Summer sunshine can be wonderful for our spirits but harsh on our curls. Heat, humidity, and UV rays can leave your beautiful curls dry, frizzy, and damaged. Protective hairstyles offer a stylish solution, keeping your locks tucked away while still looking fabulous. These styles not only shield your hair from environmental stressors but also help retain moisture and promote healthy growth.
1. Braided Crown Glory
A regal option that lifts curls off your neck and shoulders completely. The hair is braided around the head like a crown, keeping strands protected from sun damage while creating an elegant, timeless look perfect for beach days or fancy events alike.
2. Twisted Bantu Knots
Originally from Zulu tribes, these stylish knots protect hair ends—the most vulnerable part of curly strands. Sectioning hair into squares and twisting each portion creates small, secure knots that minimize exposure while showcasing your natural texture beautifully.
3. Ananas Updo
Named for its fruity resemblance, this quick style gathers curls high on the head with a loose scrunchie. Your precious curls stay elevated away from sweat and friction while maintaining their shape and bounce for tomorrow’s wear.
4. Goddess Box Braids
Stunning waist-length braids interwoven with curly extensions create this head-turning style. The braided portions shield your natural hair while curly ends add beautiful texture and movement. Lasting up to eight weeks, they’re perfect for entire summer seasons.
5. Twisted Turban Wrap
Colorful fabric turbans completely cover curls from harmful UV rays. Simply gather hair at the crown, wrap your chosen scarf around, and tuck ends neatly. Bonus points for moisture-wicking fabrics that keep your scalp cool during hot days.
6. Flat-Twisted Updo
Platte draaiingen follow the scalp’s contour, directing hair into a sophisticated updo. Unlike cornrows, these twists use just two strands, creating a gentler tension that protects edges. The resulting style keeps every curl safely tucked away from sun exposure.
7. Two-Strand Twist Out
Moisturize hair thoroughly, divide into sections, and twist each with two strands. Sleep with these twists in, then unravel in the morning for defined, protected curls. The overnight setting creates heat-free definition while sealing in precious moisture.
8. Havana Mambo Twists
Chunky, rope-like twists created with lightweight synthetic hair offer substantial protection. These statement-making twists shield your natural curls completely while requiring minimal daily manipulation. Their thickness provides excellent UV protection throughout summer adventures.
9. Fulani vlechten
Inspired by Fulani women of West Africa, these braids feature a central part with thin cornrows flowing backward. Decorative beads not only add beautiful adornment but also weigh down the ends, preventing harmful friction against clothing in summer heat.
10. Passion Twist Bun
Passion twists combine the texture of goddess locs with the bouncy look of spring twists. Gathering these into a high bun creates double protection—first from the twists themselves, then from the secured updo style that elevates hair away from sun exposure.
11. Halo Braid Tuck
Similar to crown braids but with ends tucked invisibly into the braid itself. This creates a seamless circular braid that completely protects every strand. The sleek, polished look works beautifully for both beach days and formal summer events.
12. Sculptural Flat Twist
Artistic patterns created with flat twists offer a canvas for creativity while providing superior protection. Curls stay safely woven into the design, preventing direct sun contact. These geometric patterns can be customized to your unique style preferences.
13. Silk-Wrapped Ponytail
A hoge paardenstaart wrapped with silk ribbon or scarf combines practicality with elegance. The silk material prevents the friction cotton causes, while the wrapping technique shields the length of your curls from harsh elements and damaging sun rays.
14. Faux Locs Updo
Faux locs provide excellent protection while mimicking traditional locs. Styling these into an updo adds another layer of defense against summer elements. The weight of the locs creates a stunning, full updo that stays secure all day.
15. Crochet Braid Bob
Cornrow your natural hair underneath, then use a crochet needle to attach pre-curled extensions. This shoulder-length bob offers full protection with minimal maintenance. The shorter length prevents heavy pulling while still providing complete coverage from harsh sun.
16. Twisted Chignon
Elegant for summer weddings or sophisticated events, this low bun starts with two-strand twists gathered at the nape. The twisted texture maintains curl pattern integrity while the secure chignon keeps strands safely tucked away from damaging elements.