Dealing with type 4 hair can sometimes be a struggle, but over time, it starts to get easier. Anyone with curly locks knows that caring for type 4 hair is all about moisture, patience, and protection. As the most delicate of the hair types, these tight coils and beautiful volume need consistent hydration to stay healthy and strong. Whether your texture is 4A, 4B, or 4C, a proper routine that includes gentle cleansing, deep conditioning, and regular moisturizing can make a world of difference, and utilizing protective styles, avoiding heat, and practicing low-manipulation methods can help retain length and reduce breakage. Type 4 hair thrives with proper care and is the epitome of natural beauty and versatility.
Type 4 Hair Explained
Type 4 hair is known for its tight curls and coils and is often referred to as kinky or coily hair. It is the most textured of all hair types and is divided into three subcategories: 4A, 4B, and 4C. Type 4A features defined, springy coils with an S-pattern, while 4B has a fluffier, zig-zag pattern with less defined curls. Type 4C is the tightest of the curl patterns, with minimal visible definition and maximum shrinkage. Type 4 hair is incredibly versatile and can be worn in a wide variety of styles, from twist-outs and puffs to braids and weaves. However, this hair type is incredibly delicate and susceptible to dryness. Because of this, moisture retention is essential for maintaining healthy, strong, and soft hair, compensating for the natural oils that struggle to make it down the hair shaft from the scalp.So, let’s cover the steps of a moisturizing routine that will help your hair flourish with strength and beauty:
Step 1:
Aim to have a wash day every 1-2 weeks with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo or co-wash to avoid stripping away natural oils. Wash your hair in sections and focus on the scalp as well as the strands.
Step 2: Deep Condition
Once the shampoo has been thoroughly removed, follow up with a rich, deep conditioner to soften, deeply hydrate, and strengthen the hair. Detangle with a wide-toothed comb and leave for 25-30 minutes before rinsing, allowing the conditioner to penetrate the hair.
Step 3: Lock in Moisture
Follow up with the LOC (Liquid, Oil, Cream) or LCO (Liquid, Cream, Oil) method: first apply a leave-in conditioner, then a cream-based moisturizer, and finally a natural oil like coconut, jojoba, or castor oil to seal in hydration.
Step 4: Refresh
In between wash days, refresh your hair by lightly spritzing it with water or a water-based refresher spray, then reapply your cream and oil as needed.
Step 5: Protection
To retain moisture overnight, sleep with a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase to prevent moisture loss from friction. Protective styles such as braids or twists can also help reduce daily manipulation and retain hydration.
Step 7: Consistency
Be consistent with your routine. Keeping your hair hydrated will see it become soft, manageable, and more resilient to breakage. It will remain healthy and retain its length. Moisture is the foundation for thriving curls and coils. Learn more at Heat Free Hair today.
