As a hairstylist with a whole lot of love for all things hair, I know the struggle of finding the perfect product to care for your luscious locks.
And let’s be real, with 4c hair, it can be especially challenging to find that holy grail shampoo that ticks all the right boxes. But don’t you worry, because today, we’re diving into the world of the best shampoos for 4c hair.
So, whether you’re a 4c hair queen or you’re shopping for a loved one, I’ve got you covered with the ultimate 4c hair shampoo review that’ll have your curls looking and feeling fabulous in no time! Let’s get to it!
Why Do You Need Shampoo for Type 4 Hair?
I’ve seen and worked with a myriad of hair textures, but 4C hair has always held a special place in my heart. This beautifully unique and tightly coiled texture demands extra love and care to maintain its health and luster.
When it comes to cleansing, choosing the right shampoo for 4C hair is essential. Let me walk you through the reasons why.
Embracing the Kinks and Coils
One of the most distinctive characteristics of 4C hair is its coily pattern, which tends to make it more prone to dryness and breakage. A shampoo specifically designed for 4C hair will gently cleanse without stripping away the hair’s natural oils.
This helps maintain the inherent vibrancy of the kinks and coils, allowing your hair to retain its elasticity and natural bounce.
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration
4C hair craves moisture like a flower craves sunshine. A shampoo specifically formulated for 4C hair will not only cleanse but also deliver nourishment to the hair shaft.
The right blend of ingredients can work wonders in restoring hydration, ultimately giving your hair the strength and moisture it needs to thrive.
Protecting Your Hair’s Natural Barrier
While all hair types need to maintain their natural barrier, it’s particularly crucial for 4C hair due to its delicate structure. A shampoo designed for 4C hair will protect the hair’s natural barrier by using a blend of gentle, sulfate-free cleansers that effectively remove dirt and buildup without causing harm.
This helps keep your hair’s delicate balance in check, preventing damage and ensuring that your strands remain healthy and strong.
Unleashing Your Hair’s Inner Glow
The right shampoo for 4C hair not only cleanses and hydrates, but also promotes shine and luster. Look for a shampoo with natural oils, such as avocado or almond oil, which can enhance your hair’s natural shine and help you rock that head-turning 4C glow.
Infusing Your Hair with Nutrients
4C hair benefits from an extra boost of nourishment to combat dryness and brittleness. A shampoo formulated for 4C hair will often include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that strengthen and support hair growth. This nutrient infusion aids in overall hair health, allowing your tresses to reach their full potential.
So, my fellow 4C hair enthusiasts, embrace your glorious texture and never underestimate the power of the right shampoo. It’s the key to unlocking your hair’s full potential, leaving you with a crowning glory that is as vibrant, resilient, and beautiful as you are.
Top 7 Best Shampoos for Natural 4C Hair Reviewed
- MIZANI Moisture Fusion Moisture Rich Shampoo – Top Pick
- Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Runner Up
- AG Care Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo
- Shea Moisture 4C Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set
- Kinky Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo
- tgin Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo For Natural Hair
- Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo
1. MIZANI Moisture Fusion Moisture Rich Shampoo – Top Pick
You can also find this product on Sephora.
Active Ingredients: Cupuaçu Butter, Argan Oil and Honey
Hair Type: Dry
Size: 16.9 Fl Oz
Today, I want to introduce you to the Mizani Moisture Rich Shampoo – a gem I recently discovered that has earned a top spot on my list of the best shampoos for 4C hair.
So, what sets Mizani Shampoo apart? The secret lies in its blend of natural ingredients. Cupuaçu butter, argan oil, and honey work harmoniously to provide a hydrating, nutrient-packed formula that doesn’t compromise the integrity of your curls.
The result? Soft, bouncy, and easily detangled 4C curls that will leave you feeling confident and refreshed. While the shampoo’s effectiveness is undeniable, some users have noted a downside: its strong perfume scent.
If you prefer shampoos with a more natural or subtle fragrance, this might be something to consider. Nonetheless, the overall benefits of the shampoo still make it a worthwhile option.
2. Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Runner Up
You can also find this product on Amazon.
Active Ingredients: Almond and Avocado
Hair Type: Dry
Size: 32 Fl Oz
Let’s move on to the Design Essentials sulfate-free shampoo for 4c hair which has secured the number 2 spot in our list.
The shampoo’s gentle yet effective cleansing formula sets it apart from many other products on the market. It doesn’t strip your hair of its natural oils, which is essential for maintaining a healthy moisture balance in 4C hair.
Its sulfate-free formulation is kind to your scalp and hair, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or who are prone to irritation. The combination of almond and avocado in this shampoo truly makes it unique.
Almond oil is known for its nourishing properties and ability to add a luminous shine to your hair, while avocado oil strengthens the hair shaft, preventing breakage and providing intense moisture.
