Type 4 Hair: Coily
Type 4 hair is coily: tightly textured hair that forms small coils, springs or zigzags with high shrinkage. 4A forms springy S-coils, 4B forms sharp Z-bends, and 4C is the tightest with the most shrinkage. Here is how the three compare and how to care for coily hair.
Type 4 is the coily family: the tightest textures, where the pattern is a small coil or a sharp zigzag rather than a loop. It is also the family defined by shrinkage, since coily hair can appear far shorter than its true length when dry. Type 4 strands are more fragile and the tight pattern keeps scalp oils from traveling down easily, so the whole family shares one priority above all others: moisture, and plenty of gentle handling to protect the strands.
The three Type 4 subtypes
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is type 4 hair?
- Type 4 hair is coily hair: tightly textured hair forming small coils, springs or zigzags, with high shrinkage and a strong need for moisture. Subtypes run from 4A to 4C.
- How do I know my type 4 subtype?
- Look at the pattern: 4A makes visible springy coils, 4B makes sharp Z-shaped bends, and 4C is so tight the pattern is hard to see unstretched. Shrinkage rises from 4A to 4C.
- Why does type 4 hair shrink so much?
- The tight coils and zigzags fold the hair's true length up onto itself, so dry coily hair can look far shorter than it is. This shrinkage is a sign of healthy elasticity, not a problem.