By Chinwe of Hair and Health
Let’s face it. Protective styling can be a challenge for those with shorter, natural hair … especially kinky hair. (I remember hating the way stubby twists looked on my head after the big chop.) However, with the current rise of YouTube naturals, one can get a little more creative in terms of protective styling these days. Check out these six tutorials for inspiration:
1. Classy Updo with Side Flat Twist
Now this tutorial consists of two looks; the “Day 11″ look is the protective style. Start with a diagonal flat twist down one side. Slick the remaining hair into the finished undo. Watch the tutorial for details!
2. Elegant Flat-Twist Updo
This beautiful protective style will work great on low-density, kinky hair that has been stretched (via banding, twist-out, braid-out, etc). It is really simple to create and requires a few bobby pins.
3. Chignon with Cornrows
This is another beautiful protective style for short, kinky natural hair – especially medium to high density. You do not have to be super talented to create this look, but you do need basic cornrowing skills.
4. Flat Twisted Faux Hawk
For you skilled flat-twisters out there, here is something new! (For those who do not know how to flat twist, try asking a friend to help you out on this one.) You essentially flat twist the sides and leave the middle section of hair free. Then you attach twisted extension hair to the middle to create a fuller faux hawk. The extension hair used is this tutorial is from Nafy Collection, or you can alternatively try using Marley hair from local beauty supply store.
5. Simple Classic 1940s Updo
This gorgeous classic style is fairly easy to do. Start by creating a part down the middle of your head (leaving a section out in the front). Then twist or roll each section upwards with the aid of bobby pins to keep the hair intact. Finish off by styling the front into the classic pompadour!
6. Easy Braided Updo
Now this tutorial is for hair that is a little longer … more like in the awkward “in-between” stage. After parting the hair into three sections, you create a braid that zig zags down the sections. Check out the tutorial to see what I mean.
Ladies, will you try any of these styles?
