Protective Hairstyles: Twists, Braids, Buns – Curly Kids

Navigating the world of curly hair can be a challenging, yet rewarding, experience. For parents of curly-haired children, finding the right hairstyles that protect and nurture those beautiful locks is essential. Protective hairstyles not only help in retaining length but also minimize the need for daily styling, which can cause breakage. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to creating three protective styles — twists, braids, and buns — that are not only practical but perfect for showcasing your child’s natural curls. Plus, these styles can last up to a week, making them ideal for busy families.  Read on for our post on Protective Hairstyles: Twists, Braids, Buns – Curly Kids.

Pre-Style Preparation

Before you get started, there are a few key steps to prepare your child’s hair for styling. 

1. Cleanse and Detangle: Start with a gentle cleansing of the hair using a moisturizing shampoo. Follow this up with a generous application of a moisturizing conditioner and detangle the hair thoroughly with a wide-tooth comb.
2. Moisturize: Apply a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray to keep the hair moisturized. This step is especially crucial for curly hair as it is naturally drier than other hair types.
3. Sectioning: Section the hair into parts that are manageable for the child. Smaller sections make it easier to braid or twist the hair neatly.

Here’s A Video Showing Two Strand Twists by Glow up with Paige

 

 

The Twists

Twists are a versatile and low-maintenance protective style that can be adorned with beads or left loose. Here’s how to create them.

Products and Tools:

• Wide-tooth comb
• Moisturizing shampoo
• Detangling spray
• Moisturizing conditioner
• Curl cream

Step-by-Step:

1. Start by parting the hair into small, even sections.
2. Apply a small amount of curl cream to each section for added definition and to prevent frizz.
3. Split each section into two parts and twist them around each other, adding more hair to each section as you go.
4. Secure the ends of the twists with a small hair elastic or a hair-friendly band.
5. To give the style a polished look, gently run a small amount of cream over the twists to smooth down any flyaways.

Pro Tips:

• Twist the hair in the direction that the curl grows for a neater appearance.
• Avoid twisting the hair too tightly to prevent unnecessary tension on the scalp, which can lead to discomfort or breakage.
• Use a satin scarf or bonnet at night to keep the twists in place and prevent frizz.

The Braids

Braids offer a more secure option for keeping the hair in place. Dutch braids or cornrows can be a fun and protective style for children.

Products and Tools:

• Detangling comb
• Moisturizing shampoo
• Hair oil
• Edge control
• Hair elastics

Step-by-Step:

1. Beginning at the front of the head, take a small section of hair and divide it into three even sections.
2. Cross the right section under the middle, then repeat on the left.
3. Continue adding small sections of hair from the root as you braid, incorporating them into the braid.
4. Braid down to the ends of the hair and secure with a hair elastic.
5. Apply edge control to the hairline and partings to ensure the braids stay sleek.

Pro Tips:

• If the child has a sensitive scalp, opt for larger braids and leave more hair out at the root.
• Regularly oil the scalp and hair to keep the style looking fresh and the hair moisturized.

The Buns

Buns are a classic and practical style for curly hair. They can be high or low, and are perfect for any occasion.

Products and Tools:

• Wide-tooth comb
• Water spray bottle
• Hair elastics
• Bobby pins
• Styling gel
• Curl cream
• Hair net or scarf

Step-by-Step:

1. Start with detangled, sectioned hair.
2. Use a water spray bottle to dampen the hair slightly. This makes it easier to manage and style.
3. Gather the hair into a ponytail and secure with a hair elastic.
4. Twist or braid the ponytail and then wrap it around the elastic to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins.
5. Smooth down any flyaways with a small amount of styling gel.
6. To keep the bun in place and to avoid frizz, cover it with a hair net or scarf before bed or before outdoor activities.

Pro Tips:

• Experiment with different bun positions to find the most comfortable style for your child.
• Apply a small amount of curl cream to the ends of the hair before styling to define the curls.

Incorporating these protective styles into your child’s hair care routine can help maintain the health and beauty of their curls. Remember to use high-quality, nourishing products and to keep the hair moisturized and well-cared for. With patience and practice, you’ll become a pro at creating these beautiful styles that will not only protect your child’s hair but also make them feel confident and stylish.