Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!
In this article I’ve explained what is 4b hair type and how to take care of 4b hair textures. I’ve also included some tips on 4b hair care and how to grow coily hair better.
Wondering “What is 4B hair?”
There are many subcategories of hair that can better define the range of straight to curly hair.
Those with 4B hair fall into the category of curly hair that is coily but still has a definite curl pattern
Once you know what type of hair you have, it’s easier to find the best products for it. This will aid you in avoiding the use of potentially harmful products and treatments.
Curly hair has many subcategories based on the curl of the hair. Without further ado, let us discuss the 4B type.
What is 4b Hair and how to care for it?
4B hair is a type of naturally coily and densely packed hair with a sharp Z-shaped pattern and less defined curls. To care for 4B hair, it’s crucial to maintain hydration; use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, deep-condition regularly, and apply leave-in conditioners or creams to lock in moisture. Minimize breakage by detangling gently with a wide-tooth comb or fingers, and protect the hair with satin bonnets or pillowcases. Incorporate protective styles to reduce manipulation and retain length. Lastly, seal in moisture with natural oils to keep hair nourished and strong.
Key Takeaways:
- 4B hair, characterized by tight coils with a sharp Z-shaped pattern, requires dedicated moisture retention to thrive.
- Gentle detangling and protective styling are crucial to prevent breakage and maintain its natural volume.
- Optimal hair care includes hydrating shampoos, deep conditioning, and the use of leave-in conditioners and natural oils.
- Washing instructions emphasize sectioning hair to avoid breakage while ensuring a clean scalp.
- Incorporating a proper sleep routine and regular haircuts contribute to healthy growth and maintenance.
- Selecting the right products, such as detangling leave-in conditioners and moisturizing shampoos, is essential.
- Hairstyles that complement the natural volume and texture of 4B hair include side ponytails or fluffy buns etc.
Introduction to 4B hair
According to the manual, 4B hair is a coily hair type. This type of hair is distinct from 4A and 4C, which have more defined curls.
When compared to the other two, the coils of 4B have sharp Z-shaped curls. When it’s dry, it shrinks, but when it’s wet, it stretches. Furthermore, the texture of such hair can vary from fine to rough to coarse.
Because of the curls, it is impossible for the natural oils to reach the ends of the hair. In this article, we’ll talk more about how to take care of 4B hair and what hairstyles you can try.
Pros and Cons of 4B Hair Texture
The 4B hair texture, characterized by its tight coils and zig-zag pattern, is one of the most unique and versatile hair types. Here are some pros and cons associated with this texture:
Pros:
- Versatility: 4B hair is incredibly versatile and can be styled in a multitude of ways, from afros and puffs to twists and braids. The texture holds styles well due to its natural volume and density.
- Volume: This hair type often boasts a voluminous look due to the tightness of the coils, giving a full-bodied appearance that can be quite striking.
- Natural Protection: The dense nature of 4B hair can provide a degree of protection against the elements, as the scalp is less exposed than it is with straighter hair types.
Cons:
- Moisture Retention: 4B hair can struggle with moisture retention, leading to dryness. It requires consistent hydration and the use of leave-in conditioners and oils to maintain its health.
- Tangling: The tight kinks and coils can easily tangle and knot, which makes detangling a delicate and sometimes time-consuming process.
- Shrinkage: Significant shrinkage is common with 4B hair, which can be frustrating for those who wish to showcase their true length.
- Breakage: Without proper care, the fragility of 4B hair can lead to breakage. Gentle handling and protective styling are key to maintaining its integrity.
So while 4B hair requires a dedicated care routine to thrive, it offers a beautiful and expressive canvas for a wide range of natural hairstyles.
How to take care of 4B hair
Let’s take a look at the basic structure of this hair type first before we get into hair care. Hair with sharp angled curls is more common in the 4B hair type, which is prone to shrinkage.
They also tend to be clustered together because of their high density. As previously stated, your scalp’s natural oils are not able to penetrate the hair follicles.
There is less room for the oil to spread throughout the strand because of the tight curls. Tighter curls also make hair appear shorter.
If you don’t know your hair’s porosity, you won’t know what products to buy. You can figure this out by experimenting. There is a good chance you’re wondering what porosity means. To help you understand, I’ll explain.
Basically, it’s your hair’s ability to take in or hold onto moisture. In terms of porosity, there are three levels: high, medium and low levels.
In other words, the hair’s cuticles are widely spaced, indicating high porosity. If the hair is not properly moisturised, it is susceptible to dryness, frizzing, and tangling.
Hair with a medium porosity is referred to as “normal” because the cuticles are evenly spaced out. Moisture-absorbing and moisture-emitting properties make it resistant to drying out.
Your hair has low porosity, which means it is unable to take in moisture. As a result of the curls’ tightness, external products often accumulate. It’s difficult to get moisture out once it’s in.
