Protective Styles You Can Do in Under 3 Hours

We all love a good protective style, but sometimes finding the time to sit in a stylist's chair for hours just isn’t possible. Life happens, we know! So whether you're pressed for time or are simply in need of a rejuvenating change, we have you covered! In this article, we share three protective hairstyles that can be done in under three hours.  

1. Jumbo Box Braids 

Source: Pinterest 

If you're looking for a quick and stunning hairstyle that also offers protection, jumbo box braids are it! They effortlessly give you a bold and beautiful look. Ideal for those days when you just want to lay your edges and go. If you don’t already know how to braid your own hair, you’re going to need to visit a salon for this style but don’t worry, you should be done in just 2* hours. 

Bantu knots 

Source: Byrdie 

Bantu Knots are a protective style that can give you a cute but edgy look while safeguarding your hair. You can choose to have small little knots like knobs or bigger knots. It all rests on your confidence, the versatility you want and the amount of hair fibre accessible to you. 

Keen to try it out home, here’s a guide to help:  

1. Moisturise and Detangle: Start with clean, detangled hair. Apply a hydrating leave-in conditioner and follow up with MPL Vitamin E Hair Oil to ensure your hair is well-moisturised. 

1. Section Your Hair: Use a rat-tail comb to divide your hair into small, even sections. The number of sections will depend on the size of the knots you prefer. 

1. Create the Knots: Take one section of hair, twist it from the root to the tip, and then wrap the twisted hair around itself to form a small knot. Tuck the end of the twist under the knot to secure it, or use a small hairpin if needed. 

1. Repeat: Continue twisting and knotting each section of hair until your entire head is covered with Bantu knots. 

The Classic Two-Strand Twists 

Source: Reddit 

Two-strand twists are a timeless protective style that is quick, easy and looks good on the fellas too! Not only do they protect your hair from breakage, but they are also very versatile and can be styled in various ways. 

And if you want to give this style a try at home, here’s how you do it: 

1. Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, detangled, and moisturised hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner and a light oil like MPL Pure Coconut Oil to lock in moisture. 

1. Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into small, manageable sections. The smaller the sections, the more twists you’ll have, but they’ll also last longer. 

1. Twist Away: Take each section and split it into two. Twist the two strands around each other from root to tip. Secure the ends with a small bit of gel if needed. 

1. Style and Go: Once all your hair is twisted, you can leave it as is, style it into an updo, or accessorise with beads and clips. 

There you have it – three fabulous protective styles that you can get done in under three hours. Whether you’re braiding, knotting, or twisting, these styles will keep your hair protected and looking chic. Remember, protective styling is all about keeping your hair healthy and allowing it to grow away from the demands of everyday styling.  

Which style are you trying out? Remember to tag us on IG @mplhair 

Love MPL,  

Your Hair Doctor 🧡