Those with 4c hair know that it is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, 4c hair is incredibly versatile and can be worn in a number of styles. On the other hand, 4c hair is also notoriously difficult to manage. It is prone to tangles and knots, and can quickly become dry and brittle. I personally think that 4c hair is beautiful and deserves to be celebrated! If you want to learn how to make 4c hair curly, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share three methods that you can use to achieve beautiful, bouncy curls.
More: How to Take Care of 4C Hair: The Complete Guide
14 techniques to make 4c hair curly
There are some tried-and-true methods for making 4c hair curly. If you’re looking for ways to get gorgeous, bouncy curls, try one of the following techniques:
1. The pineapple technique
The pineapple method is a quick and easy way to achieve beautiful, cascading curls. To start, simply gather your hair into a high ponytail on top of your head, securing it with soft elastic. Then, take a wide-tooth comb and gently loosen the hair around the crown of your head, creating a soft halo effect. Next, twist your hair into a loose bun, tucking the ends underneath. Finally, secure the bun with another elastic or a few bobby pins. Leave your hair in this style overnight, and in the morning, you’ll wake up with gorgeous, curl definition! The pineapple method is especially ideal for 4c hair types as it helps to minimize frizz and maximize shine. Plus, it’s a great heat-free alternative for those days when you want to give your strands a break from styling tools.
2. The twist-out technique
This is one of the most popular methods for curling 4c hair. To do a twist-out, you first need to divide your hair into sections. Then, take small sections of hair and twist them around your finger until they form coils. Once all your hair is twisted, allow it to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. When your hair is completely dry, undo the twists and style as desired. You can also use this method to achieve other styles like Bantu knots and flat twists.
More: How to Dry Curly Hair Without a Diffuser
3. The braid-out technique
This method can be done on either dry or wet hair. You will need to section your hair off into 4-6 parts, depending on the thickness of your hair. Braid each section tightly, using either a regular braid or a Dutch braid. Once all sections are braided, allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat to speed up the process. When your hair is completely dry, undo the braids and style as desired. You can use a light-holding product if needed.
4. The Bantu knot-out technique
This is a popular way to achieve defined, bouncy curls on 4c hair. To do a Bantu knot-out, start by detangling your hair and parting it into small sections. Then, take each section and twist it around itself until it forms a tight coil. Once all of your hair is in coils, use a brush to smooth down the surface of each coil and secure it with a bobby pin. Finally, wrap your head in a scarf or shower cap and allow the coils to set overnight. In the morning, undo the bobby pins and let your hair down for gorgeous, springy curls!
5. The banding technique
The banding method is a popular way to curl 4c hair. It involves using small elastics to section the hair and then wrapping each section around itself to form a coil. The banding method is a great way to achieve defined, uniform curls, and it can be used on both wet and dry hair. There are a few things to keep in mind when banding 4c hair, however. First, make sure that your elastics are not too tight, as this can cause breakage. Secondly, you may need to use more than one elastic per section, depending on the thickness of your hair. Finally, be patient! The banding method can take some time to master, but the results are definitely worth it.
6. The two-strand twist technique
The two-strand twist method is another way to curl 4c hair. This method involves taking two sections of hair and twisting them around each other. To do this, start by parting your hair into two sections. Then, take a small section of hair from one of the sections and twist it around a section of hair from the other section. Continue doing this until all of the hair is twisted. Once your hair is fully twisted, allow it to air dry or use a diffuser to dry it. When your hair is completely dry, untwist the sections and style as desired. The two-strand twist method is a great way to achieve long-lasting curls that are soft and bouncy.
More: How to Sleep With Wavy Hair With 5 Tips
7. The roller set technique
The roller set is a classic way to achieve well-defined curls, and it works particularly well on 4c hair. To start, the hair is shampooed and conditioned, then towels are used to remove excess moisture. Next, a generous amount of curl cream is applied, starting at the roots and working downwards. Once the curl cream is evenly distributed, the hair is divided into small sections and each section is rolled onto a velcro roller. The rollers are then left in place for several hours to allow the curls to set. Finally, the rollers are removed and the hair is lightly misted with a holding spray. The result is a head of beautiful, bouncy curls that will last for days.
