hairstyles play a crucial role in maintaining the health and vitality of curly hair. These hairstyles offer a range of benefits, including minimizing breakage, reducing tangling, shielding the hair from external elements, and preserving moisture. From braids to twists, buns to extensions, each protective style serves to keep the hair safe while allowing for versatility and personal expression. Whether it’s the practicality of box braids, the elegance of a sculptural headwrap, or the trendiness of faux locs, protective hairstyles offer a balance between functionality and style. By embracing these hairstyles, individuals with curly hair can nurture their natural texture and promote optimal hair growth while looking fabulous.