If you have 4c curls, you know it can be a bit of learning experience. As a result, it might be some time before you fully understand all the nuances of caring for your curls. In order to keep your curls their most healthiest, you might want to consider stretching them. Here’s why you should keep your 4c curls stretched. Give these suggestions a try, and let us know if it works for you.
Why You Should Keep Your 4c Curls Stretched
Since your curls are naturally prone to shrinkage, as well as dryness, you might notice your tightly-coiled strands are more difficult to take care of than other types of curly hair. The tighter the curl pattern, the more difficult it is for oils and your natural sebum to make the trek down the curl shaft, which provides natural moisture. Even though shrinkage is actually an indicator of healthy, moisturized curls, it can still be frustrating to deal with.
Stretching your curls will help your strands retain natural moisture, makes it easier for your scalp’s oils to travel down the shaft, and therefore helps minimize damage. Additionally, there are several protective hair styles that work much better on stretched out curls anyway.
In order to achieve a gentle stretch in your strands, therefore are a few techniques you can try. For starters, give the classic braids and twist-outs a try. Apply your usual products, twist or braid your curls, and then allow your strands to completely dry. Then, remove the braids or twists, and your curls will be naturally stretched.
If twists or braids aren’t for you, you might consider trying some bantu knots. Use your favorite product throughout your curls, and then separate your strands into even sections. Then, twist your hair into knots and secure them. Allow the hair to dry completely, and then remove the knots, and gently fluff your strands.
In addition to helping your maintain the overall health of your strands, stretching your strands makes it much easier to style your curls. Therefore, you might find yourself able to experiment more with different kinds of styles, as your strands will be much easier to style.