The harsh and dry winter season is one of the primary reasons behind opting to wear protective hair styles. But before we dive going into the main topic, let’s talk a little about what is a protective style. A protective style simply means that your natural hair; especially the ends, are hidden away so they do not get exposed to the harsh climate.
The key to growing natural afro kinky curly hair is to retain as much length as possible without encouraging breakage from styling and manipulating the hair regularly. For type 3 and type 4 hair textures, experts recommend having tucked hairstyles, that do not pull at the hair and scalp.
What Do We Mean By Protective Style?
These styles are daily low maintenance because they require minimal manipulation. With little amount of touch and manipulation to your own natural hair, you can lower the chances of breakage.
You can also reduce split ends and possible hair breakage by tucking away the ends, which are highly prone to damage. For protective styling, you can make use of wigs, sew-ins using Ginia’s Beauty Collection bundles, clipins and drawstring ponytails. With proper instillation, these extensions can help reduce the tension on your natural hair.
Clip-in extensions are considered to be one of the best innovative methods for protective styling. They are convenient, easy to install and easy to style.
So here are some ways in which you can ensure getting the most out of your protective hairstyles.
Let Go Of The Tension
The advantages of a protective hairstyle lie within the installation process. When you or someone else starts braiding your natural hair to prep for a protective style, make it a point to avoid pulling on your roots tightly. Request that your stylist do not tug on the fragile edges of your hair because this can also result in serious damage.
Proper Hair and Scalp Cleansing
Cleanse and wash your natural hair at least once a week. We recommend using lukewarm water to rinse your hair. People who have coily, wavy or curly hair should avoid hot, steaming water as it can strips off the moisture from hair.
Moisturizing Techniques
Use a deep moisturizing water base conditioner at least twice a month. You can also use the LOC (liquid, oil and cream) method or a serum to trap the moisture in your type 3 or type 4 natural hair as part of your daily routine.
Apply a lightweight conditioner that can be left in your locks to keep your curls soft and hydrated. It is also a great idea to use all-natural oils such as, Olive oil and Coconut oil or a light moisturizer that can help reduce frizz to enhance and maintain the natural luster of your kinky curly hair.
Gently Take Down The Style
Take your time to style down so that you can cause minimal damage to the afro hair. Use the right set of products that will make your hair slip easily so that they become easier to manipulate.