There's a common misconception that 4C hair can't grow past a certain length. But we're here to tell you this couldn't be further from the truth! With the right products and routine, 4C hair can grow as long, strong, and healthy as any other hair type.
So if you're ready to find out how to grow out 4C hair, this is the place to be. This article will examine some of the best routines for growing 4C hair. We'll break down all the information you need to reach your hair length goals.
How to Grow 4C Hair: Step-by-Step Guide
Growing 4C hair requires a consistent and gentle hair care routine.
Progress is easy to miss on 4C hair because shrinkage hides it, so check your shrinkage percentage and track stretched length rather than what you see in the mirror.
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Your hair is already growing. The problem is keeping it.
On average, hair grows a third to half an inch a month, and curlier hair tends to grow more slowly. If your length looks stuck, that’s your hair breaking off as fast as it grows in. Here are the seven causes of breakage and the weekly routine that stops them.
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To keep the length you grow, avoid chemical and heat damage and use protein treatments sparingly. Add a daily scalp massage if you enjoy it.
Regular trims, not overwashing, and protective styling can help maintain hair health, while a balanced diet and proper hydration contribute to hair growth from within.
Treating your hair gently, using deep conditioning treatments regularly, and protecting it at night with a satin scarf or bonnet can also help achieve longer, stronger, and healthier 4C hair. I'll explain each hair growth factor in detail in the upcoming sections.
Give Yourself Daily Scalp Massages
Scalp massages are an easy habit to add to your routine. In one small study, men who used a scalp massage device for about four minutes a day saw the hair on the massaged side get a little thicker over 24 weeks, though not significantly thicker than the hair on the side they didn't massage.
To try it, take down your hairstyle and remove any rings or jewelry from your hands.
If you like, spread a little oil onto your fingertips first so they glide over your scalp.
Gently press them into your temples, and move them in small, circular motions. Remember, the goal is to massage your skin rather than your hair. Over about four minutes, make your way through the rest of your scalp.
Avoid Chemical Damage
Because 4C hair is naturally fragile, you'll have to be careful with chemical services like relaxers, perms, and hair color. Otherwise, they can suck the moisture from your hair and cause significant breakage.
So, space out your chemical treatments and stay away from them altogether if your hair is already damaged. If you can't avoid them entirely, it's better to leave the harsh chemicals to the professionals. In addition to having more training, stylists have access to higher quality treatments and reparative products.
Prevent Heat Damage
Hot tools, like flat irons and blow dryers, can break down the protein in your 4C strands. They chip away at the structural integrity of your hair and can leave it dry, brittle, and prone to tangles.
That will make it nearly impossible to retain length and reach your hair growth goals. So if you plan on heat styling your hair, make sure that you're taking plenty of preventive measures. Some of the most effective ways to prevent heat damage include:
- Using hot tools on a cooler heat setting.
- Applying a thermal protectant before using heat.
- Using high-quality hot tools.
- Using hot tools no more than once or twice a week.
Related Article: How to Get Rid of Heat Damage
Use Protein the Right Way
When it comes to growing your hair out, protein treatments can be a valuable asset. These treatments contain protein-based ingredients that adhere to your hair strands and coat them in a long-lasting, protective layer.
Some forms of protein even penetrate your hair and repair the damage from within. They can repair broken bonds, minimize breakage, and increase elasticity, which makes your hair less likely to break off.
This, in turn, helps you retain length.
The one downside to using protein-rich products is that it's easy to overdo it. Excessive protein can cause breakage and hair loss. So, for the best results, limit protein treatments to once every six to eight weeks.
And try not to use protein-containing styling products more than twice per week. Then, gauge the condition of your hair and determine if you need to use them more or less frequently.
Get Regular Trims
We get it - if you want to grow your hair out, trims can feel counterintuitive. How does cutting your hair help it grow longer? We're here to tell you that regular trims are essential for maintaining long and healthy hair.
Trims help get rid of split ends and can even prevent damage from spreading up the hair shaft and breaking the entire strand. When you schedule a trim, ask your stylist for a "dusting" or a "health-focused" trim.
That way, you can ensure they prioritize removing damage rather than length.
How often you need a trim will depend on your hair and styling routine. If you use heat or drying products frequently, you may need to schedule a trim every 6 to 8 weeks.
But if your hair care and styling routine are health-focused, you can probably get away with trimming your hair every six to eight months instead.
Don't Overwash Your Hair
Regular shampooing is an integral part of keeping 4C hair healthy. However, overdoing things will leave you with severe breakage and dryness. Unlike looser hair types, 4C hair rarely gets greasy.
So, unless you overload it with product, many naturals don't need to wash their hair more than once or twice a week. But if you sweat a lot, use a lot of heavy products, or live in an area with a lot of pollution, you may find that you need to wash your hair more often.
In that case, try opting for a gentle co-wash instead. Unlike shampoo, co-washes cleanse your hair without stripping away its natural oils.
Try Out Protective Styling
If you have 4C hair, protective hairstyles can be a lifesaver. A protective style is any hairstyle that protects your hair from styling and environmental damage.
They tend to be low-manipulation and long-lasting, so you can give your hair a break from the stress and tension of daily styling. The one caveat is that even though your hair and scalp are out of sight, you'll have to care for them like normal.
So make sure you wash and moisturize your hair regularly and avoid unnecessary heat. There are a variety of protective styles that are as gorgeous as they are gentle to your strands. Some of our favorites include:
- Knotless braids
- Senegalese twists
- Cornrows
- Crochet braids
- Wigs
Grow Your Hair From the Inside Out
There's no question that healthy hair growth starts with a healthy diet. Growing hair requires vitamins, minerals, and energy, so you'll have to equip your body with all the raw materials it needs.
Additionally, certain nutritional deficiencies can stunt or even halt your growth completely. So try to eat a well-balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts. You'll also have to consume plenty of water and high-quality protein.
Treat Your Hair Gently
The most important thing to do when growing your hair out is to get in the habit of being gentle with your hair. So, take your time during styling and detangling, and avoid hairstyles that are too tight or require a high level of manipulation.
You should also take steps to protect your hair at night by covering it with a satin scarf or bonnet. Unlike cotton, silk, and satin do not absorb moisture from your strands, helping them stay hydrated. They're also better at reducing damage, so you don't have to worry about sleeping-related breakage.
Deep Condition Your Hair Regularly
Conditioner is a critical part of keeping 4C hair healthy. But sometimes, regular conditioner isn't enough. Deep conditioners are packed with a higher concentration of nourishing ingredients.
As a result, they're more effective at both preventing and repairing the damage. And that's not all; they also hydrate your hair more effectively while improving shine, curl definition, and elasticity.
For a super effective deep conditioning session, cover your hair with a shower cap and sit under a hooded dryer while you wait to get even more out of your deep conditioning treatment. The heat gently opens your hair shaft, so more of those beneficial ingredients sink into your strands.
Related Articles
- Co-washing 4C Hair
- How to Grow Low Porosity Natural Hair
- Why Does 4C Hair Shrink?
- Hairstyles for Short 4C Hair
Don't get us wrong, growing out 4C hair can be a challenge. You'll have to fight against single-strand knots, tangles, and chronically thirsty strands. But, with the proper routine and techniques, getting long, healthy hair is possible!
Just incorporate the tips and tricks we've covered today into your hair care routine, and you'll be on your way to long, beautiful 4C hair in no time. So good luck on your haircare journey!
