When temperatures drop, moisture drops with it and that can mean dryness, breakage, and frizz for textured hair. Protective styling is one of the smartest ways to maintain length, keep strands hydrated, and reduce manipulation during the cold season. The key is choosing the right style and maintaining it with the right products.
Here’s your guide to the best winter-friendly protective styles and how to keep them looking and feeling healthy with product recommendations from NaturAll.
Why Protective Styles Matter in Cold Weather
Cold air + indoor heat = thirsty strands. Protective styles help by:
- Shielding ends from harsh elements
- Reducing breakage caused by friction from scarves and coats
- Locking in moisture for longer periods
- Cutting down manipulation, which helps retain length
Top Protective Styles for the Cold Season
1. Braids
Braids are a classic wintertime go-to. They’re versatile, long-lasting, and low-maintenance.
Great options:
- Box braids
- Knotless braids
- Feed-in cornrows
- Halo braids
Why they work:
Braids tuck away fragile ends and keep hair stretched, which reduces tangles and breakage.
How to maintain:
Keep your scalp moisturized and prevent frizz by applying a hydrating oil blend every few days. Smooth edges and flyaways with a twisting paste to extend the life of the style.
- NaturAll Avocado & Kiwi Twisting Paste: This twisting gel/paste is formulated for braids & locs, delivers grip & definition, is free of sulphates/parabens, and leaves no residue.
- NaturAll Hydrating Avocado & Kiwi Moisturizer: A lightweight but potent hydrator to help lock in moisture under your braids.
2. Twists
Twists are gentle on the scalp and easy to refresh, making them perfect for drier months.
Great options:
- Two-strand twists
- Marley twists
- Senegalese twists
- Passion twists
Why they work:
Twists minimize tension while keeping strands elongated and protected. They’re also lightweight, making them comfortable for long-term wear.
How to maintain:
Before twisting, use the twisting paste to add definition and hold. Follow up with the hydrating oil (or moisturizer) to seal in moisture and add shine.
- Use the Avocado & Kiwi Twisting Paste (above) for hold and definition.
- For adding shine and sealing ends between retwists, you might also look for a dedicated Hydrating Oil Blend from NaturAll (they mention a hydrating oil blend on their site as part of the braid/loc system)
3. Buns (Low-Manipulation Styles)
If you prefer simpler, quick protective options, buns are ideal—especially low, tucked styles.
Great options:
- Low sleek bun
- High puff bun (with ends tucked)
- Braided or twisted bun
Why they work:
Buns keep ends tucked away from cold air, and they require minimal daily styling.
How to maintain:
Smooth hair into place with a small amount of twisting paste (just to keep flyaways in check). Keep ends moisturized underneath the bun by applying the hydrating moisturizer or oil before tucking.
- Use the Hydrating Avocado & Kiwi Moisturizer (above) to prep hair before forming your bun.
- If you’re wearing braids twisted into a bun, apply the Twisting Paste to the roots/flyaways for control.
Winter Maintenance Tips for All Protective Styles
- Moisturize regularly: A Hydrating Oil Blend or Moisturizer helps your scalp stay calm and your ends stay nourished.
- Wrap your hair at night: Satin scarves or bonnets reduce friction and preserve the style.
- Cleanse gently: Use diluted shampoo or scalp-cleansing foam to remove buildup without disrupting the style.
- Avoid heavy products: Too much product can cause buildup, flaking, and itching. Keep it light, especially with protective styles.
Protective styles are your winter hair-care but only when paired with the right maintenance routine. Using the twisting paste for hold and definition plus a hydrating moisturizer/oil blend for moisture ensures your styles stay fresh, nourished, and long-lasting all season long.
By integrating key products from NaturAll into your routine, you reinforce your styling strategy with quality formulations designed for textured hair.
