4A, 4B or 4C Hair Types? Difference between 4A, 4b and 4c hair type.
Did you know that not all afro hair is the same? Depending on the look, feel and texture, there are various groups your hair type can fall into. Afros are a great way of making life difficult but absolutely beautiful. Afro hair types have a different kind of routine and a rather lengthy one! The best way to understand your hair type is to follow the hair chart. The types of afro hair that are there they generally come in the 4A — 4C hair type.
This curl category is called kinky curly. This kinky hair is generally in a Z pattern or no pattern at all. They are quite dry as well. So, what is it that you can do and determine your hair type? This will help you understand which type of hair do you have. There is a hair guide.
Type 4 usually maintains its shape, whether dry or wet. However, you need to moisturize it daily since the natural oils from your scalp don’t reach the hair’s shaft. It’s also worth noting that Type 4 hair is prone to knotting and shrinkage. Hence, it requires careful handling and proper maintenance to preserve the length and prevent breakage.
What are the 4 types of hair?
- Straight hair.
- Wavy hair.
- Loose Curly Hair.
- Kinky Curly hair.
A word of advice, many times you will have your hair pattern or type come in more than one category, do not fret because that is normal.
WHAT TYPE 4 HAIR DO I HAVE ?
What’s your hair type? Are you a 3b or 4A hair type? Maybe — that is if you decide to use one well-known hair typing system. Your hair type could also be an “OS” or an “IS” according to a different hair type chart.
Note that type 4 hair is one of the most common hair types found in black hair (African American hair).
- Type 4A hair is full of tight coils. It has an “S” pattern when stretched, much like Type 3 curly hair.
- Type 4B hair has a less defined pattern of curls and looks more like a “Z” as the hair bends with very sharp angles.
- Type 4C hair isn’t a part of the Andre Walker Hair Typing System. Please see the “what’s missing” section below for more information.
- Type 4D hair is an emerging classification. It isn’t a part of the original Andre Walker Hair Typing System, although it’s become quite popular on social media and hair care forums. More details are available in the “what’s missing” section below.
WHAT IS TYPE 4A HAIR?
Type 4 hair is known as kinky or curly. The sub-classifications from A to C are based on the width or diameter of your wave, curl or coil pattern. Type As have the widest pattern, Type Bs are in the middle, and Type Cs have the smallest of the three. Hair shape and texture are best determined when your hair is
Primarily Black women have type 4A hair, and it takes a tight coil shape. Type 4 hair can be easily dehydrated and damaged, which means it’s essential that your hair care routine helps to address this. Using thicker natural emollients like mango or shea butter can help to style it after washing.
It also has very few cuticle layers than the other hair types thus breaking easily due to its poor natural protection. Although 4A hair is very fragile, it also has a very high density which makes it appear darker.
FOR CARE:
- Wash and condition your locks with the right products.
- Moisturize your hair daily.
- Protect your hair at night.
- Use all-natural moisturizing styling products.
WHAT IS TYPE 4B HAIR？
This is an almost Z pattern hair and is pretty prone to having breakage. With about 70% shrinkage you need to be sure of managing your hair properly. Do not stretch it while dry, it can result in severe brittleness and breaking.
Use moisturizing oils such as coconut & castor oil, that way you can help your hair become more pliable and less difficult to manage. Make sure you detangle this type of afro hair by using a wide-tooth comb and a whole lot of water and conditioner.
WHAT IS 4C HAIR TYPE?
4c hair looks similar to 4b hair type only it is more tightly coiled. In its raw state (no products added and freshly washed) it does not have a defined curl pattern. Coils have to be defined by either twisting, braiding, or shingling through the strands. Many 4c naturals have shrinkage up to 70% or more. This may not be immediately obvious, as type 4C is densely packed together which can also cause hair to be prone to dryness and breakage. But it’s not all doom and gloom.
To enhance your curl definition, try twisting or shingling your tresses to promote the curl pattern. And as type 4 hair is the most prone to breakage, it requires a gentle touch; so, try protective styles that don’t require much manipulation to the hair. Go the extra mile and protect your tresses by sleeping with a silk or satin cap to avoid friction.
4C hair type does best with products on the heavier creamier side. Learn more about the best 4c hair products. In order to grow 4c hair long, you have to be very gentle with it as it is the most fragile hair type. See more tips for 4C hair growth also see 4C hairstyles that help to reduce tangles and breakage.
FINAL THOUGHTS
And there you have it! The last four beautiful, natural hair types that are uniquely their own. Learn how to properly care for them and enhance them with the right products.
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