Finding hair styles that I feel good in…
and help protect my hair has been a journey to say the least! For those who are new to the natural game, protective styles are defined as: “simply a style that protects the ends of your hair, helping to decrease tangling, shedding and breakage” (Mademnoire.com). I must say that protective styles are probably one of the main reasons why my hair has consistently maintained it’s length and thickness. There are so many options for protective styles, but a style that I’ve been LOVING are natural updos. I’ve you’ve never seen them, or think you have not, think of Janelle Monae and her signature look. Her natural updos are complete #hairgoals.
In practicing on my own hair,
I’ve recently discovered the versatility in sculpting beautiful natural updos. These styles remind me of handcrafted, textured works of art. There are a few different ways to sculpt natural updos. I’ve listed a few of my favorites below:
Twists: Updos constructed with individual twists still in tact, tucked to form a twisted, tucked style.
Twist Out: The trick to a successful twisted out updo, is to ensure that your twists are very defined. I like to use a defining leave in conditioner, specifically conditioner creams that are heavy. However, it mainly depends on your preference and what your hair takes well to. My hair tends to do well with heaver creams, because of the thickness of my hair. Once your twists are defined, you will need to twist and tuck girl!
Blown Out: Updos that are created simply on blown out hair create a very voluminous style.(No images are owned by me)
If you tried an updo out, leave a comment on your tips to creating the perfect look!
Enjoy!