31 Winter Protective Hairstyles 2024-2025 for Natural Hair with Short and Long Braids, 4c, Locs
Winter protective hairstyles 2024-2025 offer a stylish way to shield natural black hair from harsh winter conditions. Whether you’re looking for braids long, braids short, or creative styles for black women and kids, these 31 ideas keep your hair healthy while looking chic. From locs to weave, find the perfect look for 2025 that suits your hair type and face shape.
Box Braids
Box braids remain a staple for winter protective styles, especially for those with natural or 4c hair. This hairstyle not only keeps your hair tucked away but also adds a chic look that can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions. With the flexibility to style them in various ways—high buns, half-up, or worn loose—box braids are perfect for parties or formal events. This style suits those with round or oval face shapes, while bold eye makeup can complement the overall look.
To create this style, start by sectioning the hair into squares and braiding braids long extensions into your natural strands. You’ll need braiding hair, a leave-in conditioner, and a sealing oil to maintain moisture. Use a gentle scalp cleanser like SheaMoisture African Black Soap to keep your scalp healthy and free from buildup.
Locs with Accessories
Locs are an excellent natural protective style, and adding accessories like beads or gold cuffs can elevate the look. Perfect for black women embracing their natural texture, locs are low-maintenance and can be styled into a range of options, from a high bun to cascading down your back. This style is ideal for those with strong, oval face shapes and looks stunning on individuals with dark or hazel eyes.
To create locs, the hair is sectioned and twisted over time, eventually forming into thick strands. To maintain, use a light oil like Jamaican Black Castor Oil to keep the locs moisturized and free from frizz. Regular retwisting with a loc gel is also important to keep them neat.
Braided Crown
The braided crown is a regal option for those looking to highlight their natural beauty while keeping their hair protected from winter elements. This style wraps the braids around the head like a halo, perfect for formal events like weddings or holiday gatherings. It’s a flattering style for heart-shaped faces and looks stunning with bright eyes and bold makeup.
Creating this style involves braiding your hair around the perimeter of your head and pinning it into place. You’ll need braiding hair, edge control, and bobby pins to hold everything together. For maintenance, a lightweight hair oil will help keep the braids looking fresh while preventing scalp dryness.
Weave with Curls
A weave is another fantastic winter protective style that allows you to change up your look while shielding your natural hair. A weave with loose curls adds volume and a soft, romantic vibe, ideal for date nights or special events. This style is best suited for women with square or heart-shaped faces and green or hazel eyes, as the voluminous curls balance strong facial features.
To achieve this look, the hair is braided into cornrows, and the weave is sewn onto the braids. For maintenance, use a curl-enhancing product like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie to keep the curls bouncy and defined throughout the season.
Short Twists
For those who prefer braids short, twists are a quick, easy, and stylish option. This protective style is perfect for black women with natural short hair or 4c hair looking to keep their hair healthy during the winter months. Twists are versatile and can be worn up or down, making them ideal for any occasion, whether you’re heading to work or attending a holiday party. They work well with oval or round face shapes, while neutral eye makeup enhances the overall look.
Twists are created by dividing the hair into small sections and twisting two strands around each other. For best results, use a moisturizing cream like Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream to keep the hair hydrated and shiny. Regular spritzes of water and oil will also help keep the twists from drying out.
Braided Ponytail
A high braided ponytail offers a sleek and polished look, making it a go-to for formal winter events or a night out. This hairstyle works best for those with oval or oblong face shapes, and dark or smoky eye makeup can add a touch of drama. The sleekness of the ponytail keeps hair away from the elements while offering a sophisticated style.
To create the braids, hair is pulled into a high ponytail and braided into a single or multiple long braids. You’ll need braiding hair, edge control, and a good shine spray to complete the look. Maintain the style by wrapping the ponytail at night and moisturizing the scalp to prevent dryness.
Faux Locs
Faux locs provide the look of natural locs without the long-term commitment. This style is perfect for those looking to experiment with natural black hair and want a versatile, low-maintenance look. Faux locs are great for long face shapes and suit dark brown or green eyes, offering a striking winter look for special occasions.
Creating faux locs involves wrapping synthetic hair around your natural strands, which are often braided beforehand. To keep the locs fresh, use a leave-in conditioner and seal with oil. For extra shine and frizz control, a mousse like ORS Olive Oil Hold & Shine Wrap/Set Mousse will keep the locs looking polished throughout winter.
Braids for Kids
Winter can be harsh on kids’ hair, so braids for kids are an excellent protective option that keeps their hair neat and healthy. Whether it’s cornrows, box braids, or twists, these styles are easy to maintain and keep the hair protected from winter dryness. Braids also work for all face shapes, making them a versatile option for kids of all ages.
To braid a child’s hair, section it into small parts and either braid or twist each part. For maintenance, regularly moisturize the scalp with a lightweight oil and protect the braids at night with a satin bonnet. A mild shampoo like SheaMoisture Mango & Carrot Kids Extra-Nourishing Shampoo is perfect for keeping the hair clean without stripping away moisture.
Curly Braids
Combining braids curly textures offers a dynamic and playful look. This style works well for black women looking to add some bounce to their protective braids while keeping their hair safe from the cold. Curly braids are perfect for square or oval face shapes, and the added curls bring out the warmth in brown or hazel eyes.
To create curly braids, braid the hair as you normally would but leave the ends loose or curl them with flexi rods. Use a curl-defining cream like Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La to keep the curls intact and frizz-free. Regularly misting the curls with a leave-in conditioner will ensure they stay soft and manageable.
