All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
Some things are worth sacrificing for a greathairstyle.
Getty Images
Your edges are not one of them.
Dont get me wrong,protective styleshave plenty of pros.
Theyre a great way to switch up your look while keeping your strands protected from chemical and heat exhaustion.
It’s a process that usually takes years.
It’s a common belief that the tighter the braids, the longer the style will last.
While that may have some truth, all of that tension is no good for your scalp.
First line treatment of traction alopecia is avoidance of traction-causing hairstyles, says Dr. Tolpinrud.
The tension from tight styles can also cause red, inflamed bumps not to mention, its painful.
If your stylist is plaiting your hair too tightly, be vocal and ask them to ease up.
Rinse thoroughly and let the hair air dry.
This will remove the synthetic coating from the hair as well as soften the hair.
So, if youre a fan of ponytails and buns, opt for low hanging iterations of this style.
To be even more precocious, just leave your hair down.
Try different parts if you want to add some variety to your look.
Braids may exacerbate scalp dryness so spray moisturizers and leave-ins can help dive into the scalp better.
Experts also warn against getting protective styles back to back.
Theres no scientifically proven ideal waiting time, but stylists recommend three weeks to a month between protective styles.
Protective styles we love:
100 Years of Black Hair:
