Ultimate 4A Hair Type Styling And Caring Tips

Publish date: 2024-05-06

4A Hair type is a beautiful and textured curl pattern that is distinct by the dense and kinky curly texture. This hair falls under the Afro-textured hair category and has a voluminous appearance.

These defining S-shaped curls are smaller in diameter compared to other Afro-textured hair types and are coiled in a tight manner. The unique structure requires proper care to maintain moisture and prevent breakage so, here are some insights into caring for the hair.

Type 4A Hair And Its Features

4A hair is distinguished by tight and well-defined curls that cascade down to form an S-shaped pattern. This hair type is popular among African Americans and has a characteristic texture that is densely packed with coils.

The Curls are often smaller in diameter which gives the hair its distinctive bouncy and voluminous appearance. This hair type often experiences significant shrinkage which makes the length of the hair appear much shorter than it actually is when dry.

The Defining Traits of Type 4A Hair:

What Makes The 4A Hair Type Different From Other Types?

4A Type Hair is a part of the curly hair spectrum and it is famous for its tight, S-shaped coils, and well-defined curl patterns. It is starkly different from Type 1 (Straight Hair) and subtly different than Type 2 (Wavy Hair) and Type 3 (Curly Hair).

Type 4 hair is often labeled as Coily Hair and it is further differentiated on the basis of the texture of the coils. This hair type has three sub-categories which are mentioned below.

Differences Between 4A and 4B Hair Types

4a has has well-defined curl pattern with S-shaped curls while 4b features a tighter curl pattern with a more Z-shaped curl. The former type is fine and wiry in appearance while the latter type has a cotton-like feel with a coarser texture.

The shrinkage occurrence in type A is about fifty to seventy percent while this ratio goes up to 80 percent in type B. The A curls are more defined and clumped together while the B curls tend to form a more compacted and zig-zag pattern. Similarly, type B hair is more susceptible to breakage and damage due to the tight coils.

Differences Between 4A and 4C Hair Types

4a hair type has more visible curl patterns that are more defined and larger compared to the 4c hair type which is rather tightly coiled. The strands of the latter type have a cotton-like texture and they are densely packed together and may feel coarse.

The shrinkage ratio is much higher in 4c hair and also tends to be drier and requires more attention to moisture retention. The 4a hair is easy to style while 4c requires a little more effort when it comes to certain hairdos.

Tips To Take Care Of Type 4A Hair

The tight coils and the fragile texture of the type 4a hair is the main reason why it needs specific care. The unique structure of the locks makes it prone to dryness and tangling so, here are some tips to ensure the health of your hair.

1. Use Water-Based Moisturizers

This type of hair features tight coils that are prone to dryness, so keeping it well moisturized is crucial. Use a water-based leave-in conditioner that has ingredients like glycerin and shea butter to hydrate the curls.

Apply a generous amount to damp hair and evenly distribute it around your head which will help to foster softness, manageability, and a vibrant curl pattern. Regular moisturizing prevents breakage, promotes elasticity, and keeps the hair hydrated. 

2. Co-Washing Helps A Lot

This is a technique where you need to wash your hair with conditioner only to maintain natural oils and prevent excessive dryness. Frequent shampooing causes the hair to lose its natural smoothness.

Co-washing helps retain natural oils and is a balancing act, promoting cleanliness without stripping the hair of its essentials. Apply the conditioner to wet hair and gently massage the scalp before rinsing thoroughly.

3. Deep Conditioning Is Favorable

Regular use of rich and moisture-packed conditioner to clean and damp the hair helps to provide extra moisture and strengthen the hair. Use a plastic cap or warm towel to trap heat which aids product absorption.

Opt for products that contain natural oils and humectants, apply on your hair and leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for an intense treatment. The heat opens hair cuticles, allowing the conditioner to penetrate and hydrate tightly coiled strands.

4. Detangle The Locks With Care

Section the wet hair and detangle it using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers with ample patience and gentleness. Always work in small sections to prevent breakage and minimize stress on the curls.

For added ease, detangle during conditioning sessions and opt for natural oils to enhance slip and minimize friction. Always prioritize low-manipulation styles to reduce tangling.

5. Opt For Protective Styling

Opt for styles like braids, twists, or buns to minimize manipulation and reduce the risk of breakage. These protective styles shield the natural curls from daily wear and tear and also retain moisture from the locks.

Regularly moisturize the scalp and ends and avoid excessive heat styling to get the best result. These styles should be worn for a few weeks, allowing the hair to rest and flourish.

6. Use Satin or Silk Accessories

Consider using a satin or silk scarf or a satin pillowcase while going to bed to minimize friction and reduce moisture loss while sleeping. Silk accessories have a smooth texture that minimizes friction and reduces breakage and frizz.

When tying your hair, use silk scrunchies or scarves to avoid snags and embrace the silkiness for a smooth journey to beautiful and well-nourished Type 4A curls. The gentle touch of these materials promotes a healthier and more lustrous mane.

7. Regular Trimming Works Wonders

Trimming your natural coils every eight to twelve weeks prevents split ends and promotes growth by eliminating damaged strands. You will get rid of split ends and experience a healthier growth of the locks.

Make sure that you use sharp and professional scissors to trim, focusing on areas with increased friction. Moisturize and detangle before trimming and let your curls flourish.

8. Follow The Hair Care Routine

To ensure the vitality of your locks, you need to make a daily hair care routine and follow it, and also make sure that you are aware of do's and don'ts. To begin with, minimize the use of heat styling tools or only use a heat protectant to prevent damage.

Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins to promote overall hair health. Protect your hair from harsh weather conditions and ensure minimal usage of chemical products.

Products To Use For Hair Vitality

By opting for specifically formulated products, you can take good care of your hair and ensure proper moisture retention. You need to make sure that these hair products have the necessary ingredients as mentioned below.

Try These Protective Hairstyling

Opting for protective hairstyling is crucial to maintain the health and beauty of type 4a hair since it is prone to breakage and dryness. Some hairdos are listed here that can prove beneficial to protect your beautiful natural locks.

1. Bantu Knots

To achieve this style, hair is sectioned into small knots close to the scalp which perfectly showcases the coiled bundles of type 4a hair. This style not only exudes charm but also protects the delicate curls and creates a distinctive and head-turning look.

2. Afro Puff

A timeless expression of boldness and self-love, this hairdo celebrates the voluminous beauty of natural curls by gathering them into a rounded puff at the crown. The hair is gently smoothened into a high, fluffy puff minimizing manipulation and breakage.

3. Faux Locs

This hairstyle is a fusion of style and versatility that mimics the appearance of traditional locs without the commitment. This protective style involves wrapping extensions around sections of natural hair which is ideal for those seeking a temporary change.

4. Halo Braids

A divine fusion of elegance and cultural flair, this hairdo weaves intricate braids around the crown to create a celestial halo effect. This style perfectly complements coily hair and celebrates its natural texture while adding a regal touch.

5. Two-strands or Flat Twists

This hairdo is a harmonious marriage of versatility and texture that takes the rich natural coils and transforms them into sleek and well-defined twists. The twists can be worn in various lengths ranging from a cropped bob to cascading down the back which makes this style flexible.

6. Pineapple Updo

This is a lively and practical hairstyle that embraces the natural volume and springiness of coiled hair and has the quality to preserve the curls. The playful updo is achieved by gathering the curls at the crown of the head, creating a pineapple-like shape that gives a whimsical touch to the overall look.

ncG1vNJzZmirmKTEo7XZnKarppWne6S7zGhrmmWYlraz