35 Protective Hairstyles with Braids 2024 with Cornrows, Senegalese Twists, Box Braids and Beads

As 2024 approaches, protective hairstyles remain essential for those looking to maintain healthy, strong hair. These styles, particularly braids, offer both versatility and beauty, while safeguarding natural hair from damage. Whether you have 4c hair or straighter textures, protective braided hairstyles cater to all, making them an enduring trend. In this article, we’ll explore 35 protective hairstyle ideas with braids that are not only cute but also practical for various occasions.

Cornrows with Beads

Cornrows have been a classic protective style for years, but in 2024, they’re getting an upgrade with the addition of beads. This style is perfect for creating intricate and unique patterns, making it ideal for black women who want to showcase their cultural heritage while keeping their hair safe. Whether you’re attending a summer event or just want a simple, everyday look, this style works for all occasions. Cornrows with beads are especially flattering on round and oval face shapes, and they can complement darker eye colors beautifully.

To achieve this look, hair is sectioned and braided close to the scalp in various patterns. Beads are then threaded onto the braids for added flair. Maintaining this style is straightforward—just keep your scalp moisturized with natural oils like jojoba or castor oil. A sulfate-free shampoo such as SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo can help cleanse your scalp without stripping away moisture.

Goddess Braids

Goddess braids are the epitome of regal beauty. These larger-than-life braids are thicker than traditional cornrows and offer a natural yet bold look. Ideal for those with 4c hair, goddess braids can be styled in a variety of ways, from updos to ponytails. This style is perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance yet elegant look, whether you’re headed to a formal event or just want to rock a protective style in your day-to-day life. Oval and heart-shaped faces are particularly suited for this hairstyle, and it pairs wonderfully with brown or hazel eyes.

Creating goddess braids involves sectioning the hair and braiding it into thick, defined plaits. You’ll need a good edge control gel and a fine-tooth comb to keep the edges sleek. A lightweight leave-in conditioner like Cantu’s Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream can keep your braids moisturized and frizz-free for weeks.

Senegalese Twists

For those who want to switch up their look, Senegalese twists offer a chic and elegant alternative to traditional braids. This style, which uses extension hair, gives a sleek and polished appearance, making it perfect for professional settings or special events. Senegalese twists are versatile and can be styled in various ways, from buns to ponytails. This protective style is particularly flattering on square and diamond face shapes, and it complements green or blue eyes beautifully.

To achieve Senegalese twists, synthetic hair extensions are twisted into the natural hair, creating a long-lasting and protective style. Maintaining this look is easy—just wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf at night to prevent frizz. Using a braid spray like African Pride’s Braid Sheen Spray can help keep the twists looking fresh and moisturized.

Box Braids with Colorful Weave

Box braids continue to dominate the protective hairstyle scene in 2024, but with a twist—adding colorful weave for a fun and bold statement. This style is perfect for those who want to express their individuality and stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re attending a festival or simply want a cute everyday look, box braids with colorful weave are a fantastic option. This style is particularly flattering on heart-shaped and square faces and works well with lighter eye colors like blue or gray.

To achieve this look, hair is parted into small sections and braided using synthetic hair extensions in various colors. It’s important to keep your scalp clean while wearing box braids, so consider using a scalp refresher like the Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Clarifying Scalp Treatment. Additionally, applying a moisturizing oil like Argan oil can help keep your braids hydrated and shiny.

Crochet Braids with Curly Extensions

Crochet braids have been gaining popularity for their versatility and ease of installation. In 2024, they’re a go-to option for those seeking a protective hairstyle that mimics the look of natural black hair. By adding curly extensions, you can achieve a voluminous and textured look that is perfect for both casual and formal settings. This style works beautifully for round and oval face shapes and pairs well with dark brown or black eyes.

The crochet method involves cornrowing the natural hair and then using a crochet needle to loop pre-curled hair extensions through the cornrows. This technique is quick and less stressful on the scalp compared to traditional braiding. To maintain the curls, use a curl-defining cream like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and a light mousse to reduce frizz.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a timeless African hair braiding style that has remained popular for its edgy and bold look. This style is perfect for those with natural 4c hair, as it allows you to embrace your natural texture while keeping your hair protected. Bantu knots are ideal for festivals, summer outings, or just a fun night out. This style complements oval and round face shapes and pairs well with bright eye colors like green or hazel.

