25 Protective Styles That Will Save You Hours of Styling Time

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Think of all the things you could do if you didn't spend hours doing your natural hair each week. Hell, I could have become a five-star chef in the time I've spent twisting and blow-drying my strands! But this Spring, I'm taking a totally new approach to wash day and embracing protective styles. Luckily, #teamnatural on Instagram has provided plenty of updo inspiration to keep me supplied with ideas for months.
A protective style is any coiffure configuration that keeps your ends safely tucked away. These hairdos require very little daily upkeep and help strands stay moisturized. On top of all that, the looks also promote hair growth since you're not pulling and yanking (causing shedding). Not to mention, your fingers are less likely to fall into early arthritis due to constant twisting. Stick to these protective looks, and you'll have bra-strap-length strands by Summer 2015.
Source: Instagram user janae_raquel, Instagram user psimafro, Instagram user loopsalonatl, and Instagram user fo_la_mi

Secure Side Braid

 

Source: Instagram user mandajesspanda

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Braided Bantu

 

Source: Instagram user fo_la_mi

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Marvelous Mohawk

 

Source: Instagram user freelancestylistsimsim

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Boisterous Bang

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user mini_marley

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Untouchable Upsweep

 

Source: Instagram user loopsalonatl

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Protective Pin-Up

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user moknowshair

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Bubbled Up

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user freelancestylistsimsim

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Bantu Babe

 

Source: Instagram user natural_beauty_couture

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Optimal Updo

 

Source: Instagram user tiffanyville

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Natural Newlywed

 

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Unicorn

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user fashionizkaotic

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Funky French Roll

 

Source: Instagram user thesalonstress

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Folded and Tucked

 

Source: Instagram user khamitkinks

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Bridal Bun

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user khamitkinks

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Twisted and Tucked

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user curlgirlmomo

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Plaited Pompadour

 

Source: Instagram user hairstylist_monisha

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Bohemian Braids

 

Source: Instagram user mz_tammy

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Floral Follicles

 

Source: Instagram user mz_tammy

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Protective Pigtails

 

Source: Instagram user flawlesshairstyle

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Hidden Halo

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user kim_nettles

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Tremendous Topknot

                

                                                    

                

Source: Instagram user psimafro

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Crowning Glory

                                                                                         

Source: Instagram user janae_raquel

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Central Twist

 

Source: Instagram user curlygirlmomo

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Rolled Waves

 

Source: Instagram user khamitkinks