2. DO: Keep the correct style in for long enough – Stretch it out
For retaining length, a protective style is not effective unless it is kept for a sufficient time. This is especially true for no manipulation styles where elimination of breakage is a priority.
Taking a quick survey of naturals with long type 4 hair (examples Sera, Mwedzi, Aijo, Maestra Diva, Loo, Dani), the most success seems to arise from a period of two weeks (though often 3-4 weeks) or longer in twists or braids. Hair is not subsequently left free for long (usually 2-3 days) but is instead rebraided or retwisted for another 2 week (or longer) period. Many of these ladies will have periods of free hair but often not for long during the year. I would estimate that until getting to around mid back length most will be spending 70% or more of the time with twists or braids.
DON’T: Neglect hair or keep the style in for too long.
When hair is in a no manipulation style, your regular routine should not be postponed. You can still wash your hair as normal as well as apply water and oil to moisturise your hair (or whatever you normally use) whenever you feel the need.
For no manipulation styles, there is a danger of build up, lint and matting which can all lead to a loss of length as more aggressive combing, cutting and trimming may be necessary to fix the problems. It is possible to keep a protective style well beyond 2 weeks (even up to 8 weeks). However, a key factor in successfully doing this is to watch out for the possible build up and matting and pay special attention to the hair around the perimeter taking care to redo it every 2 weeks or so.
Ladies, what are your protective styling do’s and dont’s?
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I love this post!! I have found that twisting with Bantu Knots work the best for me during the fall and wintwr months. I basically do it in six large sections, take it down and go!! It last for about seven to eight days. I will include a picture to share, and thanks for sharing your tips ladies.
Never really occurred to me to leave a comment on the designboom weblog.. i mean sure, i read you guys everyday, but the posts i find interesting i fave or bookmark or share the url to others, rather than clicking the comment link.
I am Protective Style Resistant! Its by choice because right now I hate protective styling. I say “right now” because I hope that this is a temporary hate. I’m on a protective style challenge to see if it causes my hair to grow. My hair has always been short, never, ever long. If this protective styling grows my hair, I will have to find a way to start liking it.
(here’s my youtube vid of the challenge)
http://youtu.be/gqE6pJuwS9o
I’m soooo ready to take this style out and see my results.
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Frankly, I don’t believe protective styles are necessary for healthy natural hair. Today natural hair care seems more complicated than necessary. I grew up in the ’70′s. Our afros were beautiful and healthy. We didn’t use cremes, gels and puddings and 1001 different products on our hair. We used 4 thing; Regular trims, Sta Sof Fro Comb Out spray, a good pick, and Ultra Sheen oil spray. Our afros were fully “out” and beautiful. Sta Sof Fro will moisturize, soften and condition even the curliest hair that appears super kinky. It eliminates breakage due to dryness and helps minimize shedding and shrinkage. It’s the best detangler.
I don’t believe in hair typing either. I think it’s polarizing. We need to know our hair is dry and the curlier it is, the dryer it is. We need to understand the importance of keeping it moisturized. Sta Sof Fro will take care of maintenance.
Wigs can actually stunt hair growth. Not a fan of extenstions and weaves that can pull on the scalp. I believe both wigs and weaves don’t allow the scalp to breathe properly, and while hair will grow with them. It will grow better without them. I certainly wouldn’t recommend them beyond the beauty of their style, not as a means for healthy hair. Too often those who have them start getting lax in taking care of the hair.
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In all actuality, being natural or going natural does seem more complicated today due to all the long lists of do’s and don’ts however; there really isn’t any excuse for a person to not experience being natural or find a suitable method to work for them. Why, because there are way too many products on the market designed perfectly for textured hair. In the 60′s and 70′s there weren’t that many products designed for natural black hair, but today the amount of hair products available on the market are endless. My opinion is that every natural needs to find a regimen that works for them and products that work for their hair. Once you find products and a healthy regimen that is helping your hair retain length, STICK WITH IT AND DON’T DEVIATE FROM IT. LEARN YOUR HAIR AND REMEMBER YOU ARE THE BEST EXPERT ON YOUR HAIR, DON’T LET ANY PERSON TELL YOU DIFFERENTLY.
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