To create Bantu knots, sections of hair are twisted into small coils and then wrapped around themselves to form knots. You’ll need a good twisting cream like Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Twisting Soufflé to achieve a firm hold. To keep your knots moisturized and shiny, apply a light oil like coconut or olive oil regularly.

Feed-In Braids

Feed-in braids are an evolution of traditional cornrows, offering a more natural and seamless look. These braids start small at the scalp and gradually increase in size as hair extensions are added, creating a soft and natural transition. This style is perfect for black women who want a protective style that looks effortless yet elegant. It’s a great choice for everyday wear or special occasions like weddings and formal events. This hairstyle suits heart-shaped and oval faces and pairs well with darker eye colors.

The feed-in braid technique involves gradually adding extensions to the braids as you go, creating a more natural look that is gentle on the scalp. To maintain this style, a good edge control product like Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges will keep your hairline sleek. You can also use a hydrating mist to keep your scalp moisturized throughout the wear.

Locs with Accessories

Locs are a classic protective hairstyle that allows for long-term maintenance and minimal daily styling. In 2024, locs are being elevated with the addition of accessories like beads, cuffs, and shells, making them even more unique and personal. This style is ideal for those who want a long-lasting protective hairstyle that requires minimal upkeep. Locs work well for all face shapes and eye colors, making them a versatile choice for everyone.

To start locs, hair is twisted or braided and left to lock over time. Accessories can be added at any stage of the locking process. To keep your locs healthy and moisturized, use a lightweight oil like Jamaican Black Castor Oil and a residue-free shampoo like Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Pure-Castile Soap to prevent buildup.

Twists with Extensions

Twists are a versatile and easy protective style that can be worn short or long, with or without extensions. In 2024, twists with extensions are gaining popularity for their ability to create length and volume while protecting natural hair. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, and it works well for those with heart-shaped or oval faces. Twists are especially flattering on those with brown or hazel eyes, as the soft texture of the twists complements these features beautifully.

To create this look, extensions are twisted into sections of hair, adding length and fullness. The twisting technique is gentle on the scalp, making this style ideal for those looking to protect their natural hair. To maintain twists, use a light oil like almond oil to keep the scalp moisturized, and wrap your hair at night to preserve the style.

All-Back Braids with an Updo

The all-back braids style is a sleek and sophisticated option that can be transformed into an elegant updo for special occasions. This protective hairstyle is ideal for black women who want a chic and low-maintenance look that can transition from day to night. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a formal event, or simply want a polished look for the office, all-back braids with an updo are the way to go. This style is particularly flattering on oval and square faces and complements darker eye colors beautifully.

To achieve this look, braids are done straight back and then styled into an updo of your choice, such as a bun or a French twist. To keep the updo looking sleek and polished, use a smoothing serum like OGX’s Argan Oil of Morocco Extra Penetrating Oil. Additionally, a strong-hold hairspray can help keep the updo in place for long hours.

Jumbo Box Braids

Jumbo box braids are a bold and dramatic take on the classic box braid style, offering a protective option that is both eye-catching and practical. These braids are thicker and require fewer sections, making them quicker to install than smaller braids. Jumbo box braids are perfect for a statement look, whether you’re heading to a festival or simply want a bold everyday style. This hairstyle is flattering on heart-shaped and oval faces, and it pairs well with darker eye colors like brown or black.

To achieve jumbo box braids, sections of hair are parted into large squares and braided with weave extensions to create thick, long-lasting braids. To keep the scalp healthy and moisturized, use a scalp oil like Wild Growth Hair Oil. Wrapping your hair with a silk scarf at night will help prevent frizz and preserve the style for weeks.

Faux Locs

Faux locs offer the look of traditional locs without the long-term commitment, making them a popular protective style in 2024. These locs are ideal for those who want a textured and bohemian look, perfect for summer festivals or beach vacations. Faux locs work well on all face shapes and can complement any eye color, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance protective hairstyle.

To create faux locs, synthetic hair is wrapped around the natural hair to mimic the look of real locs. This style can be done with short or long extensions, depending on your preference. Maintaining faux locs involves keeping the scalp moisturized with a lightweight oil and using a residue-free shampoo like SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo to prevent buildup.

Twisted Updo with Feed-In Braids

A twisted updo with feed-in braids is a sophisticated protective style that combines the elegance of an updo with the seamless look of feed-in braids. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to make a chic statement. It works well for those with oval or heart-shaped faces and pairs beautifully with dark or hazel eyes.

