Type 4 Hair Guide: Identify Your Curl Type (4A, 4B, 4C) & Best Care Tips

Outline

Type 4 hair is bold, beautiful, and full of character — but it often comes with questions. Whether you’re wondering how to define your curls, retain moisture, or choose the right products, this guide will help you understand every coil and kink. From 4A to 4C, we’ll break down what makes each subtype unique and show you how to care for your natural hair with confidence.

What Exactly Is Type 4 Hair

If you’ve ever struggled to define your curls, fight shrinkage, or retain moisture, chances are you have Type 4 hair — the tightest, most textured curl category. Type 4 hair is beautifully coiled, full of volume, and deeply connected to Black identity and culture. But it also comes with a unique set of challenges that need understanding, not frustration.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between 4A, 4B, and 4C curls, show you how to care for each type, and recommend the best products to help you feel proud of your curls every single day.

Understanding the 3 Subtypes: 4A, 4B & 4C

4A Hair: Defined Coils

• Curl Pattern: Loose, S-shaped coils
• Texture: Soft and springy
• Shrinkage: Moderate
• Care Tip: Loves lightweight creams and gels that enhance curl definition without weighing down.

4B Hair: Fluffy Z-Pattern

• Curl Pattern: Sharp angles in a Z-shape
• Texture: Cotton-like, less defined
• Shrinkage: High
• Care Tip: Needs regular hydration and oils to maintain elasticity and shine.

4C Hair: Tightest Curls, No Defined Pattern

• Curl Pattern: Micro-coils, often invisible without manipulation
• Texture: Very fragile, prone to breakage
• Shrinkage: Extreme (up to 75%)
• Care Tip: Deep conditioning and protective styles are non-negotiable.

Common Challenges of Type 4 Hair

• Chronic Dryness: Sebum from the scalp struggles to travel down tightly coiled strands.
• Tangles & Knots: Especially if not detangled regularly with the right tools.
• Breakage: Due to fragility and lack of moisture retention.
• Shrinkage: While healthy, it can be frustrating for those wanting length visibility.
• Scalp Issues: Like buildup, itchiness, and flaking if not properly cared for.

But here’s the truth: once you understand your hair’s needs, it thrives.

Should I Straighten My Type 4 Hair

That’s a question only you can answer — and it depends on your lifestyle, your comfort, and how you want to express yourself.

Some people choose to straighten their natural hair from time to time for versatility, manageability, or simply to switch things up. That’s valid.

Others stay fully natural out of pride, convenience, or the desire to keep their hair as healthy as possible. Heat styling and chemical relaxers, if not done carefully, can lead to damage — especially on already fragile 4B and 4C strands.

Bottom line: Straightening your hair doesn’t make you less “natural.” And choosing to keep your coils doesn’t mean you’re neglecting style. It's all about informed, intentional choices.

If you do straighten, be sure to use heat protectants, limit frequency, and deep condition before and after.

How to Build the Best Type 4 Hair Routine

A great routine starts with understanding the LOC or LCO method: Liquid → Oil → Cream or the reverse. Here's a simple Type 4-friendly weekly routine:

Step 1: Cleanse Gently

• Use a sulfate-free shampoo once a week or co-wash midweek.
• Look for ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, coconut-based cleansers.

Step 2: Deep Condition Regularly

• Once per week (especially for 4C hair)
• Masks with avocado oil, honey, or ceramides

Step 3: Detangle Smartly

• Damp hair only
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers
• Work from ends to roots
• Leave-in conditioner as slip aid

Step 4: Moisturize & Seal

• Water-based moisturizer + oil (jojoba, olive, castor) + cream/butter

Step 5: Protect at Night

• Satin bonnets (like Bonnet Queen’s)
• Satin pillowcases or head wraps

Step 6: Trim Regularly

• Every 8–12 weeks to prevent split ends and knots

Best Products for Type 4 Hair

Here’s a curated list of top products for each sub-type of Type 4 hair:

Bonus: Protect it all with a satin bonnet that locks in moisture and prevents frizz overnight. Shop Bonnet Queen’s essentials made specifically for textured hair.

Protective Styles for Type 4 Hair

• Box Braids
• Mini Twists
• Flat Twists
• Wigs & Weaves
• Bantu Knots

Make sure to cleanse your scalp even during protective styling and moisturize underneath.

Embracing the Beauty of Type 4 Hair

Type 4 hair isn’t “difficult” — it’s different. It requires care, attention, and yes, moisture — but it also offers unmatched volume, versatility, and cultural pride. Whether you’re just starting your natural hair journey or looking to fine-tune your routine, the key is consistency.

Your texture is not a burden. It’s a crown.