If you’re a type 4 hair girlie, you know the struggle. Sometimes it feels like your hair isn’t growing, or that no matter what you do, it stays short and stubborn. But here’s the truth: your hair is growing, it’s just that type 4 hair grows differently, and understanding how to care for it is the key to seeing progress. The problem isn’t your hair; it’s often the way it’s being handled. So, let’s talk about the things every type 4 hair girlie should normalize to love, protect, and grow her beautiful coils.
1. Moisture Is Everything
If you’re working on dry, brittle hair, you’re fighting a losing battle. Type 4 hair tends to be naturally dry because the curls and coils make it harder for the scalp’s natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. That’s why moisture should always be your foundation.
Instead of trying to manipulate dry hair, always work on freshly moisturized hair. Use leave-in conditioners, water-based sprays, or natural oils like shea butter, argan oil, or Jamaican black castor oil to keep your strands hydrated. When your hair is well-moisturized, it’s stronger, more elastic, and far less prone to breakage.
2. Avoid Unnecessary Combing
One of the biggest mistakes type 4 hair girls make is over-combing. Comb it too often, and you risk snapping fragile strands and undoing all the hard work you’ve put into maintaining your hair.
Normalize letting your hair stay in its natural pattern. Finger detangling is your best friend. Use your fingers to gently separate knots while your hair is damp or moisturized. Not only does this reduce breakage, but it also helps your hair maintain its natural curl pattern, giving it a fuller, healthier appearance.
3. Finger Detangling During Styling
Expanding on that, finger detangling isn’t just a one-time thing; it should be part of your styling routine. Whether you’re braiding, twisting, or doing a protective style, always work with your fingers to detangle. This method respects your hair’s curl pattern and reduces the stress caused by brushes and combs.
Type 4 hair is delicate, and even gentle combing can lead to breakage if done excessively. When you normalize finger detangling, you’re training yourself to be patient with your hair, which is exactly what it needs to thrive.
4. Avoid Tight Styles
Tight styles, think sleek ponytails, buns, or cornrows pulled too tightly, can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss due to tension. It’s tempting to want your edges or scalp to look smooth, but constantly pulling on your hair is damaging over time.
Normalize styles that are gentle on your scalp and hairline. Loose braids, twists, and buns allow your hair to grow without being stressed. Your hair will thank you, and you’ll start seeing growth you couldn’t notice before.
5. Embrace Your Natural Coils
One of the most important things to normalize is letting your curls be seen. Many type 4 hair girls feel pressured to constantly straighten or sleek down their hair to fit a certain beauty standard. But your coils are beautiful, unique, and a part of who you are.
Styles that highlight your natural curl pattern, twist-outs, braid-outs, and wash-and-gos help your hair retain moisture and reduce manipulation. When you embrace your curls, you’re not only protecting your hair but also celebrating your African heritage. Remember, African hair is curly and coily by nature, and there’s no reason to hide that beauty.
6. Avoid styling your Hair in Sleek, Straight Styles All the Time
Related to embracing your natural curls is the idea of not relying on straightening or heat styling all the time. While occasional straightening is fine, constantly using heat can damage your hair’s natural curl structure, lead to breakage, and even stunt perceived growth.
Normalize protective and natural styles that allow your hair to rest and retain moisture. Twists, bantu knots, updos, and puff styles are not just cute, they’re practical for hair health. When you alternate these styles, your hair stays strong, and your curls stay defined.
7. Protective Styling and Gentle Manipulation
Protective styling is a game-changer for type 4 hair girls. Styles like braids, twists, and wigs protect your ends and reduce the need for constant detangling. But here’s the catch: protective styles need to be done gently and not left in indefinitely.
Normalize styles that allow your hair to breathe, retain moisture, and show your natural curl pattern when taken down. Always moisturize before and during protective styling, and avoid styles that tug at your scalp or edges. The goal is healthy hair growth, not just a temporary aesthetic.
8. Patience and Consistency Are Key
Finally, normalize the idea that growth takes time. Type 4 hair grows at a rate of about half an inch per month on average, but it’s often hidden in dense curls. The key to seeing progress is consistent care: moisturize regularly, detangle gently, avoid tight styles, and protect your curls.
Stop comparing your hair to others, and instead focus on what works best for your unique curl pattern. Consistency beats quick fixes every time.
Final Thoughts
Being a type 4 hair girlie means learning to embrace your natural texture and learning how to care for it the right way. Moisture is your best friend. Avoid unnecessary combing, embrace finger detangling, say no to tight styles, and proudly showcase your curls. Your hair isn’t failing you; it’s thriving when given the right care.
Normalize loving your natural coils, working gently with your hair, and celebrating your curls. Over time, you’ll notice stronger, healthier hair that grows beautifully while staying true to its natural pattern. Remember: your coils are beautiful, resilient, and deserve to be seen.