6 Protective hairstyles to keep your hair healthy this winter

As the winter chill settles in, it’s essential to think not just about warm coats and cosy scarves but also how to protect your hair from the harsh elements. Cold weather, dry indoor heating, and icy winds can all contribute to breakage, dryness, and split ends, especially for Afro-textured hair. That’s where protective hairstyles come in. These styles help to lock in moisture, reduce manipulation, and shield your hair from environmental damage.

Here are six protective hairstyles perfect for winter:

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1. Coco Twists

Coco twists are a versatile and chic protective style that involve twisting sections of your natural hair with extensions. Unlike traditional twists, coco twists are typically chunkier and more defined, giving them a unique look that stands out. They’re great for winter because they require minimal daily styling and can last several weeks if properly maintained. Make sure to keep your scalp moisturised with light oils or leave-in conditioners.

@mauricedacrochetmaster Coco Twists Here @Hair By Clipperz #mauricedacrochetmaster #hairbyclipperz #hairbyclipperztechnicalinstitute #hairbyclipperzacademy #naturalhair #cocotwist ♬ original sound - Maurice Da CrochetMaster

2. Sew-In Weave

A classic protective style, the sew-in weave involves braiding your natural hair flat against the scalp and sewing in hair extensions on top. This method allows for a variety of looks, from straight to curly styles, without subjecting your own hair to heat or constant styling. In winter, sew-ins are a practical option for keeping your hair tucked away, provided you regularly cleanse your scalp and avoid too much tension on your edges.

@ludunahairbeauty Love the flat traditional sew in,just like a silk press. ❤️🤌 Traditional sew in using straight bundles human hair 😍 🔗click the link to book #sewin #traditionalsewin #viral #explore #blackgirlmagictiktok #blackgirlmagic #amazonbundles #straighthair #straightbundleshumanhair #straighthumanhairbundles #humanhairstraightbundles #ludunahair #ludunahairbundles #atlantahairstylist #houstonhairstylist #foryoupage #foryou #fypシ ♬ Rock - Stepz

3. Knotless Braids

Knotless braids are a gentler alternative to traditional box braids. Instead of starting the braid with a tight knot at the root, hair extensions are gradually fed in, resulting in less tension and a more natural look. They’re ideal for protecting your hair during the colder months as they reduce breakage and allow for easy scalp access, which is key to maintaining hydration and health when the air is dry.

@byrachellauren
small knotless for my beautiful client 🤎 even with the length, we kept these braids extremely lightweight and flatttt, exactly how she likes them 🫶🏻
♬ MILLION DOLLAR BABY - Tommy Richman

4. Cornrows

Cornrows are one of the oldest and most beloved protective styles. They involve braiding the hair close to the scalp in various patterns. For winter, cornrows can be worn solo or used as a base for wigs and other styles. Their neat, low-maintenance nature makes them perfect for anyone looking to protect their hair while still maintaining a polished appearance. Regular scalp oiling and a silk or satin scarf at night will help retain moisture.

@leeilasmith I fear my hairstylist ate 😝✨ #naturalhair #braidstyles #blackgirlhairstyles #protectivestyles #cornrowsbraids ♬ original sound - Slowed & Reverb Songs 🌊📡

5. Faux Locs

Faux locs mimic the look of traditional dreadlocks without the long-term commitment. Created by wrapping synthetic or human hair around natural strands, they’re stylish, long-lasting, and highly protective. Faux locs are especially popular in colder months because they shield your hair completely from the elements and require little daily maintenance. Be mindful not to make them too heavy, as this could strain your roots.

@blackgirl_locs Book your appointment today loves 🤭 #locwig #braamfontein #trendingvideo #auklandpark #explore #fypシ゚ #viral_video #installation #invisiblelocs #goddesslocs #gypsylocs #indielocs #distressedlocs #indielocs #gypsylocs ♬ original sound - e

6. Micro Twists

For those who love detail and finesse, micro twists are a beautiful option. These ultra-small twists take longer to install but offer flexibility in styling and long-term protection. Their small size means less stress on the scalp and a more natural look that blends easily with your own hair. Moisturising sprays and careful detangling during takedown will help keep your hair in top condition after weeks of wear.

@gbemiyellow The Hair BreakDown! (Finally 😭) ✅The style is called Micro Twists. I use a blend of 2 colors of @darlingnigeria Natural Twist hair. ✅ Every strand has a mix of the 2 colors - 27 & 30 ✅ I cut the hair into 2 at the back and 3 in front so I have a nice bouncy layered effect. ✅ I do Home Service. You can book my stylist Yetunde if you live in Lagos, say you’re from me for extra nice treatment 😉 (+234 708 711 8237) ✅ Yes the hair looks better as it ages 🥰 ✅ I have my install in for about 6 weeks and then I refresh the front and back for another 4 weeks before taking it out for a completely new install. ✅ Yes, this hair is wash friendly. I wash mine every 2 weeks and oil my scalp every week. I think I covered everything. Let me know if you have any questions of if you’d like to see styling videos x #hair #naturalhair #microtwists #sisterlocks #hairstyle #blackgirlhair #kinkytwists #darlingnigeria #divarocks ♬ original sound - Gbemi Giwa