The harmattan season can be a nightmare for ladies. That’s when you get to deal with dry skin, cracked lips and hair breakage.
Protective hairstyles are durable, low manipulation styles that keep the hair safe from harsh weather conditions and unnecessary tugging. It is essential to protect your natural hair from the harsh reality of the harmattan season, which is generally hair breakage and split ends. Some ladies prefer to go for wigs but this can easily become tiring. We have our eyes set on a number of lovely hairstyles and we’ll walk you through some of them.
1. Crochet Braids
(Photo: Youtube via Iamtraeh)
Crochet braids became a full blown trend in 2015 and has really evolved over the years. With series of styles to choose from, there is definitely one that’ll suit you. Crotchet braids are notoriously long lasting and easy to style. They also do not take long to install and the best part is you can totally DIY. So don’t miss out on this crotchet frenzy this season.
2. Braids
(Photo: Instagram / Nigerian Braids)
One of the major protective hairstyles for harmattan season is braids. They are the perfect go-to style during harmattan. Braids are awesome, especially the now trending Fulani braids. If properly done, braids can last up to six weeks. There are tons of styles to pick from. Ghana braids/weaves, two strand twists, bob braids, ombre braids etc. Just accessorize with some tribal beads and braid cuffs and you get to look fab while keeping your hair protected from the harsh weather.
3. Hair Knotting/Threading
(Photo: Game Of Fros)
The classic traditional ‘Irun Kiko’ hairstyle that graced our heads and rocked our childhood has made a huge return in the form of the ‘Olori hairstyle‘. This protective hairstyle is very distinct as it gives the entire African woman vibe. It also helps in maintaining the natural hair as the hair strands are entirely wrapped up in the thread. The Olori hairstyle is a perfect way to stretch your natural hair without using heat.
4. Wigs
(Photo: IMDB)
Wigs are definitely the get-out-of-jail free card devoid of stress. They are absolutely amazing for this weather. You get to take them off once you get home and let some cool air ease your burning scalp. Go for a wig that is easy to style and requires no extra manipulation so all you have to do in the morning is brush, put it on and go.
5. Faux Locs
(Photo: Instagram / Anto Lecky)
Faux locs are one of the best protective hairstyles for harmattan season because just like the aforementioned Olori hairstyle, faux locs cover up the entire length of your hair, keeping is protected from the heat and dryness. They are also very durable and can be worn for eight weeks or more. The beauty with properly installed faux locs is that the longer you have them on, the better they look.
If you’re trying this hairstyle for the first time and you need some styling tips, check this out.
(Featured Image: Instagram/@Uzy Paws)