26 Style Inspirations You Need To Save For Wearing Your Natural 4C Hair
26 Style Inspirations You Need To Save For Wearing Your Natural 4C Hair
Some of the misconceptions surrounding 4C hair are that it’s coarse, difficult to manage, and it comes with a lack of styling versatility, according to Dr. Kari Williams, a trichologist and cosmetologist. But in fact, almost the opposite is true.
Though 4C strands can be fragile—which means it’s important to reduce manipulating them—the hair's coiled structure makes it no less manageable than other types, and actually make it one of the most versatile curl types out there. “The elasticity of the strand combined with the curves of the coil gives 4C hair the ability to form and mold into braids, twists, curls, and countless shapes without the use of pins, rubber bands, wax, or gel,” Dr. Williams says. “4C hair can truly defy gravity,” she adds.
When styling 4C hair, though, remember that it can be prone to breakage, Dr. Williams adds. If you can, try to avoid regular use of heat styling tools and, when you do use heat, apply a protectant. Styles that help to stretch the curls are preferred, like two-strand twists, Bantu knots, and braid outs. Or, wearing your hair in a wash-and-go style or up in a puff are other options. Dr. Williams notes that, a couple of years ago, “there was a lack of information about the unique needs of 4C hair, so there was also a lack of effective products.” Now, there’s an abundance of products and tools to help make the styling process easier.
As far as those products go, Dr. Williams recommends applying a daily moisturizer (like a leave-in) to the hair and after shampooing, applying oils and serums while the hair is still damp, to increase absorption and help maintain hair elasticity. She also suggests incorporating a protein treatment every six-to-eight weeks to add strength to the hair and using a moisturizing deep conditioner regularly. “The moisturizing conditioner should be used more often than your protein-based conditioner,” she notes.
Now that you have the recommended tools and expert advice to make it happen, we’ve gathered some of our favorite styles for 4C hair types.
There's a myth that 4C hair is more difficult to manage, and that's so not true, styling experts say. Here are some ideas for creating fun, easy 4C hairstyles.