Now that you have a better idea of how the hair looks, let’s go ahead and learn how to care for it.
Moisture your hair
Moisturizing your hair is the first step in proper hair care. Curly hair is drier than straight or wavy hair. It’s parched and in need of hydration, so treat it accordingly.
You’ll need to use products to hydrate the natural oil because it can’t reach the end. There are a plethora of options available for accomplishing this.
- Hot oil massage is the best way to hydrate your hair. Apply a generous amount of coconut or castor oil to your hair to help it retain moisture.
- Allow it to sit for at least two to three hours before removing it.
- Always use a good conditioner after washing your hair.
- We recommend deep conditioning your hair twice or three times a month.
- A leave-in conditioner is another option for keeping your hair hydrated. Use it daily after shampooing and always after rinsing your hair.
SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Conditioner is one of the natural products that contains Manuka Honey, Mafura Oil, Fig Extract. This will hydrate your dry hair and help you detangle while keeping the shine. Apply it from root to the tip and wash it off after 3-4 minutes for better result.
Hair detangling and hair routine
The tight curls in your hair make detangling a challenge. When combing, you risk damaging your hair and making it even more tangled.
Your fingers are the best tool for detangling your hair. This will prevent a clump from forming. After washing your hair, use your finger or a wide-toothed hair brush to detangle it. You should do so because your hair will be easier to manage when it’s wet.
Stretching your hair is another important step. This allows your curls to breathe while you do it. It’s best if you do it with damp hair.
Different hairdos can help you achieve this goal. You can give your hair a chance to stretch out with Bantu Knots. Your hair should be moisturised and the knots should not be too tight while making the knots.
Additionally, if you have 4B hair, you should try to wear your hair in styles that are protective. These hairstyles will help your scalp and curls stay healthy.
Your hair will be less prone to breakage as a result of these styles. To make it more eye-catching, consider adding some extensions.
Washing instructions
The 4B hair type has a lot of tight curls, so washing it is a delicate process. Make braids or use sectioning clips to section your hair while you shampoo.
Doing so prevents hair breakage and allows you to thoroughly clean your scalp at the same time. If you want even better results, you should also oil your hair before you shampoo it.
Sleep Routine and Haircuts
Caring for this hair type does not stop even when you sleep. A proper sleep routine is essential for healthy hair. Replace your current pillowcase with one made of cotton, satin, or silk.
Before you go to sleep, tie your hair in a pineapple bun. This will keep your hair from breaking or becoming frizzy in the middle of the night.
Your hair will grow properly if you choose the right haircut. When choosing between the length of your hair and its health, you should always choose the latter. Keeping your curls in tact requires regular grooming and a quick trim.
Best products to use for 4b hair
With such curls, you will need to stock your shelves with the proper hair products. Here are a few suggestions that will come in handy.
Detangler: Using a detangling leave-in conditioner will do wonders for your hair. Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Boost Leave-In Conditioner Spray will eliminate frizz, prevent split ends, and keep your hair shiny.
Shampoo: Washing your hair with the right shampoo will clean your scalp and improve the quality. Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo works on cleansing your scalp without taking away the moisture.
It has natural ingredients like pomegranate extract, honey, and babassu oil that will detangle, moisturize, and condition your hair.
Curl Cream: Your curls need some moisture. One of the best products is SheaMoisture Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream that has Silk Protein, Neem and Coconut Oils which will condition your hair and not weigh it down. You will also get frizz-free hair!
Hairstyles for your 4b hair
Now that you know how to take care of your hair, let us dive into different hairstyles.
- Side Ponytail: Do you want a change of pace? Make your best facial features stand out with this hairstyle. This hairstyle is perfect for your curly locks because of your hair’s volume.
- Fluffy bun: This hairstyle is great for keeping your hair in place while you’re out and about. Make sure your hair is properly hydrated.
- Bobby pins: They are a great way to add a dash of glitz to your hairstyle. Make a ponytail and use the curling cream to style it. Use some bright bobby pins for the sides.
Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.
Summary on Caring For 4b Hair Type
Despite the fact that Type 4B hair appears to be difficult to manage, moisturizing is the key.
As you know now that the natural oils have a difficult time hydrating the hair due to the tight curls. You also need to keep in mind that your hair will change in response to the care that you give it.
To discover which product is best for you, you may have to conduct a few tests. In order to be on the safe side, you should seek the advice of an experienced hairstylist.
Detangling your hair requires extreme caution, as does getting regular haircuts. It will help you keep your hair in good condition.
Last but not least, you should start to adore your hair. It will return the affection once you’ve done that. Your curls will thank you if you give them the attention they deserve.
To keep your 4b hair shiny and healthy, steer clear of products that contain harsh chemicals or heat.
Also Read:
Styling Gel for Black Women’s Hair
Detangler Shampoo For Black Hair
Spray Moisturizer For Natural Hair
To Summarize
