3C vs 4A Hair
3C vs 4A Hair Tips...
Knowing your curl pattern is the key to a healthy, curly crown. With its fragile nature, different types of curly hair require different types of routines. Though many people think that curly hair, is just that – curly hair. There are actually three distinctive curly hair types all within just the type 4 hair category.
Type 4 hair is the most common type of Black hair. Though each is a little different, all Type 4 hair is extremely fragile, dry and prone to breakage. Type 4 hair is grouped into three categories based on the kind of curl pattern it forms. These categories are 4A, 4B, and 4C, and we’re going to take a look at the uniqueness of each one.
Type 3C hair is defined by corkscrew curls that would fit nicely around a pencil. This hair type is the closest you can get to Type 4 hair without crossing that defining line. You’ll often see the looser curls of 3A and 3B featured as full lace wigs at the EvaWigs website, as these are popular curly styles.
These tightly packed curls offer a lot of volumes but have the potential for some major frizz. Using a nourishing leave-in conditioner can help you keep your curls defined and prevent tangling. Using a combination of styling cream and a light mousse can help you maintain those defined curls as you go about your day.
All About the 4A Hair Type
Coily or kinky hair can come in a few different shapes and patterns. Each of the three sub-types is susceptible to dryness and breakage. If you have one of these hair types, be gentle when pulling them into braids and ensure that you detangle from the ends up.
4A is a tiny corkscrew, often small enough to fit around a skewer. Frequent styling is key for protecting this hairstyle. If you do wash-and-goes, don’t skip the detangling process as those cute coils can easily get wrapped up in themselves. Use a curling cream that offers lots of hydration to make the most of this hair type.
Which Type 4 Curly Hair Are You?
Type 4A, 4B and 4C all require moisture treatments and continuous maintenance, but each hair care plan is unique based on your type. Do you know yours?
Type 4A Hair
Type 4A hair is coily or tightly curled hair that can look coarse but is actually very soft and delicate. Type 4A hair type has lots of tight coils and forms an “S” pattern when stretched. It has a clear, well-defined curl pattern, and it tends to look darker than it really is because it has a high density, which means that it’s usually very thick.
Here’s how to know if you have Type 3C vs 4A hair:
Easily breaks because it has very few cuticle layers, hence, no natural protection.
More prone to dryness than other Type 4 hair types.
Retains moisture well.
Less shrinkage than other hair types.
Wash and go styles are ideal for this hair type.
Sulfate-free shampoos and rich, creamy butters are great for this hair type.
Product recommendations: Whipped Cream – Heavy Curl Cream, Curlicious Curls Cleansing Cream. Sulfate-Free Cleanser