An essential powered by Cécred’s Protection Collection.
Protective styles are an integral part of many hair journeys. They can be a powerful tool for length retention, breakage prevention, and reclaiming time. But here's the truth: protective doesn’t mean passive. Styles like knotless braids, twists, and wigs can give your hair a break from daily manipulation, but they aren’t a free pass to abandon your haircare routine. Hydration, gentle cleansing, and thoughtful prep and takedown are non-negotiables if your goal is real protection.
That’s where Cécred’s Protection Collection comes in. Designed for every phase from pre-style prep to in-style maintenance, and even post-style recovery, this line makes caring for your hair during protective styling simple, intentional, and effective.
How to Maintain Hair in a Protective Style
First things first: Cleanse gently, but consistently. Use Scalp Refreshing Spray to break down buildup and dead skin without disturbing your style. Perfect for braided styles or wigs,* it gives your scalp a clean, refreshed feeling between wash days. Next, be sure to moisturize with intention. Hair still gets thirsty in any protective style, so use Hair & Scalp Balm as needed to soothe the scalp, lock in moisture, and soften dry ends. This is especially important in feed-ins, box braids, and twists. Lastly, apply Oil Ritual as a monthly treatment or pre-style massage to strengthen strands and prevent dryness.
And don’t let the removal process undo all your progress. Mist your hair with Detangling Spray before and during take down to add slip, soften buildup, and prevent mechanical breakage. It’s also a great weekly addition to your routine to reduce tension near the roots and keep hair pliable.
*Do not use while in wigs bonded with any type of adhesive.
How Long Do You Keep Protective Styles In?
Your hair still grows, sheds, and moves under your style, which means you can’t keep it in forever.
Here are some general recommendations:
- No longer than 6–8 weeks, depending on your install method and overall hair health.
- After take down, reach for Detangling Spray first, then use Detoxifying Shampoo to reset your scalp and strands for your next phase.
Protective styles are meant to protect, not neglect, so be mindful of how long you’re keeping your protective styles in.
How Often Should You Moisturize Hair in a Protective Style?
This varies by hair type, porosity, and environment, but moisture is essential across the board. Before your install, apply Hair & Scalp Balm to ends and edges for extra nourishment. During the style, regularly refresh your scalp as needed with Scalp Refreshing Spray. This is especially beneficial after workouts or exposure to heat. Use Oil Ritual or Hair & Scalp Balm weekly as a targeted scalp massage to prevent dryness or style-related itchiness, flaking, or tension.. If you have fine or low-porosity hair, you may need lighter, less frequent application, but thick or coily textures will benefit from more regular hydration and sealing.
What Is the Healthiest Protective Style?
The healthiest styles prioritize your hair’s health, not just aesthetics.
That means the ideal style is low tension and doesn’t tug or pinch at your edges or crown, Allows scalp access so you can easily cleanse and moisturize, and begins with freshly washed and conditioned hair.
Top contenders include:
- Knotless braids
- Loose twists
- Wigs with breathable caps
- Cornrows that aren’t too tight or too small
Pro Tip: Before installing any style, prep with Detoxifying Shampoo for a super-strength detox and a dose of Oil Ritual to hydrate and fortify strands from the inside out.