The Best Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair Growth in 2024

Protective hair styling for natural hair has been a staple in the hair community for many years. However, it can often be misconstrued with just everyday hairstyles. The difference is that protective hairstyles should not pull or tug at your natural hair and should be maintained with your hair care routine.

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Healthy protective hairstyles can be done with little to no tension and add the proper structure, moisture, and access to your coily and curly natural hair. 

HOW TO GROW HEALTHY NATURAL HAIR?

To grow healthy natural hair, develop a quality haircare routine, keep your scalp clean and healthy, get regular trims done, hydrate your curly hair, and wear protective hairstyles to keep your hair from damage and promote growth retention.

1. Braided Crown

This is an elegant style to wear when you want to switch up your protective hairstyles. When preparing your hair for a braided crown, it’ll be more convenient to work on pre-stretched hair for the best results.

Product suggestion: Uncle Funky’s Daughter Supercurl Miracle Moisture Creme

2. Cornrows

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! 

Cornrows can be done for all natural hair types and lengths. The key with cornrows is to make sure your hair is fully detangled and moisturized before braiding, and make sure you do not braid your edges tight. You’ll also always want to continue to moisturize your scalp for natural hair length retention and after three to four weeks, take your braids down, wash, condition, and re-braid if you’d like.

Product suggestion: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil or Wild Growth Hair Oil

3. Mini Twists

You can grow long natural hair with mini twists, giving your curly hair a break from day-to-day manipulation. Mini twists can be done on any hair length, and you can do these yourself at home!

Product suggestion: Maui Moisture Curl Quench Coconut Oil Ultra Hold Gel

4. Low Space Buns

These are your regular cute space buns but with less tension. You should wear them low and not use a metal clamp hair tie for the healthiest option on your curls. These look great after an old wash and go or twist out. Throughout the week, just make sure you moisturize your hair with a curl refresher and hair oil to seal it in.

Product suggestion: tgin Rose Water Curl Refresher for Natural Hair

5. Knotless Braids

Knotless braids are by far the best option for getting braids with added hair because they do not carry as much tension on the scalp and hair. Your hair will retain its length and thrive better if your scalp is less stressed. It’s also highly encouraged to continue to wash your scalp when it is in knotless braids for this very reason.

Product suggestion: Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Water-to-Foam Sulfate Free Vegan Shampoo

6. Low Twisted Bun

This style takes little to no time, and with a tad bit of gel on the edges, this will have you looking like you spent hours on your hair!

Product suggestion: Hicks Edge Control

Conclusion

Growing healthy natural hair is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and consistency. Embrace your hair's natural texture and celebrate each stage of growth along the way. Remember that everyone's hair journey is unique, so be patient with yourself and stay committed to nurturing your curls with love and care.

With patience, persistence, and a little TLC, you'll be well on your way to achieving the healthy, vibrant curls of your dreams.