I had one of those in-between weeks where my protective style is out, but I’m not ready to commit to a full wash day and install again. So in this video I’m sharing a super quick protective style inspo that’s cute, cost effective, and actually realistic when you’re only trying to make your hair last a few days. I was debating straight backs vs. braids at the front with the back in a bun, and we ended up going for medium-sized cane rows in the front with the back pulled up. I kept it really simple on purpose: no gel through my hair because I’m doing my hair again soon and I’m not about to re-wash after wash day took me a hot minute. I used Redken Acidic Bonding Leave-In Conditioner for slip and moisture while I braided, then finished it off with a big scrunchie to give the style a bit more “done” energy. To make it look fresh, I added a tiny bit of As I Am rosemary oil to my scalp and only used gel on my edges (because edges are easy to wash). The braids weren’t my best work, but the whole look came together—and it took me about 20 minutes, which is exactly the point.