African hair types are usually categorized as being kinky or nappy. There are 3 types of kinky hair- 4a, 4b and 4c; however most women have a blend of 2 or all the 3 African hair types. For instance, the sides might be 4a, the middle 4b and the back 4c.
4A AFRICAN HAIR TYPES
• It has a defined curl pattern
• Looks like a “s” shape when stretched
• Works best with wash n’ go styles
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4B AFRICAN HAIR TYPES
• Has a “Z”pattern
• It is prone to dryness
• Requires a lot of moisture, gentle cleansers and frequent deep conditioning
• It does not curl but bends in sharp angles like the letter “Z”.
• It is closely and firmly coiled
• Works best with low manipulation hairstyles such as buns, twists, braids etc to protect from damage
4C AFRICAN HAIR TYPES
• This is the most fragile natural hair types
• Closely and firmly coiled, so no defined curl pattern
• To define coils, you have to twist or braid
• Have a shrinkage up to 70% or even more
• Works best with low manipulation hairstyles such as twist our, puffs etc
• In order to grow it out, wear protective hairstyles like twists, braids, buns etc