If you’ve ever tried to decode hair care articles or product descriptions, you’ve probably encountered the hair typing system. This system, popularized by hairstylist Andre Walker, sorts hair textures into categories. The intention is to help you understand your hair’s specific needs and find the best ways to care for and style it.
Type 4 hair is characterized by its tightly coiled texture. It’s often prone to shrinkage and dryness, requiring extra moisture and gentle handling.
This article will focus specifically on type 4c hair. We’ll explore its unique characteristics, how to care for it properly, and some styling tips to help you embrace your natural texture.
What is Type 4c hair?
Type 4c hair is part of the Type 4 hair family, which is characterized by tightly coiled and textured hair. But what exactly sets 4c apart?
Defining characteristics
- Tightly coiled texture. Type 4c hair has the tightest curl pattern of all the Type 4 hair types. The curls can range from zig-zag shapes to coils so tightly packed that it can be hard to see the individual curls.
- Significant shrinkage. If you have Type 4c hair, you’re probably familiar with shrinkage! This hair type can shrink up to 75% or more of its actual length.
- Fine to coarse strands. The thickness of the individual strands can vary quite a bit. Some people have fine, delicate strands while others have strands that are coarse and wiry.
- Density and porosity. Type 4c hair is often very dense, which can give it a thick appearance. The porosity, or how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture, can also vary. However, it tends to be more porous, making it prone to dryness and breakage.
Distinguishing 4c from 4b hair
Type 4b and 4c hair are similar, but here are the key differences:
- Curl definition. Type 4b hair has more of a defined “Z” shape curl, while Type 4c hair typically has a less defined curl pattern.
- Appearance. Type 4b hair tends to clump together more easily, while Type 4c hair may not naturally clump as much.
The science of 4c hair: Understanding its unique needs
4c hair is beautiful, but it has unique qualities that require special care. Here’s a little about the science behind it:
Moisture Retention
4c hair is prone to dryness. The tight coils make it difficult for natural oils from the scalp to travel down the hair shaft and keep it moisturized. This is why it’s important to moisturize 4c hair regularly.
Porosity and Product Absorption
Hair porosity is a measure of how well your hair absorbs and holds moisture. People with 4c hair can have low or high porosity. Low porosity hair has a hard time absorbing moisture, but once it’s in, it stays in. High porosity hair absorbs moisture quickly, but it also loses it quickly. There are simple tests you can do at home to determine your hair’s porosity.
Hair Strand Thickness and Strength
Hair strand thickness can impact its overall strength. 4c hair tends to have fine strands, which can make it more fragile and prone to breakage. Gentle handling is key!
Scalp Health
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. A healthy scalp promotes hair growth and helps hair retain moisture. Be sure to keep your scalp clean and moisturized.
Caring for 4C hair: A comprehensive guide
Taking care of 4C hair means understanding its unique needs. Here’s a breakdown of how to keep your 4C hair healthy and thriving:
Washing and cleansing
Because 4C hair is prone to dryness, washing it too often can strip it of its natural oils. Plan to wash your hair every 2 to 4 weeks.
When you do shampoo, choose a sulfate-free formula to avoid drying it out even more. It’s best to focus the shampoo on your scalp, letting it rinse through the rest of your hair.
Another option is co-washing, which involves using conditioner to “wash” your hair. This is a gentler way to cleanse your hair between shampoo washes.
Conditioning and moisturizing
Deep conditioning treatments are a must for 4C hair. They help replenish moisture and keep your hair soft and manageable. Be sure to look for moisturizing conditioners.
The LCO (Liquid, Cream, Oil) or LOC (Liquid, Oil, Cream) method is a popular way to layer moisture into 4C hair. Each step helps lock in hydration, keeping your hair moisturized for longer.
Using a leave-in conditioner every day can also help maintain moisture levels in your 4C hair.
Detangling
Detangling 4C hair is best done while it’s wet and saturated with conditioner. This helps to minimize breakage.
Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush specifically designed for curly hair.
When detangling, work in sections, starting from the ends and gently working your way up to the roots.
Protective measures
Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase or using a satin scarf can reduce friction and breakage while you sleep.
Heat styling can damage 4C hair, so it’s best to limit it as much as possible. If you do use heat, always use a heat protectant spray or cream.
Styling 4c hair: techniques and options
Type 4c hair can be a joy to style. Here are a few techniques to consider.
Low manipulation styles
Low manipulation styles are exactly what they sound like: styles that don’t require a lot of daily handling. The less you manipulate your 4c hair, the less likely it is to break, and the more likely it is to grow longer.
Some examples of low manipulation styles include:
- Twists
- Braids
- Buns
Protective styles
Protective styles shield your 4c hair from sun, wind, and other environmental factors. These styles can also cut down on how often you need to manipulate your hair.
Popular protective styles for 4c hair include:
- Braids
- Twists
- Faux locs
- Wigs
If you opt for a protective style, it’s important to moisturize your hair regularly and take good care of your scalp.
Natural styles
Natural styles celebrate the natural curl pattern of 4c hair.
Two popular natural styles are:
Wash and go
With a wash and go, you simply wash your hair, apply curl-defining products, and go! This style works best with products designed to enhance and hold your natural curl pattern.
Twist-outs and braid-outs
Twist-outs and braid-outs involve twisting or braiding your hair while it’s wet, then letting it dry completely before taking the twists or braids out. To get the best results, use moisturizing products and setting lotions.
Product recommendations for 4C hair
Finding the right products can be a game-changer when it comes to caring for 4C hair. Here are some products to consider incorporating into your hair care routine:
Cleansers
- Sulfate-free shampoos: Look for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Co-washing conditioners: Co-washing can be a great way to cleanse and condition your hair at the same time.
Conditioners and moisturizers
- Deep conditioners: Deep conditioners with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or avocado oil can provide intense hydration.
- Leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners help to provide long-lasting moisture.
- Hair oils: Oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, and argan oil are great for sealing in moisture and adding shine.
Styling products
- Curl creams and gels: Curl creams and gels can help define your curls and reduce frizz.
- Edge control: Edge control products can help you achieve sleek, polished styles.
- Heat protectants: If you plan to use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant to prevent damage.
In Summary
Caring for 4c hair is all about moisture, moisture, moisture! Gentle handling is also key, along with protective styling to minimize breakage. Think low-manipulation styles that tuck your ends away.
If you have 4c hair, embrace it! Experiment with different products and styles to find what works best for you. There’s a whole world of natural hair care out there, and discovering what your hair loves is part of the fun.
And remember, 4c hair is beautiful and incredibly versatile. It can be styled in countless ways, from afros and twist-outs to braids and locs. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! Rock your natural texture with pride.
Finally, keep in mind that healthy hair starts from within. Eating a balanced diet and living a healthy lifestyle will contribute to strong, healthy hair growth, no matter your hair type. So nourish your body, love your hair, and let your 4c texture shine!