If you have natural hair, you know there are endless products, tips and hairstyles to choose from. One of the most important things you can do for your hair is to wear a protective style. These are long-lasting looks that help keep your hair healthy and free of damage while promoting hair growth. It can be overwhelming sometimes, but no worries, we're here to help! Check out our top 10 protective hairstyles for natural hair, along with tips and tricks to easily recreate them.

1. Braids

Braids are one of the best protective styles for natural hair. Braids help to protect the hair from damage by keeping it secure and preventing rubbing, shielding it from the everyday wear and tear that can lead to split ends and breakage. They can be worn in a variety of ways. A few standouts are knotless, cornrows, or rocking it as an updo.
Achieve the style with these products.

2. Two-Strand Twists

Twists are a low-manipulation style that can be done on dry or wet hair. To do a twist, divide your hair into sections and then twist each section around itself. You can use a product to help with frizz and add definition. Twists can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Achieve the style with these styling products.

3. Buns

Buns are another excellent option for protective hairstyles. They are easy to style and offer a lot of protection for your hair. Buns can be worn messy, neat, low or high. You can also style your bun to suit any occasion.
Achieve a Sleek Bun with these styling products.

4. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots help protect the hair from constant touch from everyday styling which can easily cause breakage. This style also promotes hair growth and leaves you with a completely different curly style when taken down. To recreate this style, start by sectioning off the hair into small sections. Then use a small amount of product to help twist each section into a tight knot. Once the knots are in place, use a scarf or bonnet to help keep them secure overnight. In the morning, undo the knots and style the hair as desired. You can leave the knots in for a more textured look or brush them out for a smoother, voluminous finish.
Create Bantu Knots that last with these products.

5. Ponytails

Quick & easy, this classic look removes hair from the face while creating options for different styles. Add curls, straighten, flip it or leave it curly. You can go high or low or put it in the center, sleek it down with gel or create a messy one.
Make your Pony sleek with these products.

6. Box Braids

In this braided style, hair is sectioned into defined square shapes (a.k.a. boxes) about an inch wide and then three-strand braided from root to tip. Extensions are often added for length and/or color. Though a low-maintenance style, it's important to care for your scalp when wearing braids by gently applying a soothing, hydrating oil 2-3 times per week.
Complete the look with these styling products.

7. Wrap Scarves

Wrap scarves give you a unique, stylish, comfortable look. Wraps can be worn to keep your hair off your face and neck while preventing it from being pulled or tangled. While wearing, you can also secure and shield your hair from the everyday wear and tear that can lead to split ends and breakage.
Protect your hair with wrap scarves.

8. Crochet Braids

This style uses synthetic hair to create intricate braids that promote hair growth. Crochet braids can be worn for weeks and are a great way to give your natural hair a break. You can put this low maintenance style in an updo or ponytail, or rock them half up and half down.
Complete the look with these products.

9. Feed-In Braids

Perfect for a summer vacation or simply getting your hair out of your face. Section hair into different parts based on how many braids you would like and begin your design in cornrow-like rows. This style involves an intricate braid pattern using hair extensions. You can also create a variety of patterns and designs with these types of braids.
Achieve the style with these products.

10. Wigs

There are hundreds of wig styles to choose from when you're ready to switch it up. These are great options if you want to change your look or need a break from styling your hair. They can also be a good choice if you are trying to give your hair a rest from heat styling or other damaging hair treatments. Braid down your foundation and apply the wig. Make sure the unit is secure after applying, then style to your heart's desire.
Secure your Wig with these styling products.