Best protective hairstyles that actually grow your hair

When it comes to protective hairstyles, the goal is simple: protect your natural hair, especially your ends, from breakage, damage, and over-manipulation. These styles give your hair a break from daily styling, help retain length, and promote healthy growth—plus, they can be super cute and stylish too. Win-win.

Whether you’re just starting out on your natural hair journey or you’re just looking for something low-maintenance that’ll last, here are some of the best protective styles to consider 

1. Braids – The OG Protective Style

Braids are timeless. They’ve been around forever and are still one of the most popular protective styles for a reason.

Box Braids: Probably the most well-known. These are individual braids that can be done in all lengths and thicknesses. They’re super versatile—you can throw them in a bun, wear them down, do a half-up look, whatever you’re feeling. They typically last 4–8 weeks with proper care.

Knotless Braids: A newer twist on box braids. Instead of starting with a knot at the root, the braid starts with your own hair and the extension is gradually fed in. It’s way gentler on your scalp, feels lighter, and lays flatter for a more natural look. They also reduce the chances of tension and breakage around your edges.

Cornrows: These lie flat on the scalp and can be as simple or as intricate as you want—think straight-backs, zig-zags, or cool designs. They’re great for under wigs, too, or just as a cute, sleek look by themselves.

Fulani Braids: A mix of cornrows and individual braids, often accessorized with beads or cowrie shells. They’re stylish, cultural, and protective at the same time.

2. Twists – Soft and Lightweight

If you want something a little more lightweight than braids, twists might be the move.

Senegalese Twists: Sleek and smooth. These are done with silky synthetic hair and have a polished finish. They’re great if you want a refined look.

Marley Twists: A bit chunkier and more textured, giving you a more natural look that blends really well with kinky/coily hair.

Two-Strand Twists (on your own hair): No added hair needed. They’re easy to install and take down, low-tension, and you can get a nice twist-out later if you want to switch up the look.

3. Buns and Updos – Quick and Chic

If you’re not into adding hair or spending hours styling, buns and updos can still protect your ends and give your strands a break.

Low Bun or High Puff: Both keep your ends tucked in and look polished with minimal effort. You can slick your edges with some gel or edge control for that laid-back but clean look.

Flat Twists into a Bun: A bit more intricate but very elegant—perfect for work, formal events, or even just when you want to feel put together.

4. Wigs & Weaves – Versatility with Zero Commitment

Wigs are a game-changer. They let you completely switch up your look without touching your real hair.

Wigs: Whether you’re wearing them glueless or sewn down, wigs are amazing because you can protect all your natural hair underneath. Just remember to keep your hair braided, moisturized, and clean under there.

Sew-In Weaves: A longer-term option if you don’t want to deal with a wig every day. These can last a few weeks, and you can still style them in different ways, depending on the install. Again, scalp care is key!

5. Crochet Styles – Fast and Flexible

Crochet braids are such a time-saver. Hair is pre-braided or twisted and then crocheted into your natural hair using a latch hook. It’s less tension on your scalp and super versatile—you can go curly, wavy, loc’d, or braided.

They’re quicker to install than box braids or twists and look amazing once done. Plus, if you like switching up your style often, this is an easy one.

6. Faux Locs & Goddess Locs – The Loc Look Without the Commitment

If you love the look of locs but aren’t ready to lock your hair permanently, faux locs are your best friend.

Faux Locs: These give you that thick, textured loc look and last several weeks.

Goddess Locs: A prettier, more flowy version with loose, curly ends. They look a bit more romantic and boho.

They do take a while to install, but they last and age beautifully—some people even say they look better over time.

But Wait—Let’s Talk About Maintenance

Even the best protective style won’t do its job if you’re not caring for your real hair underneath. Here’s how to keep things truly “protective”:

Don’t install too tight. If your edges or scalp are throbbing after your install... it’s too much. Long-term, that can cause thinning or traction alopecia (hair loss from tension).

Keep your scalp moisturized. Use a light oil or scalp spray every few days, especially if your scalp tends to get dry or itchy.

Wrap your hair at night. Use a satin or silk scarf/bonnet to protect against friction. Cotton pillowcases = breakage.

Don’t leave it in too long. Even low-manipulation styles need to come out eventually. Aim for 4–8 weeks depending on the style and your hair’s needs. Your hair still needs to breathe!

Let your hair rest between installs. Give your scalp a break, deep condition, trim if needed, and let your hair relax for a week or two before the next style.

At the end of the day, protective styles should help you care for your hair while letting you feel beautiful and confident. Whether you want something super low-maintenance or you love changing up your look, there’s a protective style out there for you.