8. The curlformers technique
The curlformers method is an unpopular way to curl 4c hair. The main advantage of this method is that it does not require heat, which can be damaging to your hair. To use this method, start by wetting your hair and applying a leave-in conditioner. Then, take small sections of your hair and place them in the curlformers. Leave the curlformers in for several hours or overnight, then remove them and style your hair as desired. This method can take some practice to master, but it is a great way to achieve beautiful, bouncy curls without damaging your hair.
9. The perm technique
The perm method is a popular choice for those with 4c hair, as it uses chemicals to break down the bonds in your hair and reform them into new shapes. This can create long-lasting curls that are less likely to frizz or fall flat. To achieve the best results, be sure to work with a stylist who is experienced in curling 4c hair. With their help, you can achieve the perfect perm that will give you the gorgeous, bouncy curls you’ve always wanted.
10. The Flexi rod technique
The Flexi rod method is a common way to curl 4c hair. It is gentle, does not require any heat, and the results are long-lasting. This method is also very versatile, as it can be used to create loose waves or tighter curls. To begin, you will need to gather some supplies. Flexi rods come in a variety of sizes, so you will need to choose the size that best suits your desired look. You will also need a leave-in conditioner and some kind of styling product, such as mousse or gel. Once you have everything you need, it is time to get started. Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then apply the leave-in conditioner. Next, take small sections of hair and wrap them around the Flexi rods. Be sure to wrap the hair in different directions so that you get a nice mix of curls. Finally, allow your hair to air dry or sit under a hooded dryer for about 30 minutes. Once your hair is dry, carefully remove the Flexi rods and enjoy your beautiful new curls!
11. The flat twist technique
This method works best on hair that is damp or wet. To start, divide your hair into two sections. Then, take a small section of hair from the top layer and twist it around a strand of hair from the bottom layer. Continue twisting the hair until you reach the end of the strand. When you get to the end, tuck the end of the twist under itself and secure it with a bobby pin. Repeat this process until all of your hair is twisted. Once your hair is fully twisted, allow it to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat to speed up the process. When your hair is dry, untwist each twist and enjoy your beautiful, curly hair!
12. The straw set technique
This is a quick and easy way to get tight, defined curls without the use of heat or chemicals. To do a straw set, you will need to create small sections in your hair and then wrap each section around a straw. Once all of your hair is wrapped, you will need to let it sit for several hours or overnight. The longer you leave it, the tighter the curls will be. When you are ready to remove the straws, simply unwrap each section and style as desired.
More: 4C Hair All F.A.Q – Answered!
13. The finger coiling technique
The finger coiling method is excellent to get 4c hair curly. Start by dampening your hair with a spray bottle filled with water. Next, apply a generous amount of curl cream to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Once the curl cream is evenly distributed, use your fingers to coil small sections of hair around your fingertips. Continue until all of your hair is in coils. Then, cover your head with a shower cap and let the curl cream sit as long as possible, usually about 60 minutes to 8 hours. When the time is up, remove the shower cap and you should have beautiful, bouncy curls.
14. The headband method
One of the best ways to get defined, long-lasting curls is by using the headband method. This method is ideal for 4c hair, as it helps to stretch out the strands and provides a nice, tight curl. To start, simply wet your hair and apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner. Next, take a headband and place it around your head, making sure that the band is nice and tight. Then, starting at the back of your head, take small sections of hair and wrap them around the headband. Once all of your hair has been wrapped, allow your hair to air dry or sit under a hooded dryer for best results. After a few hours, remove the headband and enjoy your new curly ‘do!
More: How to Thicken 4C Hair With 6 Proven Methods
Final thoughts
There are a variety of methods that can be used to get curly hair, depending on your desired look and the type of curl you want. The 13 methods we’ve listed can work for any type of hair, but some methods may work better than others based on your individual needs. We hope this article has helped give you a good starting point for finding the perfect method to achieve beautiful curls without using heat or chemicals. Now you know how to make 4c hair curly, have fun trying out different techniques and find what works best for you!
