It’s getting to be that time of year when we put the wigs aside and rock twists, cornrows, singles, and braids! 
No matter the style, here are seven simple protective styling tips to follow when rocking your protective hairstyle this summer:
- Take a spray bottle and add: filtered water, leave in conditioner, mousse, vitamin e oil (or any hair oil), and any moisture spray (hair milk, curl spray, refresher spray, whichever) - and shake it up real good. Spray this on your hair daily! Your hair needs water and moisture daily!
- Make sure the protective style does not tug or pull your natural hair as this may lead to follicular damage and hair breakage.
- Always be on the lookout for scalp irritation, excessive dryness, redness, itchiness, and/or flakiness.
- Keep your scalp and hair clean by gently co-washing your hair weekly (every 2 weeks if wearing braids or extensions; shampoo every 2-4 weeks). When this is done properly and consistently, the chances of hair breakage, hair loss, and/or thinning are minimized upon the removal of your protective hairstyle.
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Daily, weekly - whatever “regularly” looks like for you!
- Sleep with a satin bonnet, satin scarf, or satin pillow case. This helps retain moisture. If your satin bonnet has an elastic band, then be sure to tie a satin scarf around your edges FIRST and then put on your bonnet. The elastic band creates friction around your edges, which could lead to thinning, waning edges.
- Deep condition (even with your protective style), read labels, and maintain healthy hair practices in between hair appointments and visits!
Whether it’s a wig, twists, locs, or braids - say hello to extra hydration in the summer! Drink your water, sis and stay hydrated from the inside, out! Moisturize your hair by washing it routinely and be sure to put that hydration back into her by using products that are "moisture rich" or "hydration intense."