One of the biggest misconceptions about having short natural hair is that there are limited styling options available. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. There are many protective styles that can be done on short natural hair to keep it healthy and protected. In this article, we will explore five protective styles for short natural hair, along with their benefits.
1: Twists
Twists are a popular protective style for natural hair, and they work well on short hair too. This style involves taking two sections of hair and twisting them together until they form a rope-like effect. Here are some benefits of twists:
- Protection: Twists provide great protection for your hair, as they keep it tucked away and shielded from environmental factors.
- Versatility: Twists can be worn in a variety of ways, such as updos or just left down.
- Low maintenance: Once twisted, you don’t have to do much to maintain this style. You can spritz your hair with water daily to keep it moisturized and shiny.
To achieve this look, you will need a styling cream or gel, and a rat-tail comb to part your hair into sections.
Step 1: Section your hair into small parts
Step 2: Apply your styling cream or gel to each section
Step 3: Twist each part tightly, starting at the root
Step 4: Let your hair dry overnight or sit under a hooded dryer
Step 5: Untwist your hair and separate the strands for a fuller look
2: Braids
Braids are another classic protective style for natural hair, and they can be done on short hair too. This style involves weaving three strands of hair together to create a patterned effect. Here are some benefits of braids:
- Versatility: Braids can be styled in various ways, including updos and ponytails.
- Protection: Braids protect your hair from damage caused by environmental factors, such as wind and sun.
- Low maintenance: Once braided, you don’t have to do much to maintain this style. You can spritz your hair with water daily to keep it moisturized and shiny.
To achieve this look, you will need a styling cream or gel, and a rat-tail comb to part your hair into sections.
Step 1: Section your hair into small parts
Step 2: Apply your styling cream or gel to each section
Step 3: Braid each part tightly, starting at the root
Step 4: Let your hair dry overnight or sit under a hooded dryer
Step 5: Untangle your braids and separate the strands for a fuller effect
3: Wigs
Wearing wigs is another great protective style for short natural hair. This style involves wearing a wig over your natural hair, which keeps it protected from the elements. Here are some benefits of wearing wigs:
- Versatility: Wigs come in different styles, lengths, and colors, so you can switch up your look whenever you want.
- Protection: Wigs help protect your natural hair from damage caused by environmental factors, such as wind and sun.
- Low maintenance: With wigs, you don’t have to spend much time styling your hair. Simply put on your wig and go.
To achieve this look, you will need a wig cap and a wig that fits your head properly. You can also add clips to your wig to ensure a secure fit.
Step 1: Put on your wig cap
Step 2: Place your wig on top of the wig cap
Step 3: Adjust the wig until it fits comfortably on your head
Step 4: Add clips to the wig for extra security
Step 5: Style your wig as desired
4: Headwraps
Headwraps are a stylish and protective option for short natural hair. This style involves wrapping a fabric or scarf around your head, covering your hair completely. Here are some benefits of headwraps:
- Versatility: Headwraps come in different colors, patterns, and fabrics, so you can switch up your look whenever you want.
- Protection: Headwraps protect your natural hair from damage caused by environmental factors, such as wind and sun.
- Low maintenance: Headwraps are easy to maintain and can be worn for several days without being removed.
To achieve this look, you will need a headwrap or scarf that is long enough to wrap around your head.
Step 1: Place the center of the scarf at the nape of your neck
Step 2: Cross the ends of the scarf over each other at the top of your head
Step 3: Bring the ends of the scarf to the back of your head and tie a knot
Step 4: Tuck any loose ends into the sides of the scarf
Step 5: Adjust the scarf until it fits comfortably on your head and covers all of your hair
5: Afro Puffs
Afro puffs are a fun and easy protective style for short natural hair. This style involves gathering your hair into two or more puffs on the top of your head. Here are some benefits of afro puffs:
- Versatility: Afro puffs can be styled in different sizes and heights, depending on your preference.
- Protection: Afro puffs protect your natural hair from damage caused by environmental factors, such as wind and sun.
- Low maintenance: Afro puffs are easy to maintain and can be worn for several days without being taken down.
To achieve this look, you will need a styling cream or gel, and hair elastics.
Step 1: Section your hair into two or more parts
Step 2: Apply your styling cream or gel to each section
Step 3: Gather each section into a puff at the top of your head
Step 4: Secure each puff with a hair elastic
Step 5: Fluff out each puff to create volume
Conclusion:
Short natural hair doesn’t mean limited styling options. With these five protective styles, you can keep your hair healthy and protected while still looking stylish. Whether you prefer twists, braids, wigs, headwraps, or afro puffs, there’s a style that will work for you. Try out these styles and see which ones you like best. Remember, the key to healthy natural hair is taking care of it, so make sure to moisturize and protect your hair regularly.
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