How to moisturize your 4C hair effectively?

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Getting the adequate amount of moisture into 4C hair can be challenging for many Naturals. Have you ever moisturized your hair and found it to still be dry and brittle? OR Do you struggle to find the right products to keep your hair hydrated? Well, you’re not alone! This is a problem many naturals face. As much as we love 4C hair, the extremely tight coil pattern makes it difficult for moisture to penetrate through leading to dryness and breakage. 

We’ll be covering the importance of moisture for 4C hair and various techniques you should use to make sure your hair is fully hydrated at all times. Plus some product recommendations to help make moisturising easier to manage and not feel like a chore! If you’re struggling with moisture retention or want to combat dryness. Keep reading to learn more…

Importance of keeping 4C hair Hydrated

Moisture, moisture, moisture! We constantly bang on about it in the natural hair community. So you might be wondering – Why is moisture so important for 4C hair? There are a couple of factors that come to play here;

1. 4C hair is unique and has a beautiful Z shape coil pattern. As the strands are tightly packed together, making it difficult for moisture to be distributed through the length of the hair
2. It’s the most fragile of all the hair types making it prone to breakage and excessive shedding
3. It has a difficult time holding onto to moisture leading to breakage

But don’t be alarmed! There are multiple ways to combat dryness and give your hair the right amount of hydration it needs. With a little bit of TLC, using the right products and techniques. You’ll have fully moisturized 4C hair in no time and never have to deal with dry, brittle hair again.

8 Best ways to keep 4C hair moisturized for longer 

Here are 8 techniques to try to get the right level of moisture into your 4C hair strands and keep your hair fully hydrated. 

1. Spritz your hair regularly : 

If you don’t have a spray bottle then now’s the time to invest in one. Spritzing your hair with a moisturizing mix is a quick fix for dry 4c hair seeking moisture. Using water alone will not keep your hair hydrated enough as water evaporates easily. You’ll need to mix it with a leave in-conditioner to help the strands stay moisturised. The added product works as an emollient which is a protective barrier that helps soften the hair and lock the moisture into your hair strands.

How to create moisturzing spritz for 4C Hair?

• Step 1 – Pour your favourite leave in conditioner into the spray bottle
• Step 2 – Add water into the bottle 
• Step 3 – Give it a good shake and voila your mixture is ready!
• Bonus – add a couple drops of moisturizing oils into the mix for added hydration. Try avocado, olive or coconut oil. 

2. Use the right moisturiser 

This is where you’ll need to do a bit of homework. Unfortunately, not all products marketed to the coily and curly hair market contain the right ingredients. In fact some contain harmful ingredients so it’s important to get acquainted with ingredients that have a positive impact on your hair so you know which ones to use. This is a really important step of giving your 4C hair the moisture it craves for. 

Use products with film-forming humectants which help retain water in your hair. These humectants have moisturising ingredients that create a clear, flexible film over your strands to help resist dehydration. Here are some examples of these humectants : 

• Marshmallow Root
• Flaxseed Gel
• Aloe Vera
• Slippery Elm
• Pathenol
• Hydroxyproplytrimonium Honey
• Nettle Leaf tea or Nettle Extract 

Don’t worry we’ve done some of the work for you. Check out our product recommendations below which contain some of these film-forming humectants.

3. Use the LOC Method 

I’m sure you’ve heard this term many times. The LOC method is a moisture retention technique used to keep hair hydrated for long periods of time and is perfect for 4C naturals who struggle to get moisture into their strands. LOC stands for liquid first, oil second and cream last. The oil and cream help seal the moisture into your hair shaft to stop it from evaporating quickly.

If you’re a low porosity natural then you’ll want to use the LCO method. It’s pretty much the same thing but the second and third step swap places. Read our article on LOC VS LCO – Which method should you choose? to figure out what method to use. 

4.Use Sulfate/Sulphate free shampoos 

Sulfates/Sulphates are cleansing agents that strip your hair and scalp from its natural oils. They’re commonly found in shampoos and can have a detrimental effect on why your hair might be extremely dry. They’re great for removing product build up and may be found in clarifying shampoos but shouldn’t be used regularly. The regular use of sulfates/sulphates will strip 4C hair of the moisture it requires eventually leading to dry, brittle hair. 

