4B hair, also known as afro-textured hair is like the gorgeous middle sister who sits—or should we say, shines— between 4A hair’s tight, S-shaped curls & 4C hair’s super tight, zigzag shaped coils.2 

Defining characteristics include:

• Dense, tightly-packed strands
• Distinct Z-shaped curl pattern
• Sharp angular bends and kinks
• A diverse texture spectrum, ranging from delicate spirals to tight curls, often a mix of 4A and 4C. 
• A fluffy, voluminous appearance
• Afro

If you're thinking this is close, but not an exact match for your hair, you might want to explore our guides on 3C, 3B, and 4C hair to find a closer match to your natural curl pattern.

4B hair is incredibly versatile. Which makes them such a fabulous hair type to work with. From sleek, glossy finishes to chic updos adorned with colourful headwraps, the possibilities for looking glam are endless. 

Remember, even though it can be shiny, bouncy and beautiful in its appearance,  4B hair, because of its afro-texture, can be quite delicate and prone to dryness. If it's lacking in proper care and hydration, this hair type can snap, break and become a tangled mess very quickly. And that leads us to what's next.

To discern 4B hair, look closely at the curl pattern. Rather than forming consistent curls or coils, 4B strands exhibit a distinct zig-zag formation with sharp bends. This type of hair often presents a fluffy appearance and feels relatively dry to the touch.

It’s an incredibly thirsty hair type that craves hydration! Shrinking up to 70%, your 4B hair will appear much shorter than it actually is. 

While these characteristics predominantly define 4B hair, it's important to recognise that no two 4B hair routines are going to be the same. Tailoring your routine to prioritise your individual hair's health and vitality will help you get the best out of your curls. Remember, it's not uncommon for someone with 4B hair to have patches of 4A and 4C textures as well.

Washing your 4B hair is crucial for maintaining its health. Characterised by its tightly coiled "Z" shaped pattern, 4B hair can be voluminous and a bit of a showstopper when cared for correctly. However, due to its delicate nature and propensity towards dryness, it requires a unique approach to washing. 

Here are some guidelines to help you cleanse your 4B hair effectively without stripping it of its natural oils.

Wash Less

The natural texture of 4B hair does not allow scalp oils to travel down the hair shaft as quickly as they do in straighter hair types. This means that your hair might not get oily quickly and doesn't require daily washing. (who doesn't love that!) Over-washing can lead to further dryness and breakage.

Frequency: Aim to wash your 4B hair once every 7-10 days. If you find that your scalp is not overly oily or that your hair does not have significant product buildup, extending this period a bit longer might be beneficial.

To prevent tangling and make the washing process easier, you can wash your hair in sections. This method helps to ensure that each part of your scalp and hair gets thoroughly cleaned without causing unnecessary tangles and knots.

Method:

• 1. Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into 4-8 sections, depending on the thickness and length of your hair.
• 2. Secure the Sections: Twist or braid each section to keep them separated and secure them with clips or hair ties.
• 3. Wash One at a Time: Release each section one at a time and gently massage the scalp with the pads of your fingers. Apply shampoo primarily to the scalp rather than the full length of the hair.
• 4. Rinse Thoroughly: After washing a section, rinse out the shampoo completely before moving on to the next.
• 5. Condition: Apply a hydrating conditioner to each section, focusing on the ends, and then detangle again if necessary. Rinse with cool water to seal the hair cuticles and enhance shine.

By incorporating these methods into your hair care routine, you can maintain your 4B hair’s health and keep it looking its best. Remember that every head of hair is different, so feel free to adjust these guidelines to suit the specific needs of your hair and scalp.

Deep conditioning treatments provide intense hydration and deliver essential nutrients to each strand.

How to Use Deep Conditioners:

• Frequency: Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your hair care routine once a week or bi-weekly, depending on your hair’s level of dryness.
• Application: After shampooing, apply a generous amount of deep conditioner to your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the conditioner evenly.
• Absorption: For maximum penetration of the product, cover your hair with a plastic cap or microfibre towel.
• Rinse: Rinse the deep conditioner out with cool water to close the hair cuticles and lock in moisture.
  

Benefits:

• Restores Moisture: Deep conditioning treatments replenish moisture that is lost due to environmental factors and styling products.
• Improves Texture: Regular deep conditioning can improve the texture of your hair, making it softer and easier to manage.
• Enhances Elasticity: These treatments can increase the elasticity of your hair, reducing the risk of breakage during styling.

Adds Shine: Deep conditioners often leave hair looking lustrous and feeling silky.

A good nighttime routine is vital for protecting 4B hair. Protect your hair by sleeping on a silk pillowcase or wrapping it in a scarf or Cozy. This reduces breakage and maintains moisture levels by preventing friction between your hair and moisture-absorbing cotton pillowcases.

Detangling 4B hair should be done when the hair is damp and with a generous amount of conditioner to provide slip. Use a Flexi brush or wide-tooth comb , if you don't have either of these your fingers will do. Gently work through knots and tangles, starting from the ends and working up to the roots.