How To Identify and Care for Type 4 Hair

How To Identify and Care for Type 4 Hair

Packed with personality, type 4 hair is beautifully bold and full of texture. With its tight coils and rich volume, this hair type thrives with the right care and attention. Type 4 hair is identifiable by its zigzag patterns, shrinkage, and natural density. From 4A’s soft coils to the tightness of 4C curls, each subtype shines uniquely, and when maintained properly, type 4 hair stays healthy, strong, and radiant. Type 4 hair is to be embraced, and once you’ve taken that first step, you’ll have no problem mastering its care.

Ready to unlock your curl power? Let’s dive into how to identify and care for your crown.

What are the Type 4 Hair Subtypes

Type 4 hair is divided into three subtypes: 4A, 4B, and 4C. Each one carries its own unique texture and curl pattern, which is easily identifiable:

  • Type 4A: This hair has well-defined, springy S-shaped coils about the size of a crochet needle. It tends to retain moisture better than other 4 types and has visible curl definition with a soft texture.
  • Type 4B: With a Z-shaped pattern, 4B hair bends in sharp angles rather than curling or coiling. It’s wool-like in texture, has less definition than 4A, and is more prone to shrinkage and dryness.
  • Type 4C: The tightest and most delicate of the three, 4C hair has no defined curl pattern, shrinks up to 75%, and is prone to dryness and breakage. It’s beautifully dense and requires lots of moisture and gentle care.

How to Care for Type 4 hair

Caring for your curly type 4 hair is key to keeping it flourishing. Each subtype benefits from moisture, protection, and gentle handling. Here's how to keep your coils healthy and thriving:

  1. Moisturize Often: Use a leave-in conditioner, water-based moisturizer, or use the LOC/LCO method (Liquid, Oil, Cream) to lock in hydration.
  2. Cleanse Gently: Wash with a sulfate-free shampoo or co-wash to avoid stripping natural oils. Clean your scalp regularly to prevent buildup. (Sulfate shampoos can be used minimally.)
  3. Deep Condition Weekly: Use a rich deep conditioner to restore moisture and strengthen strands.
  4. Detangle Carefully: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, preferably when your hair is wet and conditioned.
  5. Protective Styling: Try braids, twists, or buns to minimize breakage and retain length, especially at night. Continue to add moisture to your hair, especially in warmer climates.
  6. Sleep with Protection: Use a satin/silk bonnet or pillowcase to reduce friction and moisture loss.
  7. Trim Regularly: Trim every 8–12 weeks to prevent split ends and promote healthy growth.

Be consistent with your hair care routine, and your curls will thank you for it.

Invest in Your Hair

Investing in your hair isn’t just about money; it’s about time, too. Take the time to understand your hair type and experiment with different products and routines; see which works best for you. You may find that your hair thrives when you use a particular brand’s product, or washing your hair just once a week makes it flourish. Lastly, find a qualified hairstylist who specializes in curly type 4 hair to prevent unwanted damage.

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