Is the phrase "simple hairstyle" an oxymoron? It can feel that way sometimes — especially if you're trying one you found in a YouTube tutorial. What may seem easy and foolproof in theory can wind up feeling like teaching a fish to ride a bike in practice. And things can get especially tricky if you're trying a protective style on naturally kinky, curly, or coily hair.
Here's the thing: Protective hairstyles must look good and be built to last, which can be somewhat unnerving for people. But that doesn't mean it's impossible to do, even if you're not exactly Nikki Nelms with the hair skills. Whether you're looking to create a cute flat-twisted style, jumbo twists, or anything else in between, we found 11 of the internet's best tutorials for simple protective hairstyles that anyone can accomplish, especially if you're at home and have some extra time on your hands.
1. Fashionable Flat Twists
Flat twists are a versatile and easy hairstyle to accomplish at home, and YouTuber CurlyCandi uses a single product (gel) to create not one, not two, but three twisted looks, including a halo crown she adorns with gold clasps.
2. A 10-Minute Updo
Got 10 minutes? Create this easy natural updo in that time. All you need is a little something for moisture, a comb, and some pins to achieve this hairstyle that only looks complicated.
3. A Long Pony and Flat Twists
If you don't already have one, just know that the drawstring ponytail is an absolute must for your beauty stash. Here, it's used to boost a truly lovely twisted look. The hair is first flat twisted all around the head and then gathered in the back, before being wrapped up in a drawstring ponytail. It's easy to achieve, and most importantly, it's a good excuse to whip out the ol' pony.
4. Banged, Bunned, and Beautiful
If you're killing time at home, wondering if whether or not you should get bangs, this high, slicked-down bun with a faux fringe is a great way to test the waters. Put those scissors away, you won't need them... that is until you're ready to fully commit.
5. Double Buns
We love a double bun look, especially when it's just a little bit extra. This style's elaborate pattern is achieved by twisting the hair in sections, then criss-crossing the twists over each other before gathering them in two ponytails. Loop 'em into buns and you're done.
6. Jumbo Twists
Sitting in a chair for hours getting long twists or box braids done can be a literal pain in the ass. Not here — in under two hours, you can have your hair in long, waist-length twists with this simple and easy tutorial. Just be sure to have some braiding hair on hand.
7. Rainbow Johnson Realness
Leila of FusionofCultures calls this look "Simply Rainbow" after Tracee Ellis Ross's character Rainbow Johnson from Black-ish, and she's not far off with that nomenclature. You, too, can be a supermom like Bow (or at least try to be) with this sophisticated braided bun that looks a lot like a style she would wear.
8. Princess Crown
Embrace the princess or queen within you with this gorgeous updo. The hairstyle is easy to execute: Put your hair in two braided pigtails on either side of your head, then pin them up to make them look like a crown. You'll have folks bowing down to you with every step.
9. Mini Twists
Listen up, short-haired naturalistas who don't want to deal with extensions: This flat-twist/mini-twist hybrid will make your T.W.A. (teeny-weeny Afro) Totally Wicked Awesome.
10. Cornrow-Free Crochet Braids
Love the look of crochet braids, but lack the ability to cornrow or flat-twist? You could get out your old doll collection and practice, or use this beginner-friendly crochet braid tutorial from Msnaturally Mary to get your dream crocheted look.
11: Cornrows and a Curly Puff
This look, created by 1nOnlyCash, embraces classic straightback cornrows while also allowing you to let your natural curl pattern shine. It's simple: Braid your hair in a few cornrows, leaving the ends loose. Then, pull those ends into a puff and use a spray bottle of water and curl cream to define your pattern.
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