Why Your Hair Needs a Break: The Power of Protective Styles

April 6, 2025

Afro-textured hair is strong, stunning, and versatile—but it’s also delicate. With constant exposure to styling tools, tight weaves, and harsh weather, it’s easy for our hair to become dry, brittle or prone to breakage. That’s where protective styles come in—not as a trend, but as essential self-care.

What are protective styles?

These are hairstyles that reduce manipulation and shield your ends from friction and the environment. Braids, cornrows, twists, wigs, locs and buns are all great examples. Protective styles help retain length, lock in moisture, and give your strands time to breathe.

Why they matter for your hair health:

Afro hair naturally loses moisture faster than straighter hair types. Overstyling, frequent combing, and tight hairstyles can stress the hair shaft. Protective styles minimise this by reducing tension, preventing split ends, and protecting fragile edges—especially when installed and maintained correctly.

Best practices for protective styling:

  • Moisturise your hair and scalp before installing any style.
  • Use lightweight oils like coconut, avocado, or jojoba to seal moisture.
  • Avoid tight styles that pull on your hairline.
  • Wash your scalp and refresh your style regularly with braid sprays and conditioners.
  • Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to protect your hair overnight.

How long is too long?

Styles like braids or twists should generally be worn for 4–8 weeks max. Leaving them in too long can cause matting and tension, undoing all your hair’s progress. Between installs, treat your hair to a deep condition and scalp massage.
We’ve got you covered

At House of Cosmetics, we offer the best in protective styling care—from edge control gels and hair growth oils to deep conditioners and leave-in sprays.


Whether you're prepping for a style or maintaining it, we’re here to support your hair journey every step of the way. Browse our natural hair collection and give your strands the break they deserve.

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The Secret to Glowing Skin? A Proper Body Care Routine for African Skin Tones

April 20, 2025
When we talk about skincare, most of the attention is on the face. But your body deserves just as much care, especially if you want to maintain an even, radiant tone from head to toe. For those with melanin-rich skin, body care is more than a routine. It is a celebration of self. Here is how to build a simple and effective body care regimen tailored for darker skin: 1. Cleanse with care Start with a gentle body wash or soap that hydrates while cleansing. Look for nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter or almond milk. These help maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier and prevent that dull, dry feeling. 2. Exfoliate weekly Darker skin can show discolouration or rough texture more easily when dead skin builds up. Use a body scrub once or twice a week to remove impurities, smooth the skin and reveal a natural glow. Be gentle during exfoliation to avoid irritation. 3. Moisturise daily Hydration is essential. Apply a rich moisturiser or body milk immediately after your shower to lock in moisture. Ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter and glycerin are excellent for keeping dark skin soft, smooth and nourished. 4. Treat problem areas Have dry elbows, knees or stretch marks? Use targeted creams with vitamin E, aloe vera or rich oils to soothe and repair those areas. Products developed for melanin-rich skin often work more effectively for uneven tone or textured spots. 5. Use sun protection Yes, your body needs sun protection too. If you are spending time outdoors, apply an SPF lotion to exposed areas to protect your skin and keep your complexion even.  At House of Cosmetics, we have carefully selected a body care range designed for your skin’s unique needs. From moisturisers to treatments, everything we offer is made to help your skin feel loved and look its best.

The Best Skincare Routine for Melanin-Rich Skin

April 11, 2025
Melanin-rich skin is naturally resilient, but that doesn’t mean it’s low maintenance. In fact, African skin is more prone to issues like hyperpigmentation, uneven tone and dehydration. With the right routine, your skin can thrive and glow year-round.