For truly thriving 4C hair, that tightly coiled crown we adore, maintaining a healthy, clean scalp is the non-negotiable foundation – it’s where everything begins. I’ve learned through years of managing my own kinky, coily texture that skipping washes hoping to preserve moisture always backfires; consistent shampooing regularly, about every week or two, is surprisingly essential to remove buildup that blocks hydrating ingredients from penetrating deeply.
My goal is always to retain length and keep strands nourished, and achieving the best results from deep conditioners or strengthening protein treatments absolutely requires hair to be properly cleansed first. That’s why I carefully opt for favourite shampoos rich in moisture-locking components like aloe vera or shea butter, and I consciously alternate between them depending on my hair and scalp’s shifting needs – a clarifying wash one week when product residue feels heavy, followed by a super-emollient formula the next when dryness kicks in.
How often should I shampoo My Hair?
Shampoo your 4C hair weekly to remove dirt and product build up. However, choose to wash less often if your scalp feels dry. For a protective style like braids, use shampoo every two weeks to gently remove dirt and build up. Tip: Dilute your shampoo with water or conditioner in an applicator bottle for gentler washing while in braids. From my experience, listening to your hair is key.
How should I use a shampoo?
Thoroughly saturate your hair with warm water. Emulsify a quarter-sized amount of shampoo in your palms, then apply directly to your scalp. Focus on massaging gently with your finger tips (never nails!) to lift dirt. For tighter coils, Tangle Teezer’s exfoliator massager can help access hard-to-reach areas. Work the lather down to mid-lengths and fragile ends with a gentle squeeze—never rough rubbing. Rinse thoroughly; residue strangles moisture. Repeat only if necessary (like after heavy product use) to ensure a truly clean base before conditioning.
What are the different types of shampoos?
You can choose from a Moisturising shampoo, Clarifying shampoo, Anti-Breakage shampoo, Exfoliating shampoo, Anti-Dandruff shampoo, Shampoo Bar and Co-Washes depending on your hair and scalp needs.
Best Shampoos for Natural Hair
Palmer’s Olive Oil Formula Shine Therapy Shampoo
Struggling with dry hair and scalp? Palmer’s Shine Therapy Shampoo, powered by its nourishing Olive Oil Formula, deeply cleanses with a rich, creamy lather that never leaves 4c hair feeling stripped. Instead, it delivers intense moisture (thanks to Olive Oil and Jamaican Black Castor Oil), preps strands for hydration, eases detangling, and enhances natural shine, all with a refreshing fragrance. It’s true Therapy for brittle coils.
Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Hair Shampoo
This sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoo deeply cleanses 4c hair while moisturizing with shea butter and coconut oil. It strengthens strands, reducing breakage and frizz, while silk proteins enhance softness and shine. Though its tropical fragrance adds appeal, the coconut oil can accumulate on low porosity hair, creating a feeling of heaviness if not rinsed thoroughly.
Mielle Detangling Co-Wash
Mielle Detangling Co-Wash gently cleanses 4c hair, removing impurities without stripping natural oils. Its nourishing mix of shea butter and coconut oil delivers revitalizing moisture, easing detangling while avoiding weigh down—even on low porosity hair. I find its rich texture maintains perfect balance across textures, from tight coils to 2b hair, boosting definition without compromising hydration.
Cantu Shea Butter Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo
This shampoo is ideal for thick, porous hair, as it moisturizes and cleanses without stripping natural oils. It helps prevent breakage and frizz, leaving hair hydrated and soft. The formula is gentle, free from harsh fragrances, and suitable for sensitive scalps. It works well for low porosity hair that struggles with moisture absorption.
Camille Rose Caramel Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner
This co-wash is ideal for 4C hair as it provides gentle cleansing while moisturizing and strengthening the strands. It uses natural ingredients like coconut, aloe vera, and argan oils to reduce breakage and hydrate dry hair, especially for those with low porosity. Its rich caramel scent and thick texture ensure a nourishing experience while minimizing damage.
Deva Curl No-Poo Decadence
For type 4c hair, this sulfate-free co-wash is ideal as it gently cleanses without stripping moisture. Packed with chufa milk and quinoa proteins, it helps define curls and adds shine, though its fragrance may be too strong for some. The price is high for the quantity, but it’s a great choice for achieving well-defined, moisturized curls.
Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Sulfate-Free Shampoo
A sulfate-free shampoo with almond and avocado oils is perfect for 4C hair, offering moisture and hydration. It’s gentle, helps with detangling due to its slip, and has a mild fragrance, making it a great choice for sensitive scalps and soft, nourished hair.
Mizani True Textures Moisture Replenish Shampoo
A shampoo for 4C hair should hydrate and nourish. This sulfate-free formula, enriched with coconut, marula, and olive oils, detangles and leaves hair soft and supple. At €34, it provides deep moisture without heaviness, making it ideal for low porosity hair. It’s gentle, but those with sensitivity should use it with caution.
Rizos Curls Deep Conditioner
This conditioner blends shea butter, sunflower oil, and olive oil to hydrate and detangle 4C hair, while the refreshing citrus fragrance and coconut milk add moisture and softness, leaving curls smooth and manageable.
Curlsmith Double Cream Deep Quencher
For type 4C hair, this vegan shampoo with shea butter, avocado, and sunflower oils deeply nourishes and prevents breakage. It restores softness, improves moisture retention, and is safe for low porosity hair with its sulfate-free formula, leaving hair healthy without weighing it down.
Pattern Intensive Conditioner for Tight Textures
A rich conditioner with ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, and safflower is essential for keeping type 4C hair hydrated, healthy, and manageable. It helps with detangling and suits low porosity hair, ensuring deep moisture without weighing curls down, making it worth the higher price for thick, textured hair.
Adwoa Beauty Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Cream
This product is perfect for 4C hair and sensitive scalps. Its blend of peppermint and rosemary helps stimulate growth, while shea butter and baobab moisturize and define curls. Though it costs €31.95, it’s worth the investment for its gentle, effective care.
Bread Beauty Supply Hair-Wash Gentle Milky Hair Cleanser
This creamy shampoo gently cleanses 4C hair without drying it out. The light lather and argan oil nourish and maintain moisture, while effectively eliminating buildup. It rinses completely and is a great option for co-washing, leaving your hair soft and manageable.
Sienna Naturals H.A.P.I. Shampoo
This shampoo gently cleanses 4C hair without stripping oils, thanks to aloe vera, baobab, and coconut oils. It moisturizes and lathers well, with a soothing scent from lavender and geranium. Pregnant users should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
Conclusion
When it comes to taking care of 4C hair, it’s essential to create a routine that supports its natural texture and needs. Using a sulfate-free shampoo is an important first step, as it ensures you avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
For optimal hair health, it’s crucial to pair this with a moisturizing conditioner and deep care treatments like moisturizing masks. Alternating between different hair care products, such as a nourishing shampoo and a co-wash, can help maintain moisture levels and prevent dryness.
Deep nourishing products are key to sustaining the hair’s health over time, and by adding additional moisturizing masks into your care routine, you will likely notice stronger, more vibrant hair. Ensuring that you use the right hair products can make a significant difference in the overall texture and appearance of your 4C hair, ultimately promoting a successful hair care journey.