Healthy hair is trending, and this time, it’s not just about shine or length.
According to celebrity natural hairstylist Felicia Leatherwood, low-tension styles are becoming the go-to choice for anyone looking to protect their strands while still embracing versatility and beauty.
In a world where tight braids, high ponytails, and heavy installs have dominated for years, the shift toward gentler styling marks a major moment in natural hair care.
Low-tension styles prioritize the health of your scalp and hairline by reducing pulling, strain, and unnecessary pressure. Leatherwood explains that excessive tension is one of the leading causes of thinning edges, breakage, and traction alopecia, issues that disproportionately affect Black women. By choosing styles that allow the hair to relax and breathe, you’re not only protecting your strands but also encouraging long-term growth and thickness.
Popular low-tension options include chunky twists, loose braids, soft puffs, clip-ins, and flexi-rod sets. These styles create shape and definition without forcing the hair into tight, restrictive patterns. Even protective styles can be done with less tension by opting for larger parts, gentler grip, and lightweight extensions. The key is comfort: if your scalp feels sore, tender, or overly tight, the style is doing more harm than good.
Another benefit of low-tension styling is better scalp health. Without constant pulling, the scalp remains more relaxed, less inflamed, and better able to maintain natural oil distribution. This creates the ideal environment for growth. Leatherwood, known for styling stars like Issa Rae and Laverne Cox, often emphasizes the importance of listening to your hair. If it’s breaking or shedding excessively, your style may be too tight.
Low-tension styles also offer flexibility for active lifestyles. They’re easier to maintain, quicker to refresh, and kinder to curls after workouts or long days. They support moisture retention, an essential factor for coily textures, and reduce friction that can lead to frizz or dryness.
Most importantly, choosing low-tension styles is an act of care and preservation. While high-tension looks can be beautiful, they shouldn’t be the norm. Leatherwood’s message is clear: healthy hair always comes first. And with low-tension styling, beauty and protection can coexist effortlessly.