Use a moisturizing shampoo during your regular wash day routine and if you need to remove build up then try a clarifying shampoo that doesn’t contain sulfate/sulphates. The ingredient to keep an eye out for in shampoos is sodium lauryl sulfate – stay clear of any product that contains this. 

5. Don’t skip deep conditioning treatments on Wash Day 

Yes – wash days can be a long process from time to time but you can’t afford to skip your deep conditioning treatment if you have dry hair. Deep conditioning has many benefits for 4C hair but most importantly – it re-adds moisture that’s been lost. It helps your hair retain moisture and penetrates right through into your hair shafts. Making your hair stronger and preventing any unnecessary breakage. 

Read our Deep Conditioning Guide for Type 4 Hair for more information and for some product recommendations. If you enjoy experimenting with DIY recipes then check out our article on easy homemade deep conditioners to try. 

If you deep condition your hair regularly, you’ll start to see improvements in your hair’s health and its ability to retain moisture. 

6. Invest in a Steamer 

Using a steamer is a great way to get heat into your hair and open up your cuticles. Steamers can be quite costly depending on the product you purchase but you can also use a heated or steam cap and get the same results. Using steam is a quick and effective hack to help your 4C hair absorb moisture. Use steam when you’re deep conditioning or whenever your hair feels dry.

7. Stay hydrated 

This is a simple tip! One of the most effective ways to retain moisture is to stay hydrated by drinking your recommended daily water intake. Anything from 1.5 to 3 litres a day. Water helps hydrate your hair and follicles with the essential minerals it needs to thrive. Plus, you’ll get the added benefits in your overall health, nails and skin. 

8. Keep up with your vitamins 

Do you know vitamins contribute to your hair’s hydration? It’s something we recently learned and it’s really important to have the right level of nutrients for your skin, hair and scalp. The vitamin deficiencies that mainly affect your hair are Iron and Vitamin D. If you have low levels of iron and vitamin D, your hair texture can change leaving it feeling dry and brittle causing breakage. These vitamins contribute heavily to the hair growth cycle process and can be the difference between having healthy nourished hair strands or dry limp hair. 

So if you’re anaemic it’s worth making sure you amp up your vitamin intake in this area. If you’re a 4C natural who’s followed multiple techniques and your hair stills feels dry then schedule a blood test and speak to your doctor about the results. If you’re deficient in iron – you’ll have low ferritin levels and if you score below 25 on the 25-hydroxy vitamin D then you have Vitamin D deficiency. 

How often should you moisturize 4C hair

On wash days, use the LOC or LCO method to moisturize your hair. Apply your leave in conditioner, then follow up with an oil and butter to seal in the moisture. Using this technique will help 4C hair stay moisturized for up to 7 days. However, depending on the level of dryness you’re experiencing and trying to combat. You might need to moisturize your hair more frequently. One way you can do this is spritzing your hair with a leave-in mixture and seal with a lightweight oil.

One thing to bear in mind is the weather and climate of where you live will affect how often you moisturize your hair. For example, in the winter months – the weather can be harsher and affect your hydration levels. So you’ll need to moisturize your hair more regularly during those periods. 

Observe how your hair reacts in different seasons and adjust your moisturizing regimen accordingly. You’ll probably end up moisturizing your hair more during colder and drier months.

6 Moisturizing Products to Try for Type 4 Hair

1. Camille Rose Naturals Curl Moisture Milk

Key Ingredients :

• RICE MILK: Offers potent vitamins A, D, and B12 to promote healthy hair growth.
• MACADAMIA SEED OIL : Seals hair strands to prevent breakage and thinning.
• SLIPPERY ELM BARK : Softens and smooths the hair shaft for detangling benefits.

