One of the most common goals for those of us with 4C hair is to achieve soft, manageable, and healthy hair. 4C hair, with its tight coils and zigzag patterns, can be prone to dryness and tangles, making it seem challenging to keep it soft. But worry not! With the right products and a consistent routine, you can transform your hair into a soft, flourishing crown. Here’s a detailed guide on the best products to use for making your 4C natural hair soft.

Feel like your hair has been the same length forever, I’ve an Ebook that will help you grow your hair healthier, longer and thicker. Grab your copy here… Also, check out all the Ebooks,guides and journals that will go a long way in your hair care journey here.

When I started my natural hair journey, my hair would feel hard making it difficult to comb, style or braid. Through the journey have learned how to make it soft, manageable, painless, minimize breakage and tangling. On this post, I share the products to use coupled up with practices to adopt for softer hair.

“Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.”

Go from Hard to Soft hair with These Products

1. Moisturizing Shampoos

Start your wash day with a hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo that won’t strip your hair of its natural oils. Moisturizing shampoos break down the dirt, sweat and product build-up without stripping off the natural oils that conditions and softens our hair.

Clarifying shampoos do strip off the natural oils leaving your hair dry. These shampoos should be used as needed for example when you’ve taken down a long term protective styles or you’ve been using lots and heavy styling products. Always use a moisturizing deep conditioner immediately after rinsing off clarifying shampoos.

Recommended Products:

• SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
  • This shampoo is packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and argan oil, which help to cleanse and moisturize your hair.
• Camille Rose Coconut Water Curl Cleanse, Sulfate Free Hydrating Shampoo
  • With its gentle formula, this shampoo effectively cleanses while maintaining moisture balance, thanks to castor and aniseed oils.

2. Deep Conditioners

Deep conditioning is a must for softening 4C hair. Look for products that provide intense hydration and repair. Go for moisturizing deep conditioners and if your hair needs some protein boost, use balanced deep conditioners that have a moisture-protein balance. Always apply a generous amount of deep conditioner and use heat to infuse the moisturizing nutrients.

Recommended Products:

• TGIN Honey Miracle Hair Mask
  • This deep conditioner is enriched with raw honey and olive oil, which penetrate deeply to soften and nourish your hair.
• Mielle Organics Babassu Oil & Mint Deep Conditioner
  • Formulated with babassu oil and mint, this deep conditioner revitalizes and strengthens your hair while adding softness.

Related posts;

• How to use moisturizing deep conditioners for maximum hydration.
• Moisturizing deep conditioners Vs protein treatments/ protein deep conditioners.
• Benefits of using protein deep conditioners.
• 5 Deep conditioning mistakes to avoid
• 12 Best protein treatments for damaged hair.

3. Leave-In Conditioners

A good leave-in conditioner provides lasting moisture and makes detangling a breeze. Leave-in Conditioners will keep your hair moisturized and soft between wash days. Create a moisturizing routine that works for your hair’s porosity and get leave-in conditioners that will work for your hair type.

Recommended Products:

• Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner
  • Lightweight yet effective, this leave-in conditioner smooths the hair cuticle and adds moisture without weighing down your hair.
• Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream
  • This creamy leave-in conditioner is perfect for thick, 4C hair, providing intense moisture and repair.

Related posts;

• Best moisturizing leave-in conditioners for softer hair.
• Leave-in Conditioners with protein that will strengthen your hair and repair damage.
• How to apply moisturizing products for moisturized and soft hair.
• Best time to moisturize your hair for desired results.
• Must have moisturizing products for natural hair.
• Leave-in conditioners Vs Deep conditioners on 4C natural hair.
• How I moisturize 4C natural hair between wash days.

4. Moisturizing Creams and Butters

Moisturizing creams and butters help to lock in moisture and keep your hair soft and manageable.

Recommended Products:

• SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
  • This rich, creamy product adds moisture and shine while reducing frizz, making your curls soft and defined.
• TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer
  • With shea butter and vitamin E, this moisturizer provides long-lasting hydration and softness.

Related posts:

• Hair butters for sealing in the moisture into your strands.
• Best curl creams for defined and soft hair.
• Benefits of using hair butters when moisturizing hair.

5. Oils

Oils are essential for sealing in moisture and adding an extra layer of softness and shine to your hair. Find more natural hair friendly oils that you can add to your hair routine here.

Recommended Products:

• Jamaican Black Castor Oil
  • Known for its thick consistency, this oil is great for sealing in moisture and promoting hair growth.
• Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil
  • This lightweight oil blend is perfect for adding shine and reducing frizz while stimulating the scalp.

6. Hydrating Sprays

Hydrating sprays are perfect for refreshing your hair between washes and keeping it soft and moisturized. These are perfect when wearing low manipulation and protective styles.

Recommended Products:

• Alikay Naturals Lemongrass Leave-In Conditioner
  • This hydrating spray revitalizes your curls and keeps them soft and manageable throughout the day.
• Jane Carter Solution Revitalizing Leave-In Conditioner
  • Lightweight and hydrating, this spray is great for daily moisture and softness.

Related post: Hydrating mists and curl refreshers for soft hair and hairstyles

Tips for Keeping 4C Hair Soft

1. Consistent Moisturizing:

• Moisturize your hair regularly, focusing on your ends, which are the oldest and most prone to dryness.

2. Protective Styling:

• Incorporate protective styles like braids, twists, or buns to minimize manipulation and breakage.

3. Satin or Silk:

• Sleep with a satin or silk scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase to reduce friction and retain moisture.

4. Gentle Detangling:

• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up. Go for detanglers with a good slip.

5. Hydration from Within:

• Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out.

Achieving soft, manageable 4C hair is possible with the right products and a consistent routine. By incorporating these moisturizing and nourishing products into your hair care regimen, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the softness and overall health of your hair. Remember, the key is to listen to your hair’s needs and be patient with the process.

Do you have any favorite products or tips for keeping your 4C hair soft? Share them in the comments below!