Your protective-style care shopping guide

*Based on a 3rd-party consumer salon study with participant in protective styles.

FAQs about Protective Hair Products

What is protective hair styling?

Protective hair styling includes hairstyles like braids, twists and updos that shield your natural hair from damage caused by environmental factors, heat and over-manipulation.

Protective styles are especially beneficial for natural hair, as they allow your strands to rest and retain moisture. Popular protective styles include:

What should I use before installing a protective style?

Preparing your hair before installing a protective style is essential for maintaining its health and strength. Follow these steps to get your hair ready:

• Cleanse your scalp and hair: Use a clarifying shampoo for buildup to remove dirt, oil and product residue.

• Deep condition: Apply a deep conditioner or hair mask to restore moisture and strengthen your strands.

• Moisturize: Use a leave-in conditioner for braids to hydrate your hair and make it more manageable.

• Seal in moisture: Apply a lightweight hair oil for protective styles to lock in hydration and add shine.

• Protect your scalp: Massage a scalp oil for braids to nourish your scalp and prevent dryness during the styling process.

By following these steps, you’ll create a strong foundation for your protective style.

What is the best oil for protective styles and braids?

The best oils for protective styles and braids are lightweight and non-greasy, ensuring your hair and scalp stay moisturized without buildup. Look for oils that:

• Promote hair growth: Options like argan oil, castor oil and almond oil are excellent for nourishing the scalp and encouraging growth.

• Soothe the scalp: Tea tree oil and peppermint oil can help reduce itchiness and irritation.

• Add shine: Jojoba oil and grapeseed oil are great for enhancing the natural luster of your braids.

Explore Ulta Beauty’s collection of scalp oils and serums to find the perfect match for your protective style.

How do you maintain protective styles and braids?

Maintaining protective styles is essential for keeping your hair healthy and your style looking polished. Here are some tips:

Moisturize regularly:

• Use a braid refresher sprayor moisturizer for braids to hydrate your hair and scalp.

• Apply a scalp serum for growth to nourish your roots and prevent dryness.

Control frizz:

• Use a braid styling mousse to smooth flyaways and keep your braids neat.

• Apply a best edge control product to lay down edges and create a sleek finish.

Protect your style at night:

• Sleep with a silk bonnet for natural hair or a bonnet for braids to reduce friction and preserve your style.

Cleanse gently:

• Wash your scalp with a clarifying shampoo for buildup to remove dirt and oil without disrupting your braids.

• Follow up with a leave-in conditioner for braids to restore moisture.

By following these steps, you can extend the life of your protective style while keeping your hair healthy.

What are the best products for braids and protective styles at Ulta Beauty?

Ulta Beauty offers a wide range of products specifically designed for protective styles and braids. These include:

• Scalp oils for braids: Nourish your scalp and promote hair growth.

• Braid refresher sprays: Keep your braids hydrated and fresh.

• Leave-in conditioners for braids: Restore moisture and prevent dryness.

• Edge control for natural hair: Smooth edges and create a polished look.

• Silk bonnets for braids: Protect your style while you sleep.

• Braid styling mousse: Tame frizz and keep your braids looking neat.

With these products, you can maintain your protective styles and keep your hair healthy and beautiful.

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