2. Curlsmith Curl Conditioning oil-in-cream

Key Ingredients :

• CARROT : Source of vitamins A, E and beta-carotene, which offer much needed moisture to dry scalp and hair
• COCONUT: Helps seal the hair and reduces protein loss, keeping the hair healthier and more resistant against breakage
• RESURRECTION FLOWER : Desert plant that survives up to 3 years without water, known for its moisture-retention properties

3. Design Essentials Almond and Avocado Leave in Conditioner

Key Ingredients :

• ALMOND & AVOCADO provide intense moisture and hydration
• SHEA BUTTER restores moisture and improves hair health for the inside out
• COCONUT MILK replenishes moisture and aids as a natural detangler

4. As I Am Double Butter Cream

Key Ingredients : 

• PRO VITAMIN B5 : Known as Panthenol, helps repair split ends and strengthen hair
• SHEA BUTTER : Infused with vitamins that restore nourishment to dry and damaged hair
• COCOA BUTTER : Repairs dry, damaged hair and prevents further damage by adding lubrication to the strands

5.TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer

• SHEA BUTTER: Infused with vitamins that restore nourishment to dry and damaged hair
• COCOA BUTTER : repairs dry, damaged hair and prevents further damage by adding lubrication to the strands
• VITAMIN E: Rich in vitamins and antioxidant properties to prevent breakage and improve the overall strength of your hair.

6. Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave In Conditioner 

• MANGO : Rich in vitamin A and essential fatty acids which are essential for healthy hair growth. These fatty acids help to moisturise the scalp and hair, keeping them nourished. 
• SLIPPERY ELM : Prevents water loss, injects moisture into hair and scalp.
• MARSHMALLOW ROOT : Adds hydration and moisture to your hair whilst enhancing smoothness and shine

FAQ’s

1: How do I keep my 4C hair moist?

To keep your 4C hair moist and hydrated for up to 7 days. Incorporate the following steps into your hair routine: 

• Deep condition with a moisturizing treatment using heat & steam at least twice a month
• Use the LOC or LCO method to lock moisture into your hair strands
• Spritz your hair with a spray bottle every 3 to 4 days to rehydrate your hair
• Sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet to stop your hair from drying out
• Use products which have film forming humectants 

Following these steps will minimise your hair from drying out and help you retain moisture in your 4C hair strands for longer. If you don’t already have a hair regimen then create one to help stay consistent with all the steps.

2: Why is my 4c hair so dry and brittle?

Many factors can contribute to dry hair so you need to reflect on what you’ve been doing to understand how to combat it. For example, Are you using heat on your hair regularly? Or do you bleach/dye your hair too often?

Here are the main factors which contribute to dry hair;

• Not using the right moisture retention techniques
• Using products with harsh chemicals like sulfates/sulphates which dry out hair
• Excessive use of heat
• Constant bleaching and dyeing hair
• Nutritional Deficiencies

3: Is water alone enough to moisturize 4C Hair?

No, water alone cannot moisturize your hair. Water is great for 4C hair as it makes your hair easier to work with. But should always be used with in an emollient if you want to hydrate your hair strands. Water evaporates easily but the emollient works to lock in moisture. Always use a leave in conditioner and/or moisturizing cream in addition to water. 

4: Should I oil my 4C hair daily?

We wouldn’t recommend oiling your 4C hair daily. Oils act as a sealant to lock in moisture and if you’re constantly using oils. You’ll end up locking out the moisture your hair needs. Always use oils as a last step to lock in moisture from your moisturizing products.

5: Is it ok/better to air dry 4C hair?

It’s absolutely fine to air dry 4C hair but make sure to dry it in a stretched state to minimise any tangling when it’s time to style your hair. Once you’ve finished washing your hair and applying your products. Separate your hair into 4 – 6 sections and twist or braid your hair while it dries. 

Blow drying is also an effective way of drying your hair. If you’re worried about using heat regularly then blow dry on a low setting. Follow up on a high setting when your hair is roughly 80% dry. The method you choose really depends on your preference and your hair styling options for the week. If you’re only using heat on wash days then you won’t experience heat damage.

FINAL THOUGHTS

We hope you’ve learnt some effective techniques to keep your 4C hair moisturized. Incorporating some or all the techniques we mentioned will help you combat dry, brittle hair. You’ll start to notice a difference after a month. It’ll be a bit of trial and error in the beginning whilst figuring out what works for you but stick to it and you’ll see results. 

What techniques do you find best for moisturizing your 4C Natural Hair? And What are your favourite products?

Leave a comment and help a fellow Naturalista out.