Protective Styles for Any Year: Trendy Braids, Twists, and More to Try This Year
Hey, bestie! If you're anything like me, you know how important it is to switch up your hair game while also keeping your natural curls and coils safe and protected. And if you haven’t already realized it, this year is shaping up to be the year of the cutest, most versatile protective styles. Whether you're giving your hair a break or just want something low-maintenance (but still gorgeous), these trendy styles are definitely worth trying.
Protective styles aren’t just about looking cute—they’re also about maintaining the health of your natural hair, keeping your scalp protected, and promoting growth. Let’s dive into the protective styles you’ll be seeing everywhere this year. Trust me, you’re going to want to give these a try.
Trendy Protective Styles to Try
1. Box Braids
Ah, box braids! They’re timeless and for good reason. Not only are they super low-maintenance, but they also offer so many options. You can go for the classic long, thick braids or switch it up with shorter, more textured versions. You can even get creative with different colors and accessories to make the style uniquely yours. Bonus: they protect your natural curls and give your hair a break from manipulation.
Why We Love Them:
- Minimal maintenance
- Versatile styling options (updos, half-up styles, etc.)
- Low tension, which means less breakage for your edges
2. Twist Outs
If you’re into defined, voluminous curls, twist outs are the move. They’re perfect for showing off your natural texture while giving your hair a break from daily manipulation. The beauty of twist outs is how flexible they are: you can use them to create everything from tight, bouncy curls to loose, beachy waves. It's all about how tight or loose you twist!
Why We Love Them:
- Natural-looking and defined curls
- Less tension on the scalp
- Great for both long and short hair
3. Bantu Knots
Looking for something super cute and fun? Bantu knots are back in full force. These mini buns keep your hair protected and tucked away while still giving you a bold, stylish look. You can rock them all over your head or just a few for a funky vibe. Plus, the look transitions into bouncy curls when you take them out, so it’s like getting two styles in one!
Why We Love Them:
- Protective while being playful
- Gives you a curly, textured look once you unravel them
- Super cute and versatile for all occasions
4. Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists are another fantastic protective style to try. These twists are sleek, defined, and add a bit of sophistication to any look. Whether you go for long twists or something more shoulder-length, Senegalese twists protect your hair while adding volume and texture. Plus, they can be styled in a bunch of ways—loose or in an updo for that effortless chic look.
Why We Love Them:
- Defined texture that looks polished
- Can last for weeks
- Less maintenance once installed
5. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are a lifesaver when you want to add some length or volume without too much fuss. With crochet braids, the hair is crocheted onto your natural hair, so you get the look of box braids, twists, or even faux locs without the tension of traditional braiding. The best part? You can change the look up by using different types of hair—curly, wavy, or straight!
Why We Love Them:
- Low tension
- Easy to install and take down
- Allows you to play with different textures
Trending Tip: Take Care of Your Scalp & Edges While Rocking Protective Styles
Look, I get it—protective styles are a lifesaver, but if you’re not careful, they can lead to some issues like breakage, thinning edges, or even scalp irritation. Here’s how to keep everything healthy while you’re rocking your new styles:
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Moisturize Your Scalp: Just because your hair is tucked away doesn’t mean your scalp should be neglected. Use a lightweight scalp oil or moisturizing spray to keep everything nourished.
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Give Your Hair Breaks: Don’t keep protective styles in for too long. It’s good to give your natural hair some time to breathe and hydrate in between styles.
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Be Gentle on Your Edges: We all love a cute, slicked-down baby hair moment, but don’t overdo it! Avoid too much tension around your edges and use products that help keep them hydrated and protected.
Conclusion
Protective styles aren’t just about protecting your natural curls—they’re about expressing yourself, saving time, and looking fierce while doing it. Whether you're keeping things classic with box braids, trying a twist out for extra definition, or experimenting with Bantu knots and this year is definitely the year to take your protective style game to the next level. So go ahead, try something new, and let your natural hair shine!
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