Summer is upon us, heralding the season for protective hairstyles. While these styles are suitable year-round, there’s something particularly delightful about donning a summer protective look, be it goddess braids, weaves, or autumnal twists.
This year, I’m embracing goddess braids to align with the boho hairstyle trend. However, preparation is crucial before any protective hairstyle. As the saying goes, “Fail to prepare, prepare to fail,” and we certainly don’t want that for your summer look. The key is to ensure your protective style endures the holiday season without compromising your natural hair’s health. Here are essential preparation tips, backed by hair expert Jennie Roberts, to keep your hair fresh and healthy while sporting braids, twists, or extensions.
Start with a Deep Cleanse
Before any protective hairstyle, whether braids or a weave, starting with clean, freshly washed hair and a clean scalp is essential. I typically use a shampoo and conditioner that suits my hair’s needs. For instance, the Fable and Mane Volumising Shampoo and Conditioner Duo (£54, originally £60) softens and strengthens my thin natural hair, which is perfect before braiding.
Afro-textured hair expert Jennie Roberts emphasizes the importance of using a clarifying shampoo for a deep cleanse. She advises, “For any braided hairstyle, it is crucial to begin with clean, detangled, and moisturized hair. Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo like the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo (£11). It effectively removes built-up dirt or oil without drying your hair, thanks to its sulfate-free formula. Always follow up with a hydrating conditioner to improve manageability and detangle your hair for braiding.”
Use a Hair Mask
Concluding your pre-protective style wash routine with a hair mask is highly beneficial. Depending on the mask, it can provide your strands with an extra boost of moisture, hydration, and nourishment. Currently, my favorite is the Adwoa Beauty Baomint Deep Conditioning Treatment (£40), which adds moisture and softens my curls, making detangling much easier.
Always Finish with a Leave-In Conditioner
Leave-in conditioners are essential in the protective hairstyle preparation routine. Despite initial skepticism, I’ve found them indispensable, especially since I prefer blow-drying my hair before styling. I use the African Pride Olive Miracle Anti-Breakage Leave-In Conditioner (£8) along with a heat protectant to maintain soft curls and avoid snags when detangling. Using a heat protectant is a no-brainer.
Roberts recommends, “Always finish with a leave-in conditioner to moisturize your hair and ensure it’s protected while the braids are in. My current favorite is the new SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Leave-In Conditioner (£12), which offers intense hydration with its ultra-nourishing formula, enriched with antioxidant-rich fig extract and a blend of Mafura and Baobab Oils.”
Book a Pre-Style Trim if Necessary
Before heading to the salon, examine your ends and determine if a trim is needed. If unsure, consult your hairdresser. Trimming your ends helps minimize breakage and reduce shedding when removing the protective style. Healthier ends also ensure your style remains fresh for longer.
Lauren Gordon is the editorial coordinator at PS UK, focusing on lifestyle and identity content. She holds a journalism degree from the University of the Arts London and has previous experience as a showbiz and TV reporter for The Mirror US. Lauren specializes in pop culture, hair, and beauty, offering trend insights, detailed tutorials, and uncovering hidden gems in the beauty industry.