Protect Your Curls In Style: 15 Sun-Safe Hairstyles

Summer’s here, and while I love soaking up those rays, my curls definitely don’t share the enthusiasm!

After years of watching my hair become dry and brittle from sun exposure, I’ve experimented with countless protective styles.

The sun’s harsh UV rays can strip moisture from curly hair faster than you can say ‘frizz ball.’

Today I’m sharing my top curl-saving hairstyles that shield your precious locks while keeping you looking fabulous poolside or at the beach.

1. High Puff with Scarf Wrap

Nothing beats the classic high puff when temperatures soar! I gather all my curls on top of my head, securing them with a satin scrunchie to prevent breakage. The game-changer is wrapping a colorful silk scarf around the base.

This style keeps hair off my neck and shoulders while the scarf adds an extra layer of UV protection for my edges and scalp. My curls stay bouncy at the top while the most vulnerable parts remain covered. For extra protection, I mist my puff with a UV-protective hair spray before heading out. This style works for all curl types and lengths that can be gathered upward, from shoulder-length to longer locks.

2. Braided Crown Glory

My go-to beach day style! I section my damp hair and create two large braids that wrap around my head like a halo. This regal style keeps every strand tucked away from harmful rays. The beauty of a braided crown is how it distributes tension evenly across your scalp. No single section bears too much stress, which means less breakage later. I secure any loose ends with bobby pins that match my hair color.

For curly hair types that shrink significantly, I apply a leave-in conditioner before braiding to make the process smoother. This protective style lasts several days with proper nighttime care, making it perfect for vacation when you don’t want to restyle daily.

3. Low Bun with Wide-Brim Hat

My quick fix for unexpected sunny days! I gather my curls at the nape of my neck, twist them into a loose bun, and secure with a few pins. The low position means I can comfortably wear a wide-brim hat without awkward bumps or pressure points. This combo provides double protection – the bun keeps strands contained while the hat shields both hair and scalp from direct sunlight. I always choose hats with UPF fabric for maximum coverage.

The gentle positioning of this style prevents tension headaches that can come from tighter styles. When I remove my hat later, I don’t have weird dents or flattened sections. Plus, the loose nature of the bun means my curl pattern stays intact for when I want to let my hair down again.

4. Flat Twists into a Bun

Flat twists create a gorgeous scalp-protecting pattern while directing hair into a secure bun. I start at my hairline, twisting backward in sections until all hair converges at my chosen bun location – usually mid-head for balanced comfort.

The beauty of this style lies in its versatility. I can make the twists chunky for a quick style or super fine for a more intricate look that lasts longer. Either way, my scalp stays shielded from harsh rays.

After swimming, this style holds up remarkably well. The twists help maintain some definition even when wet, unlike loose styles that can become a tangled mess. I finish with a lightweight oil on my exposed scalp between the twists for added moisture and protection.

5. Box Braids Under a Sun Hat

Box braids saved my curls during my beach vacation last year! These classic protective braids keep every strand safely tucked away while the added weight prevents them from frizzing in humidity. Adding a sun hat provides crucial protection for my scalp and hairline.

I opt for medium-sized braids that aren’t too heavy yet still provide good coverage. The versatility amazes me – I can wear them down under my hat for a casual look or gather them into a low ponytail for activities.

Unlike some protective styles, box braids let me fully enjoy water activities without worry. They dry relatively quickly and maintain their neat appearance throughout the day. Just remember to rinse with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or salt that can cause dryness.

6. Chunky Twist Updo

When I’m short on time but need serious sun protection, chunky twists gathered into an updo save the day! I section my hair into 8-10 parts, twist each section from root to tip, then pin them up in a random-yet-intentional pattern.

The thickness of each twist means this style comes together quickly – no tiny sections to manage. I tuck the ends securely to prevent them from drying out, which happens faster than the rest of your hair in sun exposure.

My favorite part about this style is how it showcases the natural texture and dimension of curly hair. The twists create beautiful definition that looks intentional and polished. For extended sun exposure, I tuck a few decorative hairpins with UV-reflective elements into the updo for extra protection in style.

7. Cornrow Ponytail Protection

Cornrows leading into a high ponytail offer the perfect balance of scalp protection and style flexibility. I have my hair cornrowed from the front to about mid-head, where they all converge into a ponytail of my natural curls.

The cornrowed portion shields my most sun-sensitive areas – the hairline and part lines. Meanwhile, the ponytail section can be left curly or further protected with a scrunchie wrap. During intense sun, I sometimes add a lightweight scarf over the cornrows for complete coverage.

This half-and-half approach gives me the security of a protective style with the joy of still showcasing some of my natural texture. The cornrows also catch sweat before it runs down my face during outdoor activities, making this my go-to for hiking and tennis.

8. Halo Braid with Scarf Accent

My halo braid with scarf technique creates a crown of protection around my entire head. I braid my hair in one continuous plait that circles my head, then weave a thin silk scarf through the braid for added sun protection and a pop of color.

