These Are the Only Protective Styles That Keep My Curls and Coils Damage-Free

I honestly don’t think there’s a more important time to protect your hair than in summer. Not only is the sun beating down on your locks, you’re more likely to have a sweaty scalp and humidity can wreak havoc too. Afro hair can be more prone to damage at the best of times so mixing heat and summer activities can lead to stressed out hair and breakage. Because of this, I often wear a few protective styles throughout the warmer months. I also find that I don’t want to style my hair as much when the weather’s warm; I’d much rather spend my time enjoying the summer.

I’ve tried so many protective styles over the years, including braids, wigs, weaves and twists. The best thing about them is that you wake up with your hair pretty much done every day, something that I revel in when comparing the daily management of my curly hair when I decide to wear it in a natural style. Most of the time, I opt for a U-part wig. I leave two thirds of my hair cornrowed underneath and then the top section covers and blends in with the rest of the wig for a seamless look.

When it comes to wigs and weaves, you can really experiment with length and color without having to work without commitment too. Honestly, if you haven’t tried a protective style for your afro textured hair in summer, I urge you to you’ll love much time and worry it’ll free up, so you’ll have more hours spend lapping up the rays instead. Here are some of the protective styles I’ve bookmarked for the months to come.

Box and Knotless Braids

Box braids and knotless braids can take anywhere from three hours for bigger sections to seven hours to do, but the time you lose in sitting in a chair is made up with the time that you save by your hair looking immaculate for weeks on end. Remember the bigger your box braids though, the more likely they are to frizz quicker.

For keeping things smooth, setting mousse or lotion will be a key component in your hair routine to lay down any flyaways that crop up. Prior to braiding, whether you’re doing them yourself or going to a pro, you need a clarifying wash and a good moisture masque to get your hair in the best condition for healthy curls when you take the braids out.

The tendrils around the hairline on Amaka's hairline are a huge trend for this year. Why not experiment with it by adding loose curls throughout each braid and curling the ends for your next braids? It's high-volume style that's effortlessly cool. Whether you refer to this look as boho or goddess, just know it takes a little more maintenance than a more "traditional" box or knotless braid (it adds a little weight too). Having a braid spray, mousse, and brush to coax out and tangles can help ensure these styles are long-lasting.

Extra Small and Micro Braids

Whenever I consider micro braids, I dream about channelling my inner Zoë Kravitz (although her's have been finally ID'd as tree braids and use human hair to get the signature body and movement). Then I think about how long they usually take to install, and opt for small box and knotless braids instead. Because of their smaller size, they do tend to look neater for longer though, lasting anywhere up to two or three months. As there is more added hair used, these braids can feel heavier so keep your scalp and your hairline protected with nourishing oils and alternative styles to alleviate some of the pulling around your hairline.

Curly ends can give braids a point of difference. To set, wrap with perm rods, carefully submerge in hot water and allow to dry. As there is more added hair used, these braids can feel heavier so keep your scalp and your hairline protected with nourishing oils and alternative styles to alleviate some of the pulling around your hairline. Curly ends can give braids a point of difference. To set, wrap with perm rods, carefully submerge in hot water and allow to dry.

Wigs and Weaves

As I mentioned, wigs and weaves are an ideal way to test out new cuts and colours on you as well as protecting your hair from summer. Whether it’s a bronde balayage or a sharp bob, you can easily try out new looks using wigs or a full weave. I opt for a wig with a leave out and blend because I find these and wigs better for summer as you can take them off so it’s not trapping your body heat at night. Wig styles don’t have to only be straight either.

I love Ruka Hair for realistic curls and coily wigs. Want to take the plunge for a lighter color this summer? Wigs and weaves can help you determine if it works for you. Yes, that means you can finally go bleached blonde, fire red, or spicy orange without risking the health of your natural strands.

Twists and Cornrows

I love twists or cornrows for a short summer break as, for me, they have the least staying power but there are also the least heavy protective styles on this list. Typically, you get a few weeks wear from each style. While twists can be maintained as easily at braids, for cornrows there needs to be a heightened focus on scalp heathy because it’ll be so exposed. Use a scalp serum pre-braiding and use soothing scalp mists, gel or lotion while your hair is braided to calm down irritation or itching.

For the best results, start with a a scalp serum before you sit down in the salon chair or begin styling on your own. It's also smart to use a soothing scalp mists, gel or lotion while your hair is braided and plaited to calm down irritation or itching. Need more variety in your protective styles? Consider opting for long twists are a good alternative to braids as they are less heavy (easier to style up or down) and, with no hair aided, don't create as much tension on your edges. Remember, the smaller and short your twists and cornrows are, the longer they'll look neat for.

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