Healthy Hair Growth Plan: Protective Styling

The Healthy Hair Growth Plan

Protective styling is an important aspect of a healthy hair routine and for those seeking to retain hair length. However be careful in your choice of protective styling, because if not done properly this can actually lead to damage as well. Protective styling is any hair style that protects the ends of our hair, which are the oldest portion of our hair, leaving it more fragile and prone to damage. Hair thrives when protective styling is in use, because less stress is put on the hair from styling, therefore less damage is caused to the hair.

The tools utilized in protective styling and even the styles chosen should be gentle on the hair for the ultimate results.

Rubber bands are very stressful on the hair even the plastic ones can do some damage. However, if you do decide to wear them try not to wear them as often, and perhaps cutting them off your hair is a better move than actually pulling them off your hair. The tools that you use to secure your protective styles, should be gentle on the hair, your goal is to retain your hair not to damage it.

I hardly use anything on my hair to secure it which is why I like to opt for styles that do not require me to use anything to secure my hair. However if you want to do a protective bun for instance, use a ponytail holder that is nice and stretchy with a soft texture, or you can even use a nylon stocking for a homemade ponytail holder.

Braid extensions should be proceeded with caution.

Previously, I have done blog posts on caring for your hair with braid extensions and how long should you wear them for.  However, hair needs to be washed, conditioned, and moisturized on a routine basis. While you can give your hair this care while wearing extensions it is still not experiencing the full extent of care that it needs so keep this in mind when wearing extensions.

Plan out your protective styling and rotate your styles.

This is an example of a cycle you can follow to protect your hair that has really helped me in my natural hair journey.

1. Protective Style
2. On the 6 or 7^th day I have the option to wear my hair out
3. Wash and Deep Condition
4. Moisturizing my hair throughout the week as needed