Think of all the time could save if you didn't spend hours doing your natural hair each week, but instead used a protective style. Hell, I could have become a five-star chef in the time I've spent twisting and blow-drying my strands! But this year, I'm taking a totally new approach to wash day and embracing protective styles. Luckily, #teamnatural on Instagram has provided plenty of updo inspiration to keep me supplied with ideas for months.

A protective style is any hair configuration that keeps your ends safely tucked away. These hairdos require very little daily upkeep and help strands stay moisturized. On top of all that, the looks also promote hair growth since you're not pulling and yanking (causing shedding). An added bonus? Your fingers are less likely to fall into early arthritis due to constant twisting.

Check out these protective styles, ahead.