Unlike the other hair types, you need to be extra vigilant when buying the products for type 4A hair. A product will ruin the natural pattern of your curl and damage the texture and hair quality if it’s wrong for you. However, choosing the best 4A hair product is easier said than done. Various factors need to be taken into account before you can make the buying decision. To help you with that task, this guide covers all the aspects you need to ponder over to make an intelligent choice.
Understanding the 4A Hair Type
The best way to recognize type 4A hair is to look for tight, small curls or coils that form an S-shaped pattern when fully stretched. Such hair may appear pretty dry and coarse but in reality, it can be soft and silky if moisturized well.
When choosing 4A hair products, it is important to pay attention to the objective, which is to prevent your hair from tangling, drying out, and shrinking, to say the least. Now that you’ve identified the hair type, it is crucial to understand its porosity, i.e., your hair’s ability to maintain and absorb moisture for better health.
High porosity
This type soaks up moisture well. However, if not maintained well, high-porosity hair may lose moisture at the same pace. For such hair, it is best to choose thicker hair products that would lock in the moisture for better results.
Low porosity
This is exactly the opposite of high-porosity hair, meaning the hair would repel moisture and wouldn’t let it settle in so easily. For such hair, lightweight, water-based products that offer deep hydration are the best bet.
Taking Care of Type 4A Hair – Everything You Need to Know
Caring for type 4A hair requires more maintenance than you think. Follow the information to get the best out of your kinks, curls, and coils.
Moisturize!
The need to moisturize this type of hair cannot be stressed enough. Moisturizing should be a priority when taking care of type 4A hair. Since the texture of such hair is pretty different, it is also prone to dryness, damage, and breakage if not taken care of. Most products tend to strip away the natural moisture instead of locking it in, and therefore, you need to invest in the right 4A hair products for its moisturizing needs.
Even though it is not recommended to wash your hair daily, make sure you moisturize it regularly for best results. A deep conditioning routine with your favorite products is what your hair needs.
Heat protectant
Heat can damage even the thickest, most lustrous hair. Always use a heat protectant when styling type 4A hair. Whether you’re putting your hair in more defined curls using a curler or giving them a sleeker look with a straightener, never forget to apply a heat protectant.
It is also recommended that you use a diffuser every time you blowdry your hair. The even heating will define your curls better without further damage.
Leave-in conditioner
Hair moisturizers or leave-in conditioners are your ultimate savior for type 4A hair. These products will keep your hair perfectly moisturized and in place until you’re ready for your next wash. A product with more natural ingredients is best for your curls and overall hair health.
Combing
Finger combing is your best bet when detangling your hair. However, if you absolutely must comb them, make sure you always part your hair in equal sections. This would keep them from breaking. Invest in a wide-toothed comb to comb your hair. Always apply a detangling product or a leave-in conditioner in wet hair when combing. Avoid using a brush to prevent hair loss.