To achieve this look, feed-in braids are created at the front and sides of the hair, while the back is twisted into a stylish updo. A good edge control gel will help keep your hairline sleek, while a moisturizing mist can keep the style looking fresh and frizz-free. Wrapping your hair at night will help maintain the updo’s structure and prevent flyaways.

Braided Ponytail with Extensions

The braided ponytail with extensions is a sleek and stylish protective style that is perfect for those who want a polished and effortless look. This style can be worn for both casual and formal occasions, making it a versatile option for any event. It works well for those with square or oval face shapes and complements darker eye colors like brown or black.

To create this look, the hair is braided into a single ponytail using extensions to add length and volume. A strong-hold gel will keep the ponytail sleek and in place, while a light oil like argan oil can help add shine and prevent frizz. Wrapping your hair at night with a silk scarf will help maintain the ponytail’s smoothness and prevent breakage.

African Threading Braids

African threading braids are a traditional protective style that uses thread to create intricate braids without the need for heat or chemicals. This style is perfect for those with 4c hair who want to protect their natural texture while adding a unique and cultural twist to their look. African threading braids work well on all face shapes and eye colors, making them a versatile and timeless option.

To create this look, hair is sectioned and wrapped with thread to form braids. The thread can be colored or metallic for added flair. To maintain this style, keep the scalp moisturized with natural oils, and use a leave-in conditioner like As I Am Leave-In Conditioner to keep the hair hydrated and healthy.

Micro Braids

Micro braids are a delicate and intricate protective style that involves creating tiny braids all over the head. This style is perfect for those who want a versatile and long-lasting protective style that can be worn in various ways, from loose and flowing to updos and ponytails. Micro braids are particularly flattering on those with round and heart-shaped faces and complement lighter eye colors like blue or green.

To achieve micro braids, hair is parted into small sections and braided using extensions to add length and volume. This style can take several hours to install, but the results are worth it. To keep the braids looking fresh, use a braid spray like ORS Olive Oil Hold & Shine Wrap/Set Mousse, and wrap your hair at night to prevent frizz.

Marley Twists

Marley twists are a popular protective style that uses Marley hair extensions to create thick, natural-looking twists. This style is perfect for those with black women natural hair who want a protective style that mimics their natural texture. Marley twists are ideal for both casual and formal occasions, and they work well for those with oval or square face shapes. This style complements darker eye colors like brown or black.

To create Marley twists, synthetic Marley hair is twisted into the natural hair to create thick, voluminous twists. To maintain this style, use a light oil like coconut oil to keep the twists moisturized, and a satin or silk scarf to wrap your hair at night to prevent frizz and breakage.

Ghana Braids

Ghana braids are a classic and intricate protective style that involves creating cornrows with added extensions for length and volume. This style is perfect for those who want a sleek and elegant look that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. Ghana braids are flattering on all face shapes and work well with any eye color, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking for a protective hairstyle.

To achieve Ghana braids, the hair is cornrowed close to the scalp, with extensions added for length and fullness. To maintain the style, keep your scalp moisturized with a light oil, and use a silk or satin scarf to wrap your hair at night to preserve the braids’ sleekness.

Halo Braid

The halo braid is an elegant and timeless protective style that wraps around the head like a crown, making it perfect for formal events and special occasions. This style is particularly flattering on heart-shaped and oval faces, and it pairs beautifully with lighter eye colors like blue or green. The halo braid offers a chic and romantic look that can elevate any outfit.

To create a halo braid, the hair is parted and braided into a crown around the head. You’ll need a good edge control product to keep the hairline sleek and frizz-free. To maintain the halo braid, use a moisturizing spray like Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner, and wrap your hair at night to keep the style intact.

Mohawk Braids with Twists

For those looking for a bold and edgy protective style, Mohawk braids with twists offer the perfect combination of creativity and practicality. This style features braids on the sides and twists in the middle, creating a faux hawk effect that is both stylish and protective. Mohawk braids with twists work well for those with oval and square face shapes, and they complement darker eye colors like brown or black.

To achieve this look, the sides of the hair are braided close to the scalp, while the middle section is twisted into voluminous twists. Use a light gel to keep the edges sleek, and wrap your hair at night with a silk scarf to preserve the style. A braid spray can also help keep the twists moisturized and frizz-free.

Protective braided hairstyles in 2024 are all about versatility, creativity, and maintaining the health of your hair. These styles not only protect but also offer a wide range of options for different occasions and personal preferences. Have fun exploring these styles and make sure to leave a comment sharing your thoughts or any other styles you’ve tried!