Natural Short Hair with Twists
For those embracing natural short hair, combining twists into your look can add texture and protect your strands during winter. This style is perfect for those with black hair who want to show off their natural curls while keeping their hair safe from winter’s harshness. It suits oval or round face shapes and highlights dark or brown eyes.
This style is achieved by twisting sections of the hair, starting at the roots and working to the ends. Using a twisting gel like TGIN Twist & Define Cream will keep the twists in place and ensure your hair remains moisturized. Maintain the style by sleeping with a satin scarf or bonnet to avoid frizz.
Twisted Updo
A twisted updo is the perfect protective style for formal events during winter. This hairstyle combines elegant twists pulled up into a stylish bun, offering both sophistication and protection from cold, dry air. It suits those with oval or heart-shaped faces and works well for individuals with brown or green eyes, making it an ideal choice for winter weddings or holiday gatherings.
To create this look, section your hair and twist each portion before pulling the twists into an updo. You’ll need a styling gel and bobby pins to secure the twists in place. To keep the style fresh, use a moisture mist like Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner to prevent dryness and maintain shine.
Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists are a great winter protective style that works especially well with natural or 4c hair. These twists are sleek, long, and versatile, perfect for black women looking for a protective style that can be worn both casually and dressed up for special occasions. Ideal for oval or round face shapes, Senegalese twists enhance the beauty of dark or hazel eyes.
To achieve this style, use synthetic hair and twist it into your natural hair using two-strand twists. A twisting gel will help keep the twists neat, while a lightweight oil like Jojoba oil can be applied to the scalp to prevent itching and dryness. Regular scalp massages are also recommended to maintain moisture and stimulate hair growth.
Cornrow Braids
Cornrow braids are a classic protective hairstyle for winter, offering a sleek and low-maintenance option. This style is perfect for women with natural black hair who want to keep their hair safe from the cold. Cornrows are versatile and can be styled into intricate designs or kept simple, making them great for both everyday wear and formal events. This style works well for heart-shaped or oval faces, and pairs beautifully with bold eye makeup.
To create cornrows, the hair is divided into sections and tightly braided close to the scalp. You’ll need a fine-tooth comb, braiding gel, and a leave-in conditioner to keep the braids sleek. For scalp care, use a lightweight oil like argan oil to prevent flaking and dryness.
Crochet Braids
Crochet braids offer a protective style that can be installed quickly and customized with various hair textures, from straight to curly. This hairstyle is a go-to for black women who want to protect their natural hair while still switching up their look for the season. The style works well for those with square or oval faces and highlights hazel or green eyes.
To achieve crochet braids, the natural hair is braided into cornrows, and the extensions are crocheted into the braids using a crochet hook. To maintain this style, moisturize the scalp regularly with a hydrating oil and wrap the hair at night with a satin scarf to keep the braids in place.
Flat Twists
Flat twists are a versatile winter protective hairstyle, perfect for keeping natural hair safe from the cold while looking chic. This style is similar to cornrows but offers a softer, more textured look, making it a great option for casual events or work. Flat twists are best suited for heart-shaped faces, and neutral eye makeup complements the style perfectly.
Creating flat twists involves twisting two strands of hair flat against the scalp. You’ll need a twisting gel and a tail comb to create clean parts. A leave-in conditioner will help keep the twists moisturized, and a lightweight oil like almond oil will prevent your scalp from drying out.
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots offer a bold and creative winter protective style that also doubles as a curl-defining option when taken down. This style is perfect for black women with 4c hair who want a protective option that’s both practical and stylish. Bantu knots are ideal for oval or round face shapes and look stunning with dark or bold eye makeup.
To create Bantu knots, the hair is sectioned and twisted into small knots close to the scalp. You’ll need a twisting cream and bobby pins to hold the knots in place. For maintenance, use a lightweight oil like grapeseed oil to keep the scalp moisturized, and cover the knots with a satin bonnet while sleeping to prevent frizz.
Braided Bob
A braided bob is a stylish and practical winter protective hairstyle, especially for those who prefer braids short. This style is sleek, low-maintenance, and can be worn in both casual and professional settings. The braided bob suits square or heart-shaped faces and enhances brown or hazel eyes.
To achieve this look, the hair is braided into small sections and cut into a bob length. You’ll need braiding hair, edge control, and a sealing oil to keep the style sleek and polished. To maintain the braids, apply a leave-in conditioner spray to keep the scalp moisturized, and wrap the hair at night to prevent frizz.
Twist-Out
A twist-out is a fantastic option for those with natural short hair who want to protect their strands while embracing their curls. This hairstyle offers a voluminous, curly look that works well for casual and formal events alike. The twist-out is great for round or oval face shapes and looks stunning with neutral or warm-toned makeup.
To achieve a twist-out, the hair is sectioned and twisted into small twists, which are then unraveled to create defined curls. A curling cream like Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter will help define the curls, while a leave-in conditioner will keep the hair hydrated and shiny. Regularly mist the hair with water and oil to maintain the curls’ definition.
Low Braided Bun
A low braided bun is a timeless and elegant protective style for winter, perfect for black women looking for a simple yet chic option. This style pulls the hair into a low bun, with braids added for texture and flair. The low braided bun suits heart or square face shapes and pairs beautifully with natural makeup.
To create this look, braid the hair into small sections and pull them into a low bun at the nape of the neck. You’ll need braiding hair, edge control, and bobby pins to secure the bun. For maintenance, a lightweight oil like coconut oil will help keep the braids moisturized, while a leave-in conditioner spray will keep the scalp healthy.
These winter protective hairstyles 2024-2025 offer a variety of ways to keep your natural black hair healthy and stylish during the colder months. Whether you’re into braids long, locs, or natural short hair, there’s a protective style for every preference. Feel free to share your favorite looks and tips in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
