10 Beautiful Protective Styles You Need To Try This Winter

There are so many wonderful things to look forward to when winter starts to roll in but the harsh drying weather that comes with the season is definitely one of the downsides nobody wants. As the temperature drops, your hair is more prone to dryness and breakage which is why protective styling is extremely important during this season. 

Protective styles keep your curls tucked in and safe from damage while keeping your hair looking beautiful, so they are the best natural hairstyle you can rock in the winter. In this article, we have a selection of ten amazing protective hairstyles you'll want to wear all through the winter. Read ahead to discover our favourites.

How To Prep Natural Hair For Protective Styles

Before putting your hair in a protective style, it is very important to make sure your hair is properly cleansed and moisturised. Since you will be tucking your hair away, you will likely not have full access to all your hair and scalp once the hairstyle is completed. 

So, you will need to start by shampooing and deep conditioning your hair to keep it nourished, clean, and properly hydrated. Then, apply some leave-in moisturiser after washing your hair to replenish it with enough moisture and make it more manageable for the styling process.

10 Winter protective styles you need to try

1. Cornrows

@rebeccanmyr

2. Wigs

 If you want an easy protective style that won't require too much stress and fully protects your hair, wigs are hands down the best choice for you. There are so many wig styles and textures to choose from, you can also switch up your look as often as you'd like. Whether you want to go for something like our headband wigs or our lace wigs, you can be sure your hair will look stunning.

3. Weaves

Weaves are another perfect protective style for those who prefer easy low maintenance styles. They often look quite seamless and natural, especially when you use a textured weft similar to your natural hair type. Our Brazilian curly, Kinky curly, and Kinky Coarse wefts are perfect for this.

4. Box Braids

@narahairbraiding

Box braids are another classic protective style we all know and love and the best thing about them is you can play around with different lengths, colours and styles. This hairstyle can last anywhere between 6-7 weeks so it is perfect for those on a busy schedule who may more have time to change their hair too often.

 5. Mini Twists

@_harrisjanae_

6.  Twisted Low Bun 

 @naturalblackgirliee_

A bun is a sleek and easy protective style you can do when you're in a rush. Incorporating hair extensions at the end of your bun is a great way to make sure your natural hair is fully protected. You can use our drawstring ponytail extensions or Clip-ins to achieve this hairstyle. Just tuck your hair into a neat bun and attach the extensions for added volume and length.

7. Braided Ponytail

8. Faux Locs

Faux locs are the perfect way to switch up your look without actually locking your hair. This hairstyle is incredibly versatile and can be done in different ways. Feel free to play around with different sizes, colours, and lengths.

9. Goddess Braids

If you're bored of regular box braids and need something with a little more flair, goddess braids should definitely be on your radar. This hairstyle has the perfect combination of volume and curls and it is sure to make you look like an actual goddess.

10. Bantu Knots

 @naturalblackgirliee_

Bantu knots are a great style for those who want something that stands out. They are very easy to install and take down and always look incredible on black women.

 How To Maintain A Protective Style

If you want to actually reap the benefits of your protective style and keep your hair healthy, you need a consistent maintenance routine. Here are some of the things you need to maintain your protective style:

Keep Your Scalp Oiled: It's not only your hair that gets dry in the winter, your scalp can get dry and itchy. So, you need to make sure your scalp gets adequate moisture and nourishment. The best way to do this is with hair oil applied at least once a week.

Always Wear A Satin Bonnet Before Going To Bed: To avoid frizz and friction that can occur when you sleep on cotton beddings, it is extremely important to protect your hair with a high-quality satin bonnet like our adjustable double-sided satin bonnet. This will allow your protective style to last for longer and prevent excessive dryness. 

Do Not Neglect Your Hair: It is very crucial to avoid completely neglecting your hair just because it is in a protective style as that can easily result in breakage and extreme dryness. Your hair still needs moisture and will require consistent hydration at least 1-2 times a week. You can use a leave-in spray to do this.