Busting The Myths When It Comes To Protective Styling
MYTH BUSTING: Protective Styling & Curls
Protective styles are a go-to for curl care - braids, twists, buns, and updos promise less manipulation and more growth retention. But there are lots of myths that can make protective styling backfire. Let’s bust the biggest ones.
Myth 1: Protective Styles Don’t Require Maintenance
Busted: Even when your hair is “protected” it still needs care. Scalp cleansing, moisturising, and gentle handling are essential. Neglecting your hair in protective styles can lead to dryness, breakage, or tension-related damage. One of the biggest factors is scalp health and clean hair before you start. Make sure to fully cleanse the scalp and lock in moisture. When you start the journey with consideration you'll find less issues develop along the way. Our Mini Starter Kit is a great way to start.
Myth 2: You Can Leave Styles in Forever
Busted: Leaving braids, twists, or wigs in too long increases the risk of breakage, matting, and even hair loss. Sweat, dirt and build-up will occur over time, so it's vital to manage the styles and refresh them to keep your hair and scalp in optimum health. Most protective styles are best kept for 4-6 weeks, depending on your curl type and hair health.
Myth 3: Tight Styles Make Hair Grow Faster
Busted: Whilst leaving the hair alone can give it time to rest and the reduced manipulation will help with strength and ultimately growth, the issue here is "Tight Styles" which are not helpful or healthy. Tightly pulled braids, ponytails, or buns create tension that can damage follicles and even cause traction alopecia, in other words, hair loss. Pain and pulling are not a pre-requisite and should be avoided at all cost. Protective styles are meant to reduce manipulation, not add stress and tension. Gentle handling is key.
Myth 4: You Don’t Need to Moisturise While in a Protective Style
Busted: Moisture is still essential. Even healthy hair retained within a style, over time, can become brittle and break more easily. Use a light leave-in, our Silky Leave in Conditioner works wonders, or a water-based spray, especially at the ends. You can make your own refresh spray by mixing you Leave in Conditioner with Water, around a 20/80 ratio is sufficient.
Myth 5: Any Protective Style Works for All Curl Patterns
Busted: Not all styles suit every curl type or hair density. Fine curls may need looser braids, while coarser hair can handle larger twists. There's both the look and what will hold well. Finer, looser curls are likely to separate more at the roots so don't be surprised if the the hold doesn't last as well. Choosing a style that complements your curl pattern prevents stress and ensures your hair truly benefits. Remember to ask your braider - they're the experts!
So How Do You Do Protective Styling The Right Way?
- Gentle tension: Avoid tight pulling at the roots.
- Moisturise regularly: Keep hair and scalp hydrated.
- Clean scalp: Use sprays or dilute shampoo to remove buildup.
- Limit duration: Rotate styles every 4-6 weeks.
- Choose curl-friendly styles: Match the style to your curl type and hair density.
Final curl truth: Protective styles protect only when done thoughtfully. When you pair them with hydration, gentle handling, and scalp care, they can help your curls thrive, retain length, and stay healthy.
