When it comes to strong, healthy roots… your hairstyle might be holding you back. In the worst situations, it might even cause traction alopecia, a temporary form of hair loss. The good news is, it will grow back. The bad news is, it takes a long time.

Growing your hair out often means going through at least one awkward stage and sometimes, the only way to get through it is with everyday ponytails or braids. Unfortunately, when these styles are too tight, they can weaken, break and even wrench out your hair by the roots.

The following hairstyles, on the other hand, are gentler on your scalp and hair and can still keep you on track to meeting your hair goals. Try them out! We know you’re going to love the short and long-term results.

Hairstyles that are good for hair

Long and sleek

No matter what stage your hair is in, wearing it down and letting it naturally grow without the additional tension or stress is always the best way to go. And a little N° 77 Leave-In is the secret to taming those pesky flyaways and annoying frizz. 

However, if you do have to blow dry, allow your hair to air dry as much as possible before you hit it with heat.

Heavy bangs

Most hair loss starts at the crown. By wearing heavy, Bardot-style bangs you can help cover this area while allowing your hair to grow out. Bangs might not seem like they’re for everyone, but this is one trendy look that anyone can pull off.

The lob

Another hot trend right now is the long bob—or “lob.” Cutting your hair to your shoulders or slightly below is the perfect length for sleek and sassy or effortlessly wavy. It’s also an easy way to fight hair damage.No blow drying, no hot irons, just a touch of Hair La Vie Serum and you’ve got a cutting-edge style.

Go natural

When in doubt, embrace what nature gave you and just let your hair do its thing. Many women who routinely wear braids or extensions suffer from traction alopecia because they’re putting excessive stress on their hair and scalp. Rather than fighting your hair, give it a chance to show you what it can do. 

Super short

If you’re looking to grow long and luxurious hair a super short cut might be your first step. Although it may feel like a step in the opposite direction, admitting your scalp is in trouble and taking immediate action is one of the best things you can do for it.

Even though a super short cut can be a dramatic change, it’s a quick and easy one and it gives your hair the fresh start it needs to really grow and flourish.

Plus, a really short cut is super sexy and accents your other feminine attributes by taking the focus away from your hair. Don’t be afraid to give it a shot!

Loose braids

Wait! We just said braids were bad. Let’s take a step back and make sure we’re all on the same page. 

Tight braids that tug at your roots are what’s bad for your hair. Loose braids, on the other hand, can actually be really good for your hair as they give you an “in-between” hairstyle that’s trendy and cute while protecting your hair from pulling and damage.

The key is learning how to manage the braid by using it to cover possible bald spots and avoiding elastic hair bands.

Messy bun

Sleek ponytails tend to pull your hair out at the roots and the tight bands needed to keep them in place only weaken your hair. 

This is a hairstyle that’s hard to let go of because it’s not just easy—it lasts all day and can keep your hair in place through heavy workouts, stressful business events, and running errands.

We understand completely and know it’s hard to let go of your sleek, high ponytails, but you can do it, especially once you master the messy bun. This style gives you just as much flexibility in the day. Plus, it’s super quick and easy—and we think it’s pretty cute.

Final thoughts

It’s hard to admit that your hairstyle is what’s to blame for your ongoing hair damage. Even worse when you realize you’ve put your hair through so much that it’s actually evolved into traction alopecia. 

Luckily, these are only temporary setbacks because your hair will recover. You’ve already taken the first vital step in realizing that you need to adopt a new style. Now it’s time to try out a few.

While you’re working on that new do, we also suggest feeding your hair with this delicious recipe so you can strengthen those locks from the inside out. Try this Mashed Lentil Wrap with Veggies recipe to load your hair up on the protein and vitamins it needs to start growing long and strong.