This powerful duo works together to leave your hair feeling soft, hydrated, and manageable. Despite its many benefits, let’s discuss some of the drawbacks I experienced while using this product.
I really wanted to balance this review with some real drawbacks but I can’t really find any considering the ingredients and effectiveness. The twist cap design is a real inconvenience, as it is not easy to open and close, which can make it less travel-friendly and prone to messes and drying out.
3. AG Care Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Premium Pick
Active Ingredients: Apple cider vinegar
Hair Type: All
Size: 12 Fl Oz
The plant-based apple cider vinegar shampoo by AG Care caught my attention with its gentle cleansing and hydrating properties, delivering hydration, shine, and frizz-free results.
Though it has a few shortcomings, this shampoo remains a strong contender in the world of hair care. Let me walk you through its advantages, potential downsides, and some tips on how to use it.
The 100% vegan formula of AG Care shampoo is ideal for all hair types and textures, including normal, textured, curly, dry, colored, or chemically treated hair.
Its sulfate-free composition ensures moisturized and frizz-free hair, while minimizing scalp and skin irritation. Apple cider vinegar restores the natural pH balance of your hair, promoting scalp health and enhancing shine.
Furthermore, with 98% plant-based ingredients, this shampoo is infused with lavender, lemongrass, and rosemary, providing a light fragrance and clean-boosting power.
However, there are a couple of downsides to consider. Some users have reported issues with the AG Care packaging, particularly the pump, which doesn’t always return to its original position after being pressed down.
This inconvenience seems to be related to the shampoo’s thick consistency. Additionally, the scent may not be universally appealing, with some users preferring a different fragrance. Despite these drawbacks, the product remains effective in cleansing and moisturizing various hair types, including 4C hair.
4. Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set – Best Shampoo and Conditioner for 4C Hair
Active Ingredients: Manuka Honey, Mafura Oil, Baobab Oil
Hair Type: All
Size: 13 Fl Oz
Ranked at number 4 out of 7, Shea Moisture hydrating and repairing regimen offers an excellent solution for those seeking to revive their hair from chemical or over-processing damage, while keeping in mind some potential drawbacks.
What sets Shea Moisture shampoo and conditioner apart is its remarkable blend of all-natural ingredients. The star of the show is Manuka honey, a native New Zealand ingredient known for its ability to attract and retain moisture.
As someone with 4C hair, you know all too well that moisture is crucial for the health and manageability of your locks. The Manuka honey in this formula works wonders in providing that much-needed hydration.
The nourishing Mafura oil is another essential component of Shea Moisture set. It contributes to healthier-looking and feeling hair by providing moisture and softness.
The combination of organic Shea butter and Manuka honey helps to revitalize dry and damaged hair, ensuring that it stays conditioned and manageable.
However, it’s important to note that some users have expressed concerns about the natural smell of the product, which might not appeal to everyone. This aroma is a trade-off for a “clean” product that avoids chemicals and synthetic perfumes.
5. Kinky Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo Sulfate Free
You can also find this product on Bed Bath & Beyond.
Active Ingredients: Mandarin Orange
Hair Type: Kinky-Curly-Wavy
Size: 8 Fl Oz
Kinky-Curly’s Shampoo has earned its spot as number 5 on my list of top 7 shampoos for 4C hair. Here’s a balanced perspective on the shampoo, taking into account both its advantages and disadvantages.
Kinky-Curly’s Shampoo is a blessing for those dealing with hard water. The unique formulation with phytic acid effectively removes hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can be detrimental to 4C hair.
This natural chelating agent derived from soy and corn ensures that your hair is free from buildup and feels softer after each wash. The shampoo’s blend of mandarin orange extract and sea kelp not only gently cleanses your hair and scalp but also helps maintain the much-needed moisture balance.
Retaining moisture is crucial for 4C hair, as it is more prone to dryness and breakage. Being sulfate-free, this shampoo is perfect for those with dry and damaged hair, and it’s gentle enough for everyday use.
The absence of alcohol, sodium-lauryl-sulfate, and parabens means that this shampoo is kind to your tresses and won’t strip them of their natural oils.
6. tgin Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo For Natural Hair
You can also find this product on Ulta.
Active Ingredients: Vitamin B5
Hair Type: Dry Hair,Curly Hair
Size: 13 Fl Oz
I recently came across the tgin Sulfate-Free Shampoo, and it has quickly become one of my go-to recommendations. Ranked at number 6 out of 7, this product is worth the attention it’s receiving.
In this review, I will share the advantages and downsides of this shampoo and provide some tips on how to use it effectively. Firstly, the sulfate-free formula is a significant advantage for anyone with 4C hair.
The absence of sulfates means that the shampoo cleanses your hair gently and effectively without stripping it of its natural oils. This is crucial for 4C hair, as it is often prone to dryness and requires a gentle approach.
Another advantage of the tgin Sulfate-Free Shampoo is its Pro Vitamin B5 infusion. This powerful ingredient works wonders in reducing breakage and increasing moisture retention.
