Stop us when we’re wrong.
You were minding your business, scrolling through cuff it and manifestation posts on TikTok, when suddenly a babe comes up talking about how a certain conditioner has been good for her 4D hair type.
You shrugged it (assumed she was just another clueless lass), but a couple of posts later, another babe is talking about how to care for 4D hair textures.
Now your antenna is all cued up, and you’re like…hold up. 4D hair? Did someone update the Andre Walker hair classification system and didn’t care to inform us? Wtf is a 4D hair type? Do I have 4D hair? Can someone please clear this up?
Woah! Creepy! We know.
We went through the same motions. But since we pride ourselves on being avid everything hair researchers, we couldn’t sleep right not knowing what 4D hair is, how to care for it, and how different it is from 4B or 4C hair.
So, if you’re still seeking answers, here’s a detailed guide on all things 4D hair.
What Is 4D Hair Type?
4D hair might not be in the classification system, but experts suggest it is extremely coarse and features very tight curl patterns and cotton-like texture that may take on the shape of a Z, tight coils, or a combination of both.
It is extremely dry and rough to the touch, meaning you’ll need lots of conditioner and moisture-packed ingredients. Also, 4D hair types experience extreme shrinkage, so if you’re not a relaxer or straighter fan, you’ll appear to have short hair even if you have major length.
Another fun fact: 4D hair requires a lot of manipulation and product for styling. Yet, its defined curl pattern makes for jaw-dropping twist-outs, blowouts, and wash-and-go styles.
Ok, Is There A Difference Between 4D & 4C Hair?
As per our research, while there’s not much difference between 4C and 4D curls, there are still some distinguishing features:
Porosity
4C hair is more porous than 4D hair, meaning it absorbs moisture easier and requires less moisturizing products compared to 4D hair types.
Density
The 4D hair type is denser than the 4C strands. If you have 4C hair, it’s easier to see your scalp than those with 4D.
Texture
4D hair type is coarse and wiry when compared to 4C hair. Nonetheless, like every other hair type, 4D strands can be softened with the right products.
Shrinkage
The 4D hair type features tighter coils and kinks than 4C tresses and might look shorter because of shrinkage.
How Can You Effectively Care For Your 4D Hair?
Like all type 4 strands, 4D hair type requires a little extra TLC to keep it healthy, frizz-free, and voluminous. Not taking time to care for these tresses can lead be breakage, extreme dryness, dullness, and frizz.
So to prevent all that from happening, you need to do the following to keep your 4D hair strong and healthy:
Washing
Most hair stylists recommend washing strands at least once every week (natural-haired Queens) for the best results. But as ECT, we say, washing hair depends on what you find to be best for your mane.
However, shampoo is one part we don’t compromise on when it comes to washing. Sulfate-free shampoos, to be exact. A good moisturizing shampoo like Shea Moisture Manuka Honey Hydrate & Repair Moisture Shampoo ($11) loves on your tresses and leaves your strands looking shinier, healthier, and hydrated.
Also, when washing 4D hair or any other type of hair, massage your scalp thoroughly to remove any residual buildup.
Conditioning
After a thorough cleanse, follow up with a deeply-hydrating conditioner and a leave-in conditioner. For 4D hair types, a cream-based conditioner like the Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner ($13) should be best since it’ll coat your strands in lasting moisture.
You might have to reapply leave-in conditioner several times, though. Doing so lets you maintain your tresses’ moisture levels and minimizes breakage.
Moisturizing
Yahp. The 4D hair type needs a looooott of moisture. Because of the extreme kinkiness of 4D hair, it’s practically impossible for scalp creams and oils to make it down your strands and keep them lubricated. But with a professional oil like Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil ($20), you can rest assured knowing your tresses are fully quenched and your scalp perfectly nourished.
You can also reach out for natural hair oils like coconut, olive, peanut, or jojoba. They penetrate deep into your hair, leaving your strands and scalps feeling freakin’ healthy and hydrated.
Styling
The best thing about having 4D hair is its versatility. So, when styling:
- Detangle your strands. Always ensure its wet (damp, not soaking wet), and use a detangling spray to avoid excessive pulling
- Use very little heat on your strands as possible. Like with every other type 4 hair, too much heat can make your tresses more fragile and prone to breakage
- If you struggle with frizz, tame your hair with a good super-hold gel like Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Don’t Shrink Curling Gel ($7) or styling cream meant for anti-frizz
That’s all we know about 4D hair types right now. But we’ll keep you informed if there are extra updates (hello, TikTok keeps surprising us).
Till next time babes!
