Face it 4C hair does not get a lot of love in the media. Look at Social Media and promotional campaigns and it is filled with ladies with looser curl patterns. This can make it really hard to find information on how to look after 4C natural hair. Abbey Osho, founder of the award-winning, Salon ABV gives us the lowdown on how to look after 4C hair.

4C hair tends to be dry and loses moisture quite quickly so this means that it could become dry and brittle and as a result you can struggle to retain length due to regular breakage.

Hydration

4C loves hydration; it loves water, so regular cleansing is advisable, I would suggest every two weeks. You may introduce co-washes in between wash days if you do lots of exercises or if your hair is excessively dry. Make sure your chosen cleanser is sulphate free and does not include alcohols, parabens or petroleum.

Detangling

Carefully detangle your hair using water and oil or conditioner for a good slip, use your fingers and a wide-tooth comb. Gently detangle the knots of the ends of your hair with your fingers without pulling. Avoid combing your hair when it is dry.

Deep condition

Deep condition your hair every wash day AKA two weeks using a moisturising deep conditioning treatment. When selecting a conditioner, I would advise minimising the use of protein based products such as strengthening and restorative masques as they tend to lead to excessive dryness and brittle hair. If you do use them I would suggest a period of every  four to six weeks.

Moisture

4C hair needs to be moisturised regularly, so moisture, moisture and then more moisture. You can use a water base moisturising leave-in conditioner.

Less manipulation

Avoid over-styling and manipulation of your hair. Try getting a hairstyle that will last a few days or a week.

Read about the five common questions regarding 4c hair.

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