As we all know, keeping our 4C hair moisturized is essential in maintaining its health, and this shampoo delivers just that. However, after using a couple of bottles, I must say that I’m not a fan of the packaging of the shampoo.
The bottle is made of stiff plastic, which makes it difficult to squeeze out the shampoo, causing discomfort to the hands. Furthermore, although the product has a pleasant scent, some users find the lack of lather in comparison to other sulfate-free shampoos disappointing. This could be a downside for those who prefer a richer lather when washing their hair.
7. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo
You can also find this product on Ulta.
Active Ingredients: Biotin
Hair Type: All
Size: 12 Fl Oz
Mielle Organics’ Rosemary Mint Shampoo has become quite popular in my salon.
The shampoo’s gentle formula is suitable for all hair types, including delicate 4C hair. It ensures that the hair remains moisturized after every wash, without stripping it of its natural oils.
The product is infused with biotin, a nutrient that helps strengthen weak and brittle hair, making it especially beneficial for 4C hair. Additionally, the Rosemary Mint collection not only has an invigorating scent but also stimulates blood circulation, promoting faster and thicker hair growth.
However, some users may find the smell not as pleasant as they would like. It’s important to keep in mind that individual preferences for scent may vary, so this may not be a concern for everyone.
Another downside to consider is that the shampoo might not be suitable for those with fine hair and an oily scalp, as it can feel too heavy and lead to further oiliness.
How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Kinky Hair?
Choosing the best shampoo for 4C hair is essential to maintaining healthy, vibrant curls. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect shampoo for your unique mane:
Prioritize Moisture: 4C hair craves hydration, so look for shampoos with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, or honey. Avoid sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Embrace Your Curl Pattern: Choose a shampoo specifically designed for curly, coily, or kinky hair to enhance your natural texture and promote curl definition.
Strengthen and Repair: Opt for shampoos that contain proteins and amino acids to fortify your hair, reducing breakage and split ends. Look for ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin, silk protein, or quinoa extract.
Scalp Care: A healthy scalp promotes growth, so choose a shampoo with soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, or chamomile to keep your scalp in tip-top shape.
Don’t Ignore Porosity: 4C hair can have low or high porosity, meaning it may struggle to absorb or retain moisture. Find a shampoo that caters to your hair’s porosity for optimal results.
How to Use Shampoo for 4C Hair?
I am thrilled to share with you some tips on how to properly use shampoo on your luscious locks.
Before hopping in the shower, detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb to prevent any knots or tangles from forming. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water and apply a quarter-sized amount of shampoo to your scalp.
Using your fingertips, massage the shampoo into your scalp, focusing on the roots where the most oil and dirt tend to accumulate. Be gentle and avoid rubbing your hair vigorously as this can lead to breakage and damage.
Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until all the shampoo is removed. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to replenish any lost moisture and maintain the health of your hair.
Remember to only shampoo your hair once or twice a week to avoid over-drying and stripping your hair of its natural oils. And always listen to your hair, it will tell you what it needs.
With these simple steps, you can keep your 4c hair looking and feeling its best. Happy washing!
FAQ
How often should 4C hair be washed?
The frequency at which 4C hair should be washed depends on various factors, including personal preference, hair type, and lifestyle. Generally, it is recommended to wash 4C hair every 7-14 days to prevent dryness and breakage. However, it’s important to pay attention to your hair’s needs and adjust your wash routine accordingly.
What shampoo is good for 4C hair?
When it comes to finding a good shampoo for 4C hair, it’s important to choose a product that’s gentle and moisturizing. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free, and contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter.
Summary
To wrap things up, my dear queens with 4c hair, taking care of your hair is a form of self-love. And what better way to show your hair some love than by using the best shampoo for your hair type?
Remember, 4c hair is unique and requires a little extra TLC. So, choose a shampoo that is gentle, nourishing, and specifically formulated for 4c hair.
And don’t forget to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair looking and feeling its best. By taking the time to properly care for your hair, you are not only nourishing your strands, but you are also nourishing your soul.
So, let your hair down, embrace your natural texture, and be proud of your beautiful 4c hair.
Also read:
- Best Co-Washes for Low Porosity Hair
- Best Co-Wash Conditioners for Natural Hair
- Best pH Balanced Shampoos
- Best Oils for Low Porosity Hair
- Best Detanglers for Natural Hair
References:
- Type 4C Hair: What It Is and How to Care for It – https://www.byrdie.com/type-4c-hair-6829373
- What Type of Hair Porosity Do You Have? – https://www.healthline.com/health/hair-porosity
Allyson Carter
Ally is a professional hairstylist with more than 6 years of experience, but hair has been her passion since early childhood. Here, at Hair Spies, she blogs about all things hairdressing, hair tools, and everyday hair care. Read more about Allyson here.
