What should you put in 4C hair?

Whether you're transitioning to natural hair or you've been natural for ages, it's helpful to have a solid routine down. The biggest factors are generally avoiding sulfates and being sure to moisturize sufficiently and often. Black hair experts recommend caution with bleaching and heat styling, and steering clear of tight buns and ponies, as well.

How do you keep your 4C hair moisturized?

There are numerous ways to keep 4C hair moisturized and well-hydrated. Among them, experts recommend protection from the elements with a scarf or hat in winter, deep conditioning treatments, protective styles such as braids, and cream-based products during cold months.

What products will make 4C hair curly?

All of the products included here should assist in making your tresses as bouncy as can be. Curl enhancers such as curl creams are also a good choice. Celebrity hairstylist and owner of Deeper Than Hair in Philadelphia Annagjid “Kee” Taylor says that "a curl cream is a styling cream that helps to define your natural curls... not only will it give curls definition, but it will provide them with moisture you need to eliminate frizz .”

How often should 4C hair be washed?

4C hair experts recommend washing less often than co-washing , which is when you use a single product to wash and condition. By only washing and conditioning separately on occasion—such as once a month—you'll help your hair and scalp keep its needed oils, and mitigate dryness in between washes.

The 16 Best 4C Hair Products of 2022

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

From gorgeous kinks and coils to afro puffs, 4C hair is versatile and can be shapeshifted into practically any style. Of course, every single hair type has its own unique set of needs, but 4C hair is particularly picky, requiring lots of moisture and gentle detangling.

While personal habits play a significant role in the quality of your tresses, the right products can make a huge difference in both curl definition and the softness of your hair. Kinky coils definitely need some extra TLC, and not all products deliver. We decided to go straight to the source and ask real women what they love to use on their textured hair. Ahead, you'll find their choices for everything from conditioning caps to edge controllers.

To ensure that the products you choose improve your hair's health, you'll want to look for some of the many beneficial naturally moisturizing ingredients on the market and steer clear of sulfates. Read on for the best products for 4C hair.

Our Top Picks

Best Shampoo:

Camille Rose Naturals Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse at Sallybeauty.com

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Best Conditioner:

Endless Allure Moisturizing Conditioner at Endlessallure.com

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Best Leave-In Conditioner:

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In at Amazon

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Best Scalp Pomade:

Confidence by Gabby Goodwin Scalp Pomade at Gabbybows.com

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Best Deep Conditioner:

NaturAll Club Ice Cream Deep Conditioner at Naturallclub.com

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Best Deep Conditioning Cap:

Glow By Daye Conditioning Cap at Glowbydaye.com

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Best Hair Mask:

Carol’s Daughter Curl Quenching Deep Moisture Mask at IHerb

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Best Detangler:

Aunt Jackie’s Instant Detangling Therapy at Amazon

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Best Detangling Brush:

Messen Detangling Brush at Amazon

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Best Gel:

Pattern Curl Gel at Ulta

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Camille Rose Naturals Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse

Courtesy of Sally Beauty

View On Sallybeauty.com

What We Like

Gentle
Hydrating
Smells good

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note it needs more slip

For kinky hair types, sudsy shampoos and over-washing can do more harm than good, so it’s important to find a cleanser that doesn’t strip your hair of its necessary oils. That’s why this sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo has become a fan favorite. The formula nourishes your hair with an invigorating blend of ginger and essential oils—users report that it has a deeply conditioning effect.

View On Endlessallure.com

What We Like

pH-balanced
Adds shine
Volumizes

What We Don't Like

Contains methylisothiazolinone

This pH-balanced conditioner is prime for sensitive scalps and has the essential nutrients needed to rebuild dry or damaged hair, according to the brand. Take it from Mariah Smith, an educator who is finally starting to experiment with her hair texture. “After using this conditioner, my hair is super soft and so easy to manage." She adds, "I also just purchased the Curl Defining Gel and my curls popped as soon as I put it on.”

Hair Type: 4C | Size: 8 fl. oz. | Byrdie Clean: No

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In

View On Amazon View On Sallybeauty.com

What We Like

Softens hair
Adds definition
Moisturizing

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note results aren't drastic

This cream-based conditioner seals in moisture to leave your hair feeling softer and more manageable. Tierra Camille says, “The entire line is good but I love, love, love the leave-in conditioner! You don’t need too much, you can use it with literally any product, and your curls get really defined and moisturized." The best part? There's no greasy residue left behind.

