Difference Between 4B and 4C Hair - Types of Coily Hair or Human Hair Wig

Coily hair, also known as type 4, the curl pattern helps distinguish it from curly hair. If you are looking for straight hair, quality products are also offered here. There are 4A, 4B, and 4C hair included in this category. In this article, we’ll focus on the Type 4 hair with its subtypes and maintenance, and the differences between 4B and 4C hair.

What Is Type 4 Hair?

Type 4 hair, often referred to as coily, kinky, or afro hair, represents one of the most unique and textured hair types, mainly found among black and biracial individuals. Distinguished by its remarkably tight coils and kinks, Type 4 hair exhibits a curl pattern that varies from soft, loose curls to extremely dense, tightly wound coils. Coily hair is known for its stunning volume and natural versatility

The tight coils often form a zigzag or “Z” pattern, especially prominent in subtypes 4B and 4C, while 4A hair features more defined “S”-shaped curls. This tight curl formation means type 4 hair tends to shrink dramatically when dry, so the hair can appear much shorter than its actual length. For 4C hair, shrinkage can exceed 75%, making it look deceptively short despite considerable length. Shrinkage is a natural sign of healthy elasticity and moisture retention, not a flaw.

Type 4 hair is inherently fragile and delicate. Its coils create many bends and twists along each strand, which can lead to breakage if not handled gently. Moreover, the tight curls make it harder for natural scalp oils to travel down the hair shaft, resulting in a propensity toward dryness and brittleness. This hair type requires proper hair care products and maintenance routines. 

Coily Hair Types: What Are 4A, 4B Hair and 4C Hair?

Type 4 hair can be divided into three distinct subcategories based on curl pattern and texture.

4A Hair

Type 4A hair features soft, well-defined curls that form a distinct S-shaped pattern from root to tip. These curls are medium-sized, springy, and loosely packed, making them easier to style and handle compared to other type 4 subtypes. While 4A hair retains moisture better than other type 4 hairs, it is still prone to shrinkage and requires consistent hydration to maintain its softness and elasticity.

4B Hair

Type 4B hair is characterized by a tight zigzag or Z-shaped curl pattern that is less defined than 4A curls and gives the hair a fluffier, cotton candy-like appearance. This hair type tends to be coarser and drier due to the sharp bends in the strands, making it more susceptible to breakage and shrinkage. The curls are densely packed but smaller than 4A, and the hair texture can vary from fine to coarse.

4C Hair

Type 4C hair has the tightest curl pattern among type 4 subtypes, often appearing as densely packed coils or teeny corkscrew curls with little to no visible curl definition. This hair type experiences the highest degree of shrinkage, up to 70%, and is very prone to dryness, tangling, and breakage. The strands are delicate and fragile, requiring careful handling and intensive moisture to maintain health and manageability.

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4B vs 4C Hair/Wig: What Are the Differences Between Them?

The 4B and 4C strand varieties of hair are perhaps the most misunderstood and misrepresented. 4B must refer to a curl that is somewhat smaller than 4A but bigger and more pronounced than 4C. What is the difference between 4B, 4C, and human hair wigs? 

Appearance and Types of Strands 

• 4B hair has a fluffy cotton-like look, with the strands producing a "Z" shape due to the hair's acute bends rather than forming a curve. It lacks a well-defined curl pattern. When you touch the type 4B, you will see that it is wiry and tightly coiled. 4B hair experiences about 50% shrinkage and up to 70% of its true length, giving it the appearance of being shorter. 

• 4C hair is coiled more tightly than 4B hair and lacks a definite curl pattern. Hair classified as 4C might be silky, fine, thin, or coarse. 4C hair shrinks at a rate of up to 75%. The strands do not readily clump. The primary distinction between 4B and 4C is that 4C is more densely packed and has less definition. However, texture and look are not the most important. The most typical error is mistaking texture for strand patterns. For example, 4C hair may be highly defined and seem silky, or it might appear more cottony, depending on the environment and the treatment of the hair. 

Maintenance and Care 

• 4B: Because type 4B hair is dry, it needs frequent hydration. Be sure to deep condition your hair periodically and wash it with mild cleansers. When drying 4B hair, it is recommended to begin with a microfiber towel to prevent creating strain on the strands. 4B hair is easier to style and manage than 4C hair.

• 4C: Because type 4C hair is more prone to breakage than 4B and dries out rapidly, it requires a lot of moisture. To eliminate build-up and debris, you should clean your hair and scalp frequently with a sulfate-free shampoo. When sleeping, it is preferable to wear a satin or silk hat due to the type 4C's high breaking rate. Conditioning your hair should be a regular element of your hair care routine. Regularly moisturize your 4C hair. Sealing oils like olive and moisturizers can be used to seal in moisture and increase elasticity. 

Hairstyle Selection 

• 4B: Individuals with 4B hair should go for protective hairstyles such as twists, braids, and buns to avoid damaging the natural hair. Additionally, they should avoid manipulation techniques like ponytail puffs. Always use a wide-tooth comb when detangling your 4B coils. 

• 4C: The ideal hairstyles for 4C are those that need less manipulation, such as two-strand twists, two-braid updos, box braids, Bantu knots, and puffs. Use a wide-toothed comb on damp hair, apply a conditioner to help with the process, and avoid over-styling. 

How to Properly Care for Type 4 Hair?

Caring for 4A Hair

To care for 4A hair, begin with a sulphate-free shampoo that cleanses gently without stripping natural oils. Hydrating shampoos with natural oils like castor oil are ideal. Use rich, moisturizing conditioners containing shea butter or jojoba oil to prevent dryness. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments weekly to enhance moisture retention and elasticity. Styling is best done with lightweight creams or curl-defining gels featuring ingredients such as flaxseed gel or aloe vera to maintain curl definition without weighing hair down. Air drying is preferred to preserve the natural S-shaped curl pattern; if heat is needed, use a diffuser on low heat. Protect hair at night with silk or satin pillowcases or bonnets to reduce friction, breakage, and frizz.

Caring for 4B Hair

4B hair requires intensive moisture due to its tendency to dryness and breakage. Use a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo or co-wash with nourishing conditioners containing oils and butters like coconut or avocado oil to cleanse while boosting hydration. Regular deep conditioning treatments are essential for strengthening and moisturizing strands. Styling products such as leave-in conditioners and curl creams designed for coily hair help define curls without causing buildup; avoid heavy products that can weigh hair down. Detangle gently when damp using wide-tooth combs or fingers coated with conditioner to minimize breakage. Air drying is ideal, but if heat styling is necessary, always apply a heat protectant and use a diffuser on low heat to maintain curl integrity and reduce frizz.

Caring for 4C Hair

For 4C hair, moisture is paramount. Use moisturizing shampoos or co-wash conditioners free from sulphates and harsh chemicals to cleanse hair without stripping oils. Deep conditioning treatments with rich ingredients like shea butter, honey, or olive oil should be part of a weekly routine to hydrate and restore elasticity. Heavier styling products, such as hair butters, are beneficial to seal in moisture, but lighter curl creams and gels also work well for hold and definition. Leave-in conditioners and moisturizing sprays help maintain hydration between washes. Oils like coconut, jojoba, or argan are effective for sealing moisture. Air drying is best, but if using heat, always protect hair with a heat protectant and use a diffuser on a low heat setting to prevent frizz and damage. Silk or satin accessories for sleeping are highly recommended to minimize breakage.