The complete coverage this style provides is unmatched – not a single strand is left exposed to harmful rays. Even better, it distributes tension so evenly that I can wear it comfortably all day without headaches.

On especially hot days, I dampen the scarf slightly before weaving it in. As it dries, it creates a gentle cooling effect against my scalp. This style requires some practice but becomes quicker with each attempt. The compliments make the effort worthwhile – people always ask if I had it professionally done!

9. Pineapple Updo with Satin-Lined Cap

The pineapple updo paired with a satin-lined cap creates the ultimate casual sun protection combo. I loosely gather my curls at the highest point of my head, secure with a satin scrunchie, then cover with my favorite satin-lined baseball cap.

This combo works because the pineapple preserves my curl pattern while the satin lining prevents friction and moisture loss. The cap’s brim shields my face and front hairline from direct sun exposure, addressing the areas most prone to damage.

For longer outings, I tuck a few ice cubes into a plastic bag and place it against my neck just below the cap. This helps keep me cool without compromising my style. The beauty of this approach is how quickly it comes together – perfect for those last-minute beach invites!

10. Braided Top Knot Security

The braided top knot combines the security of braids with the elevation of a high bun. I section my hair into 4-6 parts, braid each section upward toward my crown, then gather the braided ends into a neat knot on top.

This approach keeps my neck and ears completely free, which feels amazing during hot weather. The braided portions resist humidity better than loose hair, maintaining their neat appearance throughout the day.

A major plus is how this style showcases hair accessories. I often add decorative pins or cuffs to the braids for extra flair. The height of this style also creates a nice elongating effect for my face shape while providing maximum sun protection for my strands and scalp.

11. Side-Swept Flat Twists Elegance

Side-swept flat twists create an asymmetrical style that’s protective and eye-catching. I part my hair deeply to one side, then create horizontal flat twists going toward the lower side, where I gather everything into a tucked roll or bun.

The beauty of this style is how it protects while creating the illusion of loose, styled hair on one side. The flat twists shield my scalp from sun damage while the gathered section keeps ends tucked safely away from drying elements.

For special occasions, I sometimes add small fresh flowers or decorative pins along the twists. The style holds up remarkably well in wind, making it ideal for outdoor weddings or garden parties. A light spritz of UV-protective spray adds an invisible shield of protection for extended sun exposure.

12. Bantu Knots Sun Shield

Bantu knots offer 360-degree protection while celebrating traditional African hairstyling. I section my hair into squares, twist each section tightly around itself, and secure the resulting knots with bobby pins that match my hair color.

The beauty of Bantu knots is how they completely encase the hair strands within themselves, creating a natural shield against environmental damage. I can adjust the size based on my plans – smaller knots for longer wear, larger ones for a quicker style or if I want to unleash defined curls later.

This style showcases the versatility of textured hair while providing serious protection. After swimming, I rinse my knots with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to the exposed scalp areas between knots. The style typically lasts 3-4 days with proper nighttime protection.

13. Protective Wig with Closure

On days when I want maximum protection with minimum styling time, my curly closure wig becomes my best friend. I cornrow my natural hair underneath, apply a moisture-sealing product, then cap it with a breathable wig cap before adding my curly unit.

The key is choosing a wig with a realistic closure that doesn’t require leave-out hair. This keeps every strand of my natural hair safely tucked away from sun exposure. I opt for human hair wigs with curly textures that match my own pattern for the most natural look.

Modern wigs with lace closures create a surprisingly natural hairline. I secure mine with wig grip bands rather than adhesives when possible, allowing better airflow to my scalp. For extended outdoor events, I still wear a wide-brim hat with my wig for that extra layer of sun protection.

14. Headwrap Over Loose Twists

My favorite low-manipulation protective style combines loose twists with a full headwrap. I create medium-sized two-strand twists throughout my hair, then completely cover them with a breathable cotton or silk headwrap.

This combination gives my hair a complete break from styling stress while providing total sun protection. The twists underneath maintain moisture and prevent tangling, while the wrap blocks harmful UV rays from reaching my strands or scalp.

I love experimenting with different wrapping techniques – from simple turbans to more elaborate styles with knots and tucks. The versatility makes this my go-to for week-long beach trips. At night, I simply refresh my edges with a light moisturizer while keeping the twists intact under a satin bonnet.

15. Tucked-In Roll with Headband

The tucked-in roll paired with a wide fabric headband creates a vintage-inspired look with modern sun protection benefits. I smooth my hair back, roll it under from the ends toward the nape, tuck and pin securely, then add a wide fabric headband at the hairline.

This style works wonderfully for medium-length curly hair that can be temporarily stretched. The complete coverage keeps strands protected while the headband adds extra security for the fragile hairline area. I choose headbands with UPF-rated fabrics for maximum sun protection.

For a beach-ready variation, I spritz my hair with a salt-free conditioning spray before rolling to add moisture protection. The finished look pairs perfectly with oversized sunglasses for a glamorous poolside style that keeps every strand safely tucked away from damaging elements.