It’s summertime, and we naturalistas are embracing the beauty and versatility of protective styles. Whether it’s the classic braids, Senegalese twists, or fierce faux locs, we’re all about keeping our protective styles intact for as long as possible. Here are some maintenance tips that will have your protective style looking fresh all summer long.
1. Nourish Your Scalp with Love and Oil
As much as we adore our protective styles, our scalp can play spoiler with itchiness, flakiness, and dryness. Fear not, for we have a savior – oils! Treat your scalp to a luxurious massage with a high-quality oil like Shining Star or the 3-in-1 Shine Booster from Uncle Funky’s Daughter. Not only will this soothe irritation, but it will give your scalp the tender love and care it deserves. And for some extra pampering, indulge in a heavenly hot oil treatment! Trust us; your scalp will thank you.
2. Don’t Shy Away from a Wash Day
Sometimes, no amount of oil can quell that persistent itch or flakiness. When that happens, it’s time for a wash day! Treat your scalp to a gentle clarifying cleanse with a product like Squeaky. Be sure to be gentle with your scalp, avoiding harsh rubbing that might cause frizz. Let the water flow down the length of your braids, washing away all remaining shampoo and buildup. After your cleanse, spray your favorite leave-in conditioner like Midnite Train.
3. Freshen Up with a Spritz of Delight
We all know that summertime brings sweat and all sorts of odors. To keep your protective style fresh use a revitalizing spray like Defunk. Bid farewell to any unwelcome odors without the need for a full wash. It’s a quick and refreshing touch-up that will leave your hair smelling new.
4. Embrace the Art of Low Manipulation
Summer is the perfect time to explore and embrace fun natural hairstyles. But while we’re all for experimenting, let’s not go overboard. To preserve your protective style and keep frizz at bay, opt for low-manipulation hairstyles. Find your go-to style, and let it be your trusty companion for most of the season. Remember, simplicity can be a showstopper too! Just ensure your hair is protected at night with a satin pillowcase or scarf/bonnet.
Protective style season is not just about looking great; it’s a fantastic way to take a break from your daily hair routine and enjoy life. Savor every moment of summer and watch your natural hair grow beautifully along the way.
