The least damaging protective styles are those that apply minimal tension to the scalp and hairline, such as loose twists, low-tension braids, or a wig. These styles minimize stress on your hair, reducing the risk of traction alopecia and breakage.
According to Gemma, gradually adding hair to the braid means “knotless braids are an overall safer option, because the method creates less tension and pulling on the roots, so there's less chance of traction alopecia and follicle damage.”
Low Ponytail Hairstyles
A low ponytail is one of the best hairstyles that won't damage the hairline. It's ideal if you want a sleek hairstyle that's easy on your scalp and hairline. Putting together this style is virtually effortless.
Do protective styles help hair grow? Protective hairstyles cannot help your hair grow. Your DNA determines the rate at which your hair grows, and there are no products, hairstyles, or treatments that can change that.
Your protective style should not be keeping you from cleansing your scalp and moisturizing your hair,” she says. Two of Niani's personal favorite low-tension styles that fit this criteria are knotless braids and two-strand twists.
If you're looking for a longer-lasting, more durable style, choose braids. If you prefer a higher-maintenance style that's gentler on the hair, twists are for you. Still looking for hairstyling ideas? Check out our easy protective hairstyle guide.
Tight, high updos, extensions, and straightening are all risky choices. Less damaging options are loose, low, and natural styles. You know all too well that bleach and heat styling are the notorious villains of hair damage, wreaking havoc on your locks and causing brittle strands and split ends.
You can reduce the strain on your roots and scalp by chopping off split ends and older sections. This promotes healthier hair growth with fewer split ends and breakage. Furthermore, short hair is easier to manage and maintain. You'll spend less time with heat styling tools, often the culprits of damage and hair stress.
If hair growth is a goal, box braids can serve as a protective style that minimizes manipulation and breakage.
Braids are the ultimate go-to for hair protection. They are versatile, stylish, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you opt for classic French braids, loose braids, or cornrows, braids can help to keep your hair neat and prevent breakage. They're also great if you live a busy lifestyle.
Typically, loose messy styles will allow you to achieve a youthful aesthetic. They can help soften your features and create a cool, effortless look. You may want to avoid super tight, pulled-back styles since they can appear severe.
Knotless box braids
Instead of creating a knot at the root like with traditional box braids, knotless braids are created using a feed-in braid technique. As a result, there's less tension on the scalp, which can help minimize the risk of hair breakage (and is especially great for those with thin or fine hair).
"For thinning hair, choose a low tension braid that avoids any weak areas, like a knotless box braid," recommends Harris-Dupart. "Regular box braids start with a knot at the scalp that tends to pull the scalp as the extension hair is attached," Emmanuel adds.
The least damaging protective styles are those that apply minimal tension to the scalp and hairline, such as loose twists, low-tension braids, or a wig. These styles minimize stress on your hair, reducing the risk of traction alopecia and breakage.
Protect your hair in style with box braids, the chic and protective style that will safeguard your hair against breakage. Follow these simple steps to achieve flawless box braids while keeping your hair protected.
The healthiest hairstyles are gentle and avoid tightness. Loose buns, braids, or wrapping your hair are all great options. Pair them with a moisturizing product like GK Hair's ThermalStyleHer Cream for added protection.