To no surprise, 4c hair, like all curly hair types, is naturally dry. In fact, 4c curls tend to be even drier. And when 4c hair isn't properly moisturized, it becomes brittle, weak and can easily break, snap and feel like straw. That's why having a consistent moisturizing hair routine is key.
This type of hair is notoriously fragile and easily damaged, which means that it requires special attention and care to avoid breakage.
Although this hair type is the weakest for breakage and dryness, the incredible volume allows for a range of hairstyles that will last for days, as well as holding protective hairstyles for months.
Yes, 4c hair is definitely more susceptible to breakage due to the shape of the hair (and strand shape is based on the shape of the hair follicles ), but the hair DOES NOT break at the same time it grows. If that were the case, all people with tight, coily hair would be bald lol...
The microscopically tight kinks and coils of 4c hair patterns cause significant shrinkage to occur, which gives this hair type so much volume. Though dense in volume, 4c hair strands are very fragile and prone to breakage, dryness, and frizz.
“4C hair is usually naturally dry and brittle to the touch because the natural oils from the scalp have a hard time reaching the entire hair strand due to that inconsistent pattern down the strand,” Tolliver explains. As you might imagine, it typically requires more maintenance than other curl types.
Products Meant for Type 4 Hair
Since type 4 hair requires the most maintenance, be sure you're using products designed to nourish your hair. When caring for type 4 hair, it is important to remember not to comb too aggressively or often, as this can lead to damage.
Whether you have straight or curly hair, you'll likely notice an excess of frizz and tangles while trying to brush or comb through your hair. You may also experience a change in texture, and your hair might not cooperate as it once did. Damaged hair becomes brittle and breaks easily.
It's a common misconception that 4C hair doesn't grow, or can't get long. This is a myth! Because 4C hair experiences so much shrinkage, it can feel like your hair is growing very slowly or not at all. However, if you take care of your hair, you will notice growth when you stretch out your hair.
Dry and brittle hair is prone to damage and breakage. A number of factors that can worsen this condition include using harsh products, shampooing your hair too often and washing it with hot water. Not using a conditioner after you have cleansed your scalp can also contribute to dryness and breakage.
Type 1A hair is the rarest of them all. Straight as a pin and can be prone to greasiness.
5c hair type:
Type 5c hair texture has the tightest curl pattern among the other types. It forms a distinct "Z" shape and has a coarser texture. This hair type is often densely packed. Also, it requires extra care to maintain moisture and prevent breakage.
4c Hair Care Tip #3 Detangling for Growth
Detangle your hair with your fingers, a wide-tooth comb, and a ventilated paddle brush. YES, I said brush! Keep in mind that you haven't been combing your hair for the last two weeks at least. The amount of hair that you're supposed to lose is 60 to 100 strands a day.
over-manipulation: one of the main causes of 4C hair thinning is over-manipulation. this can include excessive brushing, combing, and styling, which can put stress on the hair and lead to breakage. heat damage: another common cause of 4C hair thinning is heat damage.
One of the easiest ways to repair and prevent hair breakage is to hydrate curls and coils with a hair mask, deep conditioning treatment or leave-in conditioner. Try a hair breakage treatment after using shampoo and conditioner to lock in moisture and help with gentle detangling.
What does hair breakage look like? Knowing when your hair is damaged is a special skill in itself. The main symptoms are broken hairs in your brush or drain, split ends, fly-aways, extreme dryness, a loss of volume, and tangles or knots after washing. There are many products and practices out there that can help.
Those who have 4C hair have naturally dry strands. This is because the natural oils from your scalp struggle to reach the entire strand due to your changing curl pattern. If your curls are not properly hydrated, then it is more likely to break or split off.
Most hair care professionals recommend washing 4C hair once or twice a month, with at least five days between washes. Washing more frequently can severely damage 4C hair because it's particularly dry and brittle compared to other hair types.
Kimble says, "It is actually a big myth that dirty hair grows faster than clean hair. Having dirty hair can cause bacteria growth and scalp irritation. The bacteria growth can cause scalp diseases, which can, in turn, cause your hair to fall out or not grow properly."
4C hair is naturally curly with a tightly coiled texture and high density. It is often considered the most fragile and delicate of the natural hair types and requires special care and attention to maintain its health and integrity.
The Wavy Hair Type
It falls right in that sweet spot between straight and curly. While wavy hair is less likely to get excessive oil build up like straight hair, it is more prone to frizz. But a natural wave is actually a very desirable look with an amazing amount of natural volume and texture.
So now that we know how we get straight or curly hair, does a particular type of hair type make you more susceptible to hair loss? All things being equal, there's no evidence that there's any difference in the natural cycle of hair loss for people with either straight or curly hair.
Type 1A: The rarest hair type, this one is very straight and fine with a “wispy” appearance. It's very difficult to get it to hold a curl. Type 1B: Though still straight, this type has a medium (rather than fine) texture and a little more volume.