Protective Styles
While living with your big beautiful hair unapologetically Black and Out Loud is wonderful there are times when it needs a break. Constant styling, as well as just the harshness of daily life can take it's toll on the hair. Remember, curly hair is very fragile and so from time to time it needs to lay low by way of a protective style. A protective style is one that allows for little to no manipulation for a certain period of time. There is no "best" protective style as they are all great in addition to looking good and saving the wearer a lot of time. Generally, most Curlies wear protective styles for two weeks to a month at most, with the understanding that even though the hair isn't being styled daily, it is still going through it's growth phases so the shampoo and conditioning regimen should still be on the calendar.
The term "braids" has come to mean many things. Most people use it as a general term for a hairstyle that is woven together which is true. Braids are a great protective style that require little to no manipulation and they afford you great versatility. The only concern is that you don't get the braids install too tight as that could cause serious damage to the scalp which could result in hair loss.
Cornrows are braids that traditionally begin at the front hairline and are scalp braided straight to the back of the head in a row. Typically the end of each braid isn't tucked or banded away though it can be. This is considered a protective style because the hair requires no additional styling or manipulation as long as it is braided. If maintained properly this style can last for a few weeks.
An Up Do is traditionally some form of braid or flat twist style where the ends are strategically positioned and secured atop the head or at the back of the head with the use of hair pins to keep it in place. This style is considered a protective style because the hair is first braided which ensures no manipulation, but also because the ends are tucked and pinned away. This style can be worn for a couple of weeks if maintained properly.
Faux Locs are exactly what the name implies, they are fake dread locs. This style is considered a protective style because synthetic hair is wrapped around your real hair which protects it from the environment. This style can be worn for weeks if not months depending on how it is installed and how well it is maintained.