If you are rocking box braids or twists this summer, check your scalp tension because those styles might be doing more harm than good. High-tension synthetic hair can dry out your natural strands and cause breakage, which totally defeats the purpose of a protective style. Beauty columnist Niya Doyle recommends three low-tension alternatives that keep your hair healthy and looking polished for work.
Mini two-strand twists and mini braids are versatile and can easily last until your next wash day without the tight pull. Low-tension buns like messy or space buns keep your ends protected as long as you do not pull them too tightly. And flat twists use less tension than cornrows while giving you options to style into crowns or elegant buns for corporate settings. The 2026 message is clear: healthy flourishing hair is in and damage for appearances is out.
Do you think wearing natural hair in corporate settings is getting easier this year? Let us know in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.