Hair Type: Thick, curly | Size: 12 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes

View On Gabbybows.com

What We Like

Moisturizing
Adds shine
Seals hair

What We Don't Like

Unhygienic container

This product is made by a mother-daughter duo who both have 4C hair. The plant-based formula is a great alternative to traditional grease products which may contain harmful chemicals. Although it was designed with little ones in mind, this pomade is great for all ages to moisturize the scalp, seal the hair, and add shine.

Hair Type: 4C | Scent: Orange pomade | Size: 4 oz. | Byrdie Clean: Yes

View On Naturallclub.com

What We Like

Moisturizing
Soothing
Vegan

What We Don't Like

Must thaw before using

Sometimes it can be hard to tell if your time spent deep conditioning is actually worth it, but this treatment is so moisturizing and soothing that you’ll definitely notice the difference. The raw avocado is a hero to dry, thirsty hair, and the ingredients are so fresh that it has to be kept in the freezer (simply thaw for about 30 minutes before using).

Hair Type: All | Size: 4 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes

Glow By Daye “The Safari” Conditioning Cap

View On Glowbydaye.com

What We Like

Distributes heat evenly
Warms up fast
Enhances product penetration

What We Don't Like

Pricey

Moisture retention is usually the biggest concern for 4C hair, so deep conditioning with heat should definitely be a regular part of your regimen. This innovative cap is filled with flaxseeds meant to help provide even heat across the scalp. Just pop it in the microwave for about 90 seconds—it will keep your deep conditioning treatment warm for 20-30 minutes.

Material: Microfiber cotton, cotton, and nylon | Colors: 6

Carol’s Daughter Coco Crème Curl Quenching Deep Moisture Mask

View On IHerb View On Walmart

What We Like

Adds shine
Strengthens
Smells good

What We Don't Like

Unhygienic container

This mask is a savior to dry and thirsty curls. It claims to leave your hair stronger, shinier, and softer—and users agree. Jacqueline Tayler is a Brooklyn-based program manager who cites this mask as one of her all-time favorites. “I love how it deeply penetrates my roots and smells like mango coconut heaven," says Taylor. "My braid outs last for days!”

Active Ingredients: Coconut oil, coconut milk, mango butter, murumuru butter | Hair Type: Dry, curly, coily | Free of: Silicones, parabens, petrolatum, mineral oil, artificial colors | Size: 12 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

Sulfate- and paraben-free
Moisturizing
Can use on wet or dry hair

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note that it can feel sticky

Detangling can be a chore, but it doesn’t have to lead to breakage and split ends. Jessica Tee, educator and owner of Slight Jewelry, swears by this slippery detangling product claiming, “This detangler became a staple for me early in my natural hair journey," Tee reflects. "My hair is super thick and this product does wonders—it also helps combs to glide through my hair." Tee even takes the detangler along with her to hair and braid appointments, adding that "the stylist always falls in love with it".

Size: 3 oz., 12 oz., or 16 oz. | Byrdie Clean: No

View On Amazon

What We Like

Flexible
Easy to grip
Smooths curls

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note the brush comes apart easily

When detangling kinks and coils, it’s always important to be patient and to use a quality brush that won’t snag at your textured hair. This brush has become super popular on social media and it’s easy to see why. It has flexible moving arms that act more like your own fingers to bend as it detangles your tresses, and it also has a comfortable and sturdy grip, making it great for smoothing curls when you're doing a wash and go.

Hair Type: All | Shape: Pronged | Bristle Material: Plastic | Wet or Dry: Both

View On Ulta

What We Like

Moisturizing
Provides touchable curls
Recyclable packaging

What We Don't Like

Some may prefer a stronger hold

For those of us who love to rock twist outs and braid outs with definition and medium hold, this gel formula is the way to go. The creamy formula is more hydrating than the average gel and is packed with aloe vera, coconut oil, and cacay oil for bouncy and juicy curls.

Hair Type: Curly, coily, textured | Hold: Medium hold | Size: 3 fl. oz., 9.8 fl. oz., or 25 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No

View On Ulta

What We Like

Moisturizing
Affordable
Vegan

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note it can flake

This curl cream is packed with a blend of rice, keratin, amino acids, and enzymes meant to hydrate and condition your curls. Mimi McDavid-Williams recommends this product for it’s softening and moisturizing abilities. She says, “My hair typically doesn't retain moisture, but this product actually locks it in and makes my curls feel soft."

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

View On Amazon View On Sallybeauty.com View On Walgreens

What We Like

Affordable
Promotes hair growth
Helpful dropper applicator

What We Don't Like

Strong scent

While you’re spending time caring for your hair, don’t forget to pay some necessary attention to your scalp. This nutrient-rich formula has a handy dropper applicator that makes application super easy. It also contains 30 essential oils (including rosemary and mint) and is infused with biotin meant to promote growth, according to the brand.

