Styling 4C Hair

What exactly is 4C hair?

4C hair has the most tightly curled curls of any hair pattern, with strands creating tight s's, z's, or coils. Many of the other characteristics of type 4 hair are shared by 4C hair, and of course, individuals with 4C hair might have varied hair densities and porosities, which affects how your hair behaves. However, the following are some of the distinguishing characteristics of 4C hair:

• Hair dries very soon or has a harder time retaining moisture than other curl patterns.

• Individuals can experience significant shrinking, sometimes reaching up to 75%!

• If hair is not properly cared for and detangled on a regular basis, it is prone to tangles and matting.

• Hair is delicate and prone to breaking.

So, how do you deal with the distinct obstacles (while still enjoying the distinct beauty!)?

1. KEEP MOISTURE.

4C curly hair has to be moisturised even if it has low porosity. The kinks and coils of 4C curls prevent sebum (natural oil produced by the scalp) from spreading throughout your hair. This causes your hair to dry out faster than other curl patterns, so you must take additional care to keep it moisturised. Locate a nice moisturiser as well as a nice sealer.


For this purpose, we propose the Hydrating Avocado Kiwi Moisturizer and Avocado Kiwi Oil Blend. Oils such as coconut oil and olive oil, as well as creams such as Shea butter, are great at sealing moisture in your hair. Also, if you wear a protective style, remember to moisturise on a regular basis!

2. CAREFULLY APPLY SHAMPOO 4C TO HAIR.

Yes, you still need to shampoo on a regular basis to keep your scalp and hair clean- but if you have 4C hair, you can go up to 2, 3, or even 4 weeks between washes. Avoid shampoos that contain sulphates or any of the other potentially hazardous compounds found in hair products, and instead use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo like this Hydrating Avocado Shampoo.

If your hair gets dirty more frequently, alternating shampooing with co-washing or rinse with apple cider vinegar after shampooing. To avoid knots, wash your hair in portions.

3. 4C hair detangling techniques

This is especially crucial for 4C girls because your hair's tight curl pattern can force hairs to curl and coil around each other, resulting in tangles. Tangles cause breaking, which slows growth. Detangle moist hair with a wide-toothed comb (do not use a brush!) on a frequent and gentle basis. Use a conditioner to help with the process and add slip. When you detect knots, don't yank; instead, gently take hairs out of the knot with your fingers.

4. DEEP CONDITION.

While most clients should deep condition every two weeks, 4C hair, in particular, benefits from weekly deep conditioning treatments. This will keep your hair healthy, bouncy, and shining while also preventing snagging and tangling.

Styling 4C Hair

5. STAY AWAY FROM OVER-STYLING 4C HAIR.

Styling products cause your hair to dry out, pile up on your scalp, weigh down your hair, and so on. Excessive touching and styling of your hair can also cause breaking. To give your hair a break, choose styles that require fewer styling products or alternate between high and low manipulation styles.

6. HAIR STYLE 4C WITH SHRINKAGE IN MIND.

Shrinkage can be aggravating since it prevents you from noticing development and makes your hair more prone to tangles and single strand knots. Heat-free styles that stretch your hair include twist outs, braid outs, and bantu knots. But don't forget to embrace, enjoy, and have fun with shrinkage! 4C hair lends itself to a plethora of styling options.

4C Styles Suggestions

Twists with two strands
Twist-offs
Bantu knots are African knots.
Puff Afro Buns, also known as space buns, are a type of afro bun.
Clip ins, extensions, or crochet braids can be used to change up your look or add length, just like any other hair type.