Cornrows:

Straight back cornrows are the most original and authentic protective hairstyle, that’s been around since between the 16th and 19th centuries. They’re one of the top 5 best hairstyles to get for this summer. They allow your hair to grow with less tension and they can help prevent traction alopecia. Cornrows help to keep the hair close to the scalp, allowing for better airflow and heat reduction. Just like with every other protective hairstyle, when cornrows are properly done, they should feel a bit tight. In order to reduce the tightness and itchiness, you can use oil, a hot towel, or Aloe vera on to the scalp.

Stitch Braids with Design:

These cornrows are like a special twist on the normal straight back cornrows. You can do many different designs on the head such as, flowers , heart, star, zigzag lines, and more to come. Creating these braids with designs requires skill and practice. Consider seeking a professional hair stylist because most them can’t to these designs properly.  Most likely won’t last that long. 3-4 weeks the most.

Lemonade Braids:

Lemonade braids are a better option of cornrows if you don’t like straight backs and prefer a side part.  Lemonade braids became an icon style back in 2016 when Beyoncé released her lemonade visual album. On the cover of the album, she was wearing her braids to the back. People continue to revamp the style and add different designs to the side or in the parts. They can be done with your natural hair or with extensions. It can last up to 4-6 weeks with proper care.

Knotless Braids:

Knotless braids are a variation of box braids just without the knot. They have way less tightness compared to box braids. They aren’t as heavy either. They can be kept in for  7-9 weeks, even longer. I don’t recommend keeping it in longer with getting them being refreshed.

Goddess/Bohemian Braids:

Bohemian braids are my all time favorite hairstyle that is trending at the moment. You can use synthetic curls or virgin hair curls  in between the braids. The install process can be as little as 30 minutes or take as long as 6-8 hours. Depending on how small your parts are and how much curls you want in each braid. Goddess braids date back to ancient Africa as a symbol of arts and creativity. 

This will make you look like you have a deep/wave bussdown wig without actually getting a wig. That’s why I recommend this hairstyle!

Fulani Braids:

Fulani braids can fall under the same category as cornrows and knotless braids. Its like if the two hairstyles had a baby. Depending on what civilization in Africa you’re in, these braids can symbolize origin, social status, and marital status.  Fulani braids can be done in many different and innovative ways. They also can be decorated with different braid accessories and cowrie shells. They help your hair grow while still looking stylish. Don’t keep them in too long because it can cause damage to the scalp.

Bantu Knots:

This is not one of the most popular protective hairstyles but I really feel like so many girls can rock this hairstyle, this summer. It carries substantial meaning in black culture and are representative of black pride. They last up to only two weeks so if you’re looking for a short lasting, yet beautiful hairstyle, this is your one.

Passion Twists:

Passion twists are two-strand twists that are done using hair extensions. It’s also called the boho look. They were created to be similar to goddess locs in less time. It can be kept in up to four to six weeks depending how well you take care of them. Its gained a lot of popularity and on social media its very trendy on social media. 

It can be worn like Bohemian knotless with curls in it as well.

Micro Braids:

Micro braids are tiny braids so small they often resemble thick strands of hair.  They take hours to install and even longer to remove. You must buy a specific hair if you want them to have the quality of soft, lucious, human hair. Will last you a really long time without looking old. As long as you take care of it properly. Extremely lighter than you would think as well.

Butterfly Locs:

Butterfly locs is a short lasting yet cute locs. They’re also very easy to install by yourself. They’re very lightweight but they get messy easily. The messy look is what makes the hairstyle cute.