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Twisting Souffle

View On Amazon View On Sallybeauty.com

What We Like

Long-lasting
Adds definition
Lightweight

What We Don't Like

Unhygienic container

As a busy law student, Cherice McGlone knows all about managing 4c hair on the go. She recommends this twisting souffle for its long-lasting results. She says, “My braid outs and twist outs are more defined and last longer. Even if I do twists on hair that isn't freshly washed or is in between styles, this souffle always gives my hair some definition when I take them down.”

View On Macy's View On Sallybeauty.com

What We Like

Detangles
Lightweight
Provides UV protection

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note that it can feel sticky

This heat protectant gets major points for also working as a detangler. Whether you’re going to blow-dry and straighten your hair or get your curls to pop with a diffuser, this lightweight water-based spray promises to protect from damaging UV rays and hot styling tools. Users report silkier blowouts and less frizzy curls.

Active Ingredients: Biotin, coconut oil, hydrolyzed quinoa, eucalyptus oil | Hair Type: All | Size: 4 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No

View On Amazon View On Sallybeauty.com

What We Like

A little goes a long way
Gentle
Smells good

What We Don't Like

Unhygienic container

Lactation coach Candace Dru swears by this conditioner. “It's the all-in-one aspect for me," she says. "It doesn’t require a large amount of product to do a good job and it’s gentle enough to use on my young toddler who is sensitive to many things." Plus, Dru raved about how the product both smells and feels good when she applies it.

Hair Type: Curly, color-treated | Size: 16 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No

Design Essentials Natural Honey & Shea Edge Tamer

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

Non-greasy
Adds shine
Long-lasting

What We Don't Like

Unhygienic container

When you’re rocking a slicked-back look, the last thing you want is for your edges to misbehave as soon as you walk out of the door. This product does exactly what it claims to do, and that's tame unruly edges. The unique, non-greasy formula is infused with honey and shea butter meant to nourish your hair. It also delivers shine without build-up, so you can reapply day after day for a long-lasting hold.

Active Ingredients: Curly | Hold: Firm | Size: 3.7 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No

What to Look For in Products For 4C Hair

Sulfate-Free

You may have heard that it's important to occasionally use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup from your hair, and those often contain drying sulfates. Luckily, there are plenty of ingredients that can perform deep cleansing without stripping the hair and scalp of its much-needed natural oils. Hairstylist, master cosmetologist, and product educator for The Mane Choice Ebony Bomani suggests shampoos that contain aloe vera, Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract, and rosemary leaf for this purpose.

Natural Ingredients

From shea butter to avocado oil to amino acids, plant-based and whole-food ingredients can provide excellent benefits for 4C hair. That doesn't mean you need to give up your favorite products if they aren't all-natural, though; plenty of commercial products that have chemical ingredients you might find helpful are also infused with hair health-boosting natural ingredients, too.

Moisture Enhancers

For those with 4C hair, hydration can be particularly challenging: When hair is kinky-coily, curly, or wavy, it's a whole lot harder for the natural oils to travel down the shaft. Because of this, you'll want to look for products that offer moisturizing in a manner that can penetrate. Whether that's a conditioning cap or a leave-in conditioner made for 4C hair, your hair will look its best with additional moisture.

FAQ

What should you put in 4C hair?

Whether you're transitioning to natural hair or you've been natural for ages, it's helpful to have a solid routine down. The biggest factors are generally avoiding sulfates and being sure to moisturize sufficiently and often. Black hair experts recommend caution with bleaching and heat styling, and steering clear of tight buns and ponies, as well.
How do you keep your 4C hair moisturized?

There are numerous ways to keep 4C hair moisturized and well-hydrated. Among them, experts recommend protection from the elements with a scarf or hat in winter, deep conditioning treatments, protective styles such as braids, and cream-based products during cold months.
What products will make 4C hair curly?

All of the products included here should assist in making your tresses as bouncy as can be. Curl enhancers such as curl creams are also a good choice. Celebrity hairstylist and owner of Deeper Than Hair in Philadelphia Annagjid “Kee” Taylor says that "a curl cream is a styling cream that helps to define your natural curls... not only will it give curls definition, but it will provide them with moisture you need to eliminate frizz.”
How often should 4C hair be washed?

4C hair experts recommend washing less often than co-washing, which is when you use a single product to wash and condition. By only washing and conditioning separately on occasion—such as once a month—you'll help your hair and scalp keep its needed oils, and mitigate dryness in between washes.