Shrinkage is a common issue for those with curly or kinky hair. When the hair is wet, it can appear to be much longer than when it is dry. This is because the hair shaft is more elongated when it is saturated with water. As the hair dries, it contracts and shrinks back to its natural shape. This can cause the hair to appear much shorter and can make it difficult to style. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to stop shrinkage on natural 4c hair.
What causes shrinkage?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to shrinkage, including the porosity of the hair, the length of the hair, and the amount of humidity in the air.
- Those with high porosity hair tend to experience more shrinkage, as their hair shafts are more porous and absorb more water.
- In addition, longer hair is more likely to shrink than shorter hair, as there is more length for the hair to contract.
- Finally, high humidity can also cause shrinkage, as the damp air can cause the hair to swell.
While shrinkage can be frustrating, there are a number of ways to combat it.
6 tips to stop shrinkage on natural 4c hair
There are a few things you can do to reduce shrinkage and keep your natural hair looking its best.
1. Stretch your hair
While there are a number of products that claim to help reduce shrinkage, one of the simplest and most effective solutions is stretching. Stretching can be done with a variety of methods, including braiding, twisting, and using a blow dryer on low heat. By gently stretching your hair while it’s wet, you can create a looser curl pattern that will result in less shrinkage once your hair dries. In addition to reducing shrinkage, stretching can also help to add definition and reduce frizz. As a result, it’s an essential step for anyone who wants to achieve sleek, manageable natural hair.
More: How to Stretch 4C Hair With and Without Heat
2. Use coconut milk
Coconut milk is often lauded for its benefits to natural hair, and for good reason. This milk contains a high amount of fat, which helps to coat the hair shaft and prevent shrinkage. In addition, coconut milk is rich in proteins and vitamins that can help to strengthen and condition the hair. As a result, coconut milk can be an effective way to reduce shrinkage on natural 4c hair. When applied before shampooing, it can help to lock in moisture and prevent the hair from drying out. In addition, coconut milk can be used as a leave-in conditioner to help keep the hair hydrated and prevent shrinkage. When used regularly, coconut milk can help to improve the overall health of natural 4c hair.
3. Use aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel is often used as a natural remedy for a variety of skin conditions, including burns, blisters, and insect bites. However, aloe vera gel can also be used to help reduce shrinkage on natural hair 4c. The reason why aloe vera gel helps reduce shrinkage on natural hair 4c is that it contains properties that help to hydrate and moisturize the hair. In addition, aloe vera gel helps to improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can promote healthy hair growth. Lastly, aloe vera gel contains enzymes that help to break down dead skin cells and remove impurities from the scalp. As a result, aloe vera gel can help to keep the scalp and hair clean and healthy, which can reduce shrinkage on natural hair 4c.
4. Henna treatment
One of the main reasons why henna treatment can help reduce shrinkage on natural hair 4c is because it helps to strengthen the hair shaft. The henna plant contains a number of chemicals that have been shown to be effective in improving the strength and elasticity of hair, which in turn can help to reduce shrinkage. In addition, henna treatment can also help to improve the texture of natural hair 4c, making it more manageable and less likely to break. Finally, henna treatment can also help to protect the hair from environmental damage, such as sun exposure and pollution. This can further prevent shrinkage and keep natural hair 4c looking healthy and strong.
More: Best keratin treatment for 4c hair
5. Moisturize frequently
As said above, shrinkage occurs when the hair is dry. In order to combat shrinkage, it’s important to keep your natural hair 4c moisturized. This can be done by using a variety of methods, including deep conditioning, protein treatments, and hot oil treatments. In addition, it’s important to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner that are designed for natural hair 4c. By keeping your hair hydrated, you can help to prevent shrinkage and keep your natural hair 4c looking its best.
More: How to Moisturize 4C Hair: The Complete Guide
6. Reduce frizz
One of the biggest contributors to shrinkage is frizz. Frizz occurs when the hair’s cuticle lifts, allowing moisture to enter the strand and causing it to swell. This swelling puts pressure on the cortex, leading to the hair shaft curling in on itself and creating the appearance of shrinkage. By reducing frizz, you can help to reduce shrinkage and achieve more defined moisturized curls.
There are a number of ways to reduce frizz, including using a deep conditioner or leave-in conditioner and avoiding heat damage. Deep conditioning helps to hydrate the hair and fortify the cuticle, making it less likely to lift and allowing your curls to retain their shape. Leave-in conditioners provide lasting moisture and can help to smooth down the hair’s cuticle. Heat damage is a major cause of frizz, so avoiding hot tools and protecting your hair from the sun is essential.
Final thoughts
Now you know how to stop shrinkage on natural 4c hair. Shrinkage is a common issue for those with natural hair 4c, but it doesn’t have to be a problem. There are a number of things you can do to reduce shrinkage. This article has provided some of the best tips to stop shrinkage on natural hair 4c. Try one or more of these methods and you’ll be on your way to achieving defined moisturized curls.
