(ThySistas.com) Love your hair! No matter what it looks or feels like, it is yours and it is up to you what happens to it. That’s why it’s so important to know and own your tresses. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad about what’s growing out of your head, especially if you have type 4 hair. With that, let’s talk about 4C hair.
It gets a bad rep sometimes and I am not here for it at all. No hair type better than another hair type because all hair is “worthy.” You just have to learn how to manage yours. I like to call it “catering.” Yes, you have to make every effort to cater to your hair and that first comes with understanding it. 4C hair is thick, coarse, kinky and beautiful. It may take a little more work, but it is worth every single drop of sweat and tears.
Let’s look at some tips and ideas on how to manage your 4C hair.
Section it Off
Breakage is a big one for this hair type and you want to prevent it at all costs. When it comes to washing and blowing drying 4C hair, for best results, section it off. Doing so allows you to get all parts of your hair during washing. It also allows you to thoroughly dry without ripping out your hair. It takes longer but it makes all the difference.
Detangle
You have to detangle your hair regularly and the way to do that is with your fingers. A comb puts a lot of stress on your hair and that can lead to breakage. Detangling is non-negotiable, especially if you have 4C hair. Again, section it off, turn on some music or your favorite show and put in the work.
Deep Condition
Dryness is bound to happen and does so more often for 4C hair. That is where deep conditioning comes in. If this step is not a part of your regimen, please for the love of God add it today! It’s so important because deep conditioning serves to not only keep your hair healthy but also repairs your hair. Using a conditioner that you know works and adding some form of mild heat (dryer, warm towel, shower cap) allows the treatment to really penetrate your hair shaft. Trust me it works wonders in no time.
Protective Styles
Protective styles are the natural woman’s go-to. The fact that you don’t have to manipulate it or style it daily removes the kind of stress that can prohibit growth. A protective style for 4C hair can be braids, extensions, a twist out, cornrows and more. The goal here is to give your hair the break it needs from time to time.
If you have 4C hair, don’t be ashamed or wish that you didn’t. Embrace it and let it shine. Be proud of it by taking care of it.
Staff Writer; Rasheda Abdullah