10 Effective Ways to Keep 4C Hair Moisturized

If you have Type 4 hair, then you’ve been blessed with kinky or coily hair that is naturally dry and spongy in texture. Depending on whether you’re 4A, 4B, or 4C, your curls may be tighter or form more of a zigzag to your scalp.

In this blog, we’re addressing the 4C gals specifically. These gorgeous locks are stunning, but shrinkage and dryness are often major concerns. As the most tightly coiled curls on them all, your hair is also more fragile than the rest. Keeping 4C hair moisturized can be difficult, but we’ve got 10 amazing tips for you that will make hair care a breeze.

1. Stay hydrated

This is your mom’s favorite piece of advice. Drink water…and then drink some more. If you’re not hydrating, you’re going to see it in your skin and hair. How much water should you be drinking? Simply put, as much as your body can handle. If you can drink at least 2 liters per day, you’ll be in good shape.

2. Use a good moisturizer

Is your hair dry and frizzy? A good moisturizer can help you bring your dry and damaged curls back to life. Try the Taliah Waajid Curly Curl Cream. It’s a non-greasy cream that easily shampoos out with no build-up. It’ll condition and nourish your hair and enhance moisture and shine all while defining your natural texture. Bring out those coils and watch your curls blossom.

3. Lock in moisture using the LOC method

The LOC method is one of the best ways you can keep 4C hair moisturized. This method relies on hydrating the hair with water or water-based product. The moisture is then sealed in with an oil, and then the hair cuticles are closed using a cream, which prevents loss of moisture.

4. Minimize heat exposure

Avoiding heat is one of the best ways to keep your hair moisturized. While flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers are great styling tools, they easily strip the moisture out of your hair. Here are a few ways that you can minimize heat exposure and prevent dry and brittle hair when you do need to use these tools.

 

• Limit heat use: The easiest of all the ways. Don’t use it when you don’t have to!
• Use low-temperature settings: While your tools may go up to crazy high temperatures like 450 degrees Fahrenheit, most hair experts say not to exceed 410 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t use a high heat setting just to use it. If a low temperature will get the job done, then you should default to that.
• Don’t heat style damp hair: Applying hot tools to damp hair fries your hair. You’re taking fragile hair and causing drastic damage to it. Make sure your hair is dry before you use a curling or flat iron on it.
• Use a heat protectant: Using a heat protectant before using any hot tools can help prevent brittle hair, breakage, or split ends.
• Choose for heat-free styling: There is a whole range of heat-free styling techniques. Choose protective styles to protect your hair rather than styles that require heat.

5. Don’t touch!

Do you constantly have your fingers in your hair? We don’t blame you. We do it too. You may just want to feel your curls or make sure they’re the right shape. Unfortunately, touching your hair constantly can cause it to dry out faster. Keeping your hands out can help your hair stay in better shape.

6. Sleep in a satin bonnet

Sleep can cause a dramatic amount of damage to dry hair. Sleeping in a satin bonnet can help you retain some of the moisture and prevent some of the breakage you would otherwise cause at night due to friction. Invest in a satin bonnet and say hello to healthy curls!

7. Wear protective hairstyles

Keeping your hair in protective hairstyles can help prevent overexposure to elements that make your hair dry or brittle. While your hair is in these styles, you can keep re-moisturizing as well. Read our Protective Styles Regimen Guide

8. Deep condition your hair

The process of deep conditioning means applying and leaving the product on your hair for at least 30 minutes to ensure it can penetrate your hair deeply and pack it with the nutrients to thrive. Deep conditioning should be a regular part of your hair care regimen because it can add back moisture and help reduce frizz. Here is a great deep conditioner to try out.

9. Spritz leave-in on your hair regularly

Did you know the 4C hair loves water? Make it a habit to routinely spritz your hair with a DIY spray that can help you add some much-needed moisture back into your scalp.

Create your own custom leave-in spritz by mixing together water and your favorite conditioner. Start with less conditioner as you can always add more.

You can also purchase a stellar leave-in like this the Intense Moisture Bamboo and Coconut Milk Strengthening Leave-in Conditioner. If you currently love your conditioner, a DIY spritz may be the way to go. If you’re looking to switch things up, then trying a new leave-in may be a good move.

10. Trim it regularly

Frequent haircuts can help prevent breakage and over-drying. While most people go longer between haircuts, cutting your hair makes it healthier and easier to maintain. If you’re overdue for a trim, apply oil to the ends of your hair to help treat the split ends.

Final thoughts

There you go! These 10 ways to keep 4C hair moisturized and healthy can be easily integrated into your hair care routine. Don’t be afraid to try a new product or method if your hair has been a little lackluster in the last few months. Healthy curls are in your future!

 

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