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"Ziggly"
Hair Pattern that
Defies Gravity
This hair type is defined by its densely packed kinky strands. Contrary to popular belief, this type of hair IS capable of having a distinct coil pattern; but the proper balance of intensive and consistent moisturizing has to be achieved. This hair type is most often described as being a “more challenging version” of 4b hair. It has a tendency towards being dry, so constant moisturizing with water and/or water-based products are key. 4c hair is known for shrinking down to 75% of its true length. This hair shrinkage is an indicator of hair health.
4C Example 1
4C Example 2
4C Example 3
What Makes
4C Hair Unique?
Type 4C hair has an inclination towards being low in porosity which essentially means that it’s harder to get moisture into the hair strands. With this in mind, finding moisture-boosting styling aids where the first ingredient is water is going to be the key.
The cuticles on low porosity hair are very tight and don’t open easily. This attribute leads to product build-up as thicker creams and custards will only sit “on top” of the hair strands. Washing your little one’s hair with very warm (not hot) water can open up the hair strands which will leave it primed for product application. After washing, be sure to close the cuticle with a cool rinse. Take the Afro Baby Porosity Quiz to determine if your Afro Baby has low porosity hair.
Take Porosity Quiz
4C Product Options for Afro Babies
Contrary to popular belief, wash-and-go styles ARE possible on 4C hair types. The trick is using lighter, thinner products that can absorb into that curl pattern. Products like MIZANI True Textures Curl Define Pudding are perfect for the little ones and grown-ups and hold wash-and-goes with less buildup and more definition. Apply products to soaking wet hair and if hair is longer than a few inches, do it in sections. Two strand-twists do well on 4C and enhance the curl pattern.
MIZANI True Textures Curl Define Pudding
A rich, luxurious cream that defines and elongates coily to extremely tight texture types.
PURA D'OR Apple Cider Vinegar Thin2Thick Set Shampoo & Conditioner
With all natural ingredients like castor oil and apple cider vinegar, this shampoo and conditioner are perfect for low-porosity 4C naturals grade-school to adult.
Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave In Conditioner/Detangler
A creamy conditioner designed to smooth. An Afro Baby favorite.
Green Tea & Jojoba Deep Conditioner
Packed with premium natural ingredients that smooth the cuticle.
Urban Hydration Avocado & argan coconut oil conditioner
Natural ingredients that provide supreme moisture to overly dry 4C tresses.
Taliah Waajid Curls, Waves & Naturals The Great Detangler
Eliminates tangles, stops breakage and softens on contact
Best tip...
The most important thing you can do when it comes to your little one's natural hair routine is understand their unique curl pattern. Knowing this will help you with both product and tool selection.
Must-have Tools for Your Afro Baby
Croc Clips
Double Sided Edge Control Hair Brush
Glide Thru Detangling Brush
Useful Links
4 Homemade Deep Conditioner Recipes
Top 10 Natural Hair Products for Kids
Wash Day Routine for Kids with Natural Hair
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