How to Prep Your Hair for a Protective Style & Make it Last

If you've been around the natural- and curly-haired community for some time, chances are you've come across the term 'protective style.' Just like the name says, a protective style is a great option for those who want to protect their hair from over-manipulation and environmental factors such as extremely cold or hot temperatures. They also come in handy for those times when you need a break from styling your hair! If you're thinking of doing a protective style, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind that will help keep your hair healthy and looking good. 

Protective Style Possibilities Are Endless!

When we think about protective styles, most people think about styles like box braids or twists, but there are so many different options to choose from for every hair type. Find a style that works for your hair texture as well as your lifestyle. You don't necessarily need any added hair for a protective style. If the ends of your hair are tucked away, then you've got a protective style!

Protective Styles to Try:

• Buns
• Updos
• Wigs
• Braids
• Twists
• Bantu Knots

Prepping Your Hair For Your Style

The goal of a protective style is to protect your luscious locks, so it's important to make sure your hair is in the best state possible before you start styling. Thoroughly cleanse and condition your scalp and hair with the Up North Naturals wash day duo, Clean Curls Cleanser and TLC Replenishing Conditioner. Next, detangle and moisturize with a product that will provide long-lasting moisture like the Go-2 Hydrating Leave-in Conditioner. Natural ingredients like argan oil, castor seed oil and vitamin e will saturate your hair in goodness!

Need to blow dry and stretch your hair before doing your protective style? No problem! Shea butter is a natural heat protectant and is the Twist & Curl Hair Butter's main ingredient. Apply a thin coat of the butter to your hair, focusing on the ends which tend to be the most fragile, and you're all set to blow dry.

Keeping Your Hair Healthy While in a Style

You've got your style and you're looking good. Now, the goal is to keep it looking good as long as possible! Keep your hair moisturized and frizz-free while it's in a protective style with a quick spritz of Freshen Up Hair Mist and seal it in with a dime-sized amount of the Twist & Curl Hair Butter or 8-Oil Blend. The 8-Oil Blend is also great to soothe your scalp and counter any dryness. 

Take Time With The Take Down

Most protective styles can last anywhere from two to eight weeks when properly maintained. But after a few weeks, you'll probably be antsy to see all your new growth and feel your curls again. When you're ready to remove your protective style, take your time and be gentle with your hair. Applying some 8-Oil Blend and water to your curls for a pre-poo treatment will also make it easier to detangle any knots and loosen shed hair. 

We hope these pointers will have your next protective style on and popping! Let us know how you use Up North Naturals products for protective styles. 

Written by: Annastasia Liu