Winter is the hardest season for type 4 hair. Cold air and indoor heating pull moisture out, and hats and scarves add friction. This routine keeps moisture in, with adjustments for 4A, 4B and 4C hair.
Know your type
- 4A: tight, springy coils with a visible S-shaped pattern.
- 4B: a sharper, Z-shaped bend with less defined curls.
- 4C: the tightest coils, with the most shrinkage and the least visible pattern.
The winter routine
1. Cleanse gently
Use a moisturising or sulfate-free shampoo and wash every one to two weeks, depending on your scalp. A co-wash can replace some washes. See our winter shampoos.
2. Deep condition
Deep condition after every wash in winter, not just now and then. Follow the timing on the pack. See our winter conditioners and masks.
3. Moisturise and seal
Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair, then seal with a butter or oil. Many people follow liquid, oil, cream (LOC) or liquid, cream, oil (LCO). See our winter hair oils and butters.
4. Protect
Braids, twists and other protective styles keep the ends tucked away. Sleep in a satin bonnet, and wear a satin-lined hat or put a satin scarf under a wool one.
Adjust for your type
- 4A: a leave-in plus a light oil is often enough. Heavy butters can weigh the coils down.
- 4B: use a cream and a butter, and detangle gently on damp, conditioned hair.
- 4C: go for the richest products, work in small sections and re-moisturise during the week.
Adjust for porosity
Low porosity hair tends to resist moisture, so use lighter products and apply them to warm, damp hair. High porosity hair loses moisture quickly, so seal with a thicker butter or oil.
For the full step-by-step, see our winter afro hair care guide.
