14 PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES FOR NATURAL 4C HAIR

Laura GrayCe
Jul 14, 2022
3 min read

The misconceptions surrounding 4C hair are that it’s coarse, difficult to manage, and it comes with a lack of styling versatility, according to Dr. Kari Williams, a trichologist, cosmetologist, and member of DevaCurl’s Expert Curl Council. But in fact, almost the opposite is true. Though 4C strands can be fragile—which means it’s important to reduce manipulating them—the hair's coiled structure makes it no less manageable than other types, and actually make it one of the most versatile curl types out there. “The elasticity of the strand combined with the curves of the coil gives 4C hair the ability to form and mold into braids, twists, curls, and countless shapes without the use of pins, rubber bands, wax, or gel,” Dr. Williams says. “4C hair can truly defy gravity,” she adds.

When styling 4C hair, though, remember that it can be prone to breakage, Dr. Williams adds. If you can, try to avoid regular use of heat styling tools and, when you do use heat, apply a protectant. Styles that help to stretch the curls are preferred, like two-strand twists, Bantu knots, and braid outs. Or, wearing your hair in a wash-and-go style or up in a puff are other options. Dr. Williams notes that, a couple of years ago, “there was a lack of information about the unique needs of 4C hair, so there was also a lack of effective products.” Now, there’s an abundance of products and tools to help make the styling process easier.

As far as those products go, Dr. Williams recommends applying a daily moisturizer (like a leave-in) to the hair and after shampooing, applying oils and serums while the hair is still damp, to increase absorption and help maintain hair elasticity. She also suggests incorporating a protein treatment every six-to-eight weeks to add strength to the hair and using a moisturizing deep conditioner regularly. “The moisturizing conditioner should be used more often than your protein-based conditioner,” she notes.

Now that you have the recommended tools and expert advice to make it happen, we’ve gathered some of our favorite styles for 4C hair types.

WASH AND GO

Good and easy and simple. For this hairstyle, please don't forget to use a leave-in conditioner before you go.

TWO STRAND TWIST PONYTAIL

Dr. William's favorite styles for 4C hair because it enhances coils and promotes retention.

TWIST OUT

When you are tired of your twists, you can unravel them into a twist out and this hairstyle can last for up to two weeks.

KNOTLESS BOX BRAID BUN

This is a popular hairstyle for all curl types. You can also add some multicolored rubber bands on some of the braids then pull them up into a bun.

TWA

You can elevate your TWA by adding a headband to make it 🥰.

STRETCHED OUT AFRO

You can stretch out your curls for some height, volume and lots of character 😜.

FRENCH BRAIDED BUNS

This is a protective hairstyle whivh can be worn for days. You need to make sure you adequately moisturize before putting the braids in and sleep with a silk cov r on the head.

HIGH PUFF