4C Hair Explained: What You Need to Know

Let's learn about what is 4C hair and how to maintenance it the right way.

Unveil the secrets of 4C hair care and maintenance.

We’ll cover everything from understanding its unique texture to mastering essential routines.

What is 4C hair?

Characterized by diverse patterns like waves and coils, 4C hair stands out for its bold appearance.

This combination offers a bold and unique appearance but requires extra care.

Is 4C hair good?

4C hair is beautiful, just like all textures, each with its charm.

Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or tightly curled, it reflects your individuality.

Is 4C hair high maintenance?

4C hair is delicate by nature, needing specific care routines for optimal health.

With oils unable to reach the ends due to its shape, leading to higher maintenance demands for hydration and strength.

Despite this, 4C hair boasts incredible styling versatility and durability.

How do you know if your hair is 4A, 4B, or 4C?

Understanding the differences between 4A, 4B, and 4C hair types is key.

4A hair forms S-shaped curls, while 4B displays Z-shaped patterns.

In contrast, 4C hair features a mix of zigzags and coils, often frizzier in texture.

For more details, explore 4C hair additional resources about 4A and 4B curls.

How do you care for 4C hair?

Caring for 4C hair can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

4C hair, known for being fragile, requires hydration-focused care for health and definition.

Wash hair with moisture

Hydration begins with the right shampoo and conditioner.

We recommend using Biolage's hydrating products, enriched with aloe and cupuaçu butter, for soft, manageable curls.

For deeper hydration, the Deep Treatment Pack provides up to 72 hours of intense hydration.

Plop your hair

The plopping technique minimizes frizz and breakage for defined curls.

Instead of traditional drying methods, opt for plopping with a smooth T-shirt to reduce damage.

Some people prefer to leave the T-shirt on until their hair is fully dry, while others air dry after 50%.

Choose nourishing stylers

Post-shower care is essential for styling and maintaining moisture.

We suggest incorporating coconut and marula oil-based stylers to lock in hydration.

Care for your scalp

Proper scalp care prevents breakage and promotes hair growth.

Avoid tight hairstyles that can cause tension and scalp damage.

Matrix's Total Results Instacure Tension Reliever provides instant relief from tension and minimizes buildup.

Apply products the right way

Sectioning hair ensures even product distribution and better results.

Apply leave-in conditioners and creams section by section for thorough coverage.

To reduce tangling and breakage, keep 4C hair in a stretched state with styles like braids.

Don’t apply oils to wet hair

Oil on wet hair creates barriers that prevent proper hydration.

Let your hair absorb moisturizing products fully before sealing with oils.

See your stylist

Regular salon visits ensure long-term health for 4C hair.

Your stylist can offer personalized advice to optimize your hair care routine.

Jen Hair emphasizes the versatility of 4C hair, offering endless styling opportunities.The Best Hairstyles for 4C Hair

Twisted Bantu Knots

Begin by separating your hair into sections, ensuring you create enough parts for the desired knots. To maintain a consistent appearance, keep sections of similar size, although trying unique patterns is also an option.

After sectioning, coil each part firmly around itself, then turn it into a knot by coiling further and secure it using bobby pins.

Expert tip: You can use Bantu knots to achieve curls without heat. For perfect curls, style damp hair with a lightweight pomade.

Twist Curls

This method is a go-to for many, due to its low-maintenance and protective benefits.

Start with clean, damp hair, divide into sections for your desired twists. Smaller twists produce tighter coils. Once dried overnight or air-dried naturally, unravel the styled parts and fluff for dimension.

Voluminous Blow-Out

Begin from the base and use a heat shield before using a blow dryer. For a smoother finish, add a heat-press finalization.