How to Care For Your Hair In Protective Styles This Summer
Rayna Opoku
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Summer is here, and if you’re anything like us, you're looking for ways to keep your hair low‑maintenance using protective styles while still looking fabulous.
That’s where protective styles come in.
These convenient hairstyles not only save you time each day but also provide a protective barrier against the harsh summer elements like humidity, sweat, and UV damage.
Whether you're rocking box braids, enjoying a chic wig, or flaunting some cornrows, here’s your guide to caring for your hair while showcasing these trendy protective styles.
What Are Protective Styles?
Protective styles are hairstyles designed to shield your natural hair from daily manipulation and environmental stress.
They work by tucking away your ends or keeping your strands in low‑friction, covered positions.
Popular protective styles include:
- Box braids
- Cornrows
- Twists
- Bantu knots
- Wigs
- Crochet braids
- Sew‑in extensions
- Faux locs
During the summer, protective styles are a favorite for keeping curls and coils hydrated and tucked away from damaging sun exposure and over‑styling.
How Long Should You Keep Protective Styles In?
As much as we love a good install, it’s important not to overdo it.
Most stylists recommend leaving protective styles in for no more than 6 to 8 weeks.
Any longer and you risk buildup, breakage, and tension on your roots and edges.
After taking out your style, give your scalp some recovery time.
Choose soft, low‑manipulation styles and consider applying a nourishing treatment before moving on to your next install.
How to Care for Hair in Protective Styles
1. Start With a Clean Slate
Before installing a protective style, prep your scalp and hair with a sulfate‑free shampoo and a deep conditioner.
This removes buildup and boosts hydration, creating a healthy base. Learn more in our Scalp Care Guide.
2. Moisturize Regularly
Protective styles are low‑maintenance, but they are not no‑maintenance.
Keep your scalp and strands hydrated with a lightweight leave‑in spray or mist at least 2 to 3 times a week, paying close attention to your scalp and ends.
3. Cleanse Your Scalp
Summer means more sweat, more oils, and more buildup.
Use a diluted shampoo with an applicator bottle to target your scalp directly.
Massage it gently, rinse with lukewarm water, and follow with a nourishing scalp oil or mist.
4. Use Products Sparingly
Keep gels and edge control to a minimum, especially around the hairline.
Too much product can cause buildup and dry out the delicate areas around your edges.
Choose alcohol‑free options, and avoid pulling your styles too tightly to reduce tension.
5. Protect Your Hair at Night
Wrap your hair in a satin bonnet or scarf, or sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, prevent frizz, and maintain moisture overnight.
6. Don’t Keep Styles In Too Long
Even the best‑looking styles need a refresh.
After 6 to 8 weeks, remove your protective style to prevent matting and tension.
Listen to your scalp—if moisturizing becomes difficult or your roots feel irritated, it’s time for a change.
7. Let Your Scalp Breathe Between Installs
Back‑to‑back protective styles can do more harm than good.
Take at least a week between styles to give your scalp a break and let your strands recover.
8. Wig Wearers: Don’t Forget Your Hair
Wigs offer a lot of styling flexibility, but the natural hair underneath still needs care.
Cleanse and moisturize your cornrows or twists regularly, and opt for glueless wig installs when possible for less tension and more comfort.
When you can, give your scalp a break by removing your wig overnight.
You can find styles like our Rani Headband Wig for easy, glueless installs that offer protective coverage without compromising comfort.
FAQ: Caring for Hair in Protective Styles
Q: What are protective styles good for?
A: They help retain moisture, reduce breakage, and protect natural hair from heat and environmental damage.
Q: How long should you keep a protective style in?
A: Most styles should be kept in for 6 to 8 weeks, depending on how well you maintain them.
Q: What’s the best way to care for box braids?
A: Cleanse your scalp every 1 to 2 weeks, moisturize regularly, and protect your braids at night with satin or silk.
Q: How do I care for my hair under a wig?
A: Moisturize and cleanse your cornrows or twists regularly. Remove the wig when possible, and use gentle styling techniques for installs.
Q: Should I wash my hair in a protective style?
A: Yes! Washing your scalp keeps it clean and comfortable. Use diluted shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
Q: How often should I moisturize my hair in braids?
A: Aim for 2 to 3 times per week using a lightweight, water‑based mist.
Looking for more styling inspiration or tips? Explore the blūm Beauty Guide for more articles, tutorials, and product support tailored to your curls and coils.
