The 6 Easiest Protective Hairstyles For Natural Hair

Protective hairstyles are critical for keeping your beautiful natural strands safe, healthy, and moisturized. But what if you don’t know how to braid or twist and don’t have time to visit the salon?

These six easy and beginner-friendly protective hairstyles are perfect for you. Learn more about the simplest protective hairstyles you can DIY below. Plus, we’ll give you a few tips on making sure your protective hairstyle is actually helping, not hurting, your natural hair.

1. Hair Wraps

We’ll start with the most beginner-friendly protective hairstyle on our list: The hair wrap. Hair wraps are perfect for hair of all lengths and textures. They also come in a variety of colors that will suit any and every style.

There are dozens of ways to tie your hair wrap from front knots and wraparounds to more advanced braided crowns. You can also add a simple headband scarf to hide dirty roots.

2. Buns

Single buns. Double buns. Faux buns. No matter which type of bun you choose, this is one of the easiest protective hairstyles for natural hair out there.

All you need to pull off this style is a boar bristle brush, styling gel or slick back cream, and a silk or satin hairband or scrunchie. Make sure not to pull your hairband too tight to avoid the risk of traction alopecia.

3. Faux Ponies

Love how well a bun protects your natural hair but like a more glam look? Then try throwing a faux ponytail over your protective bun. These days, brands sell all kinds of faux ponies, including in natural hair textures, stick straight, and even braided.

Again, make sure you don’t secure your bun too tight to avoid unnecessary tension on your scalp. Throw your faux pony or braid over your bun, and you’re good to go!

4. Headband Wigs

Wigs are a tried-and-true solution for protecting your natural strands. What you may not know, though, is that headband wigs are even easier to throw on over your hair.

Headband wigs come with attached headbands that hide your hairline. That means you can throw on a headband wig and go in a matter of minutes. Check out this headband wig review from AfroLovely for more information on this type of wig.

5. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are the much cooler cousin of buns. To get this trendy style, first, divide your hair into sections with a rat tail comb. Then, twist each section into a bun, piling the lengths of your hair on top of each other into knots.

Just like with protective buns, avoid making your Bantu knots too tight to minimize tension. And be sure to choose soft hairbands to reduce any potential breakage. 

6. French Braids

French braids are a cute throwback to our childhood years. They’re also super simple to pull off and, bonus points, you can sleep in them.

If your hair is long enough or if you add extensions, you can sweep your strands back into a single braid. Double french braids are also an on-trend look this year. Add beads, cuffs, or even a silk or satin scarf to spice up your french braids.