Protective hairstyle

A protective hairstyle is a term predominantly used to describe hairstyles suitable for Afro-textured hair whose purpose is to reduce the risk of hairs breaking off short. These hairstyles are designed to minimize manipulation and exposure of the hair to environmental elements. Factors such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and precipitation can adversely affect hair health. Protective hairstyles are beneficial in mitigating these effects by keeping the hair tucked away and reducing its exposure to potentially damaging conditions.

Common types of protective hairstyles include braids, wigs, locs, and twists. These styles not only are functional in protecting the hair from weather-related damage but also aid in retaining hair length and promoting growth. The adoption of protective hairstyles can lead to a reduction in hair tangles and knots. Additionally, these styles can offer respite to the hair from constant styling, pulling, and combing, thus contributing to overall hair health.

Protective hairstyles have also been recognized for their cultural and social significance. They play a role in the expression of cultural identity and can be seen as a form of artistic and personal expression. The versatility and diversity of these hairstyles reflect the rich cultural heritage associated with Afro-textured hair.

Afro-textured hair is often prone to breakage or damage from the elements; protective hairstyles aim to guard against this. However protective hairstyles sometimes involve tension at the scalp, like braids with weaves and wigs, and can cause thinning of the hairline. They may also prevent hair from growing, which, if prolonged, may lead to traction alopecia. This happens mainly in cases of untreated hair that is not properly maintained with the necessary oils and products.

Protective styles require styling hair for a few days and using the correct styles and products. Depending on the hairstyle and how well it is taken care of, protective hairstyles can last between two weeks and two months.

In the United States, some jurisdictions have banned discrimination based on hairstyles associated with African Americans, including protective hairstyles. In 2007, radio host Don Imus caused an outrage when he called the Rutgers University women's basketball team "nappy-headed." This led to cancellations of his future show. In 2020, Noah Cyrus made a comment about "nappy hair," which led to many controversies. She later on apologized through social media, saying she didn't know the context and history behind the terms she had used. A federal bill called the Crown Act of 2022 (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act of 2022) was passed with the intention to prohibit race-based discrimination based on hairstyles and hair texture. In present time Black women have created blogs and YouTube channels to embrace their hairstyles in positive ways.