The Andre Walker scale is an authoritative hair classification system . According to this scale, type 4a corresponds to frizzy hair. They are spiral-shaped. Thanks to this classification, it is possible to establish ways to care for and treat them by applying products that are suitable for them.
Andre Walker's Ladder
The scale established by Andre Walker is divided based on hair texture and thickness. There are four texture types, numbered from 1 to 4, and three thickness types, identified by letters. Hair type 4a corresponds to frizzy hair. Several specialists have adopted this system to guide them in hair care.
Characteristics of 4a hair
Belonging to type 4a, kinky hair should not be confused with curly hair, even though hair of this type looks similar. Hair is kinky when it is not possible to find well-defined curls. The hair is rolled on itself and its length is only visible when it is stretched. When kinky hair is wet, it becomes shorter.
Kinky hair looks thick, but it is actually quite thin. It appears thick because it clumps together and forms a large mass. 4a hair is classified as kinky curly. Its curls are small. They are tightly packed together. When the curls are stretched, they form an S shape. When the curls are released, they return to their natural shape.
Frizzy hair is not shiny. Sometimes highlights can be seen when the hair is healthy. This type of hair is rather fragile. It breaks when the care applied is not appropriate. Frizzy hair has a deficiency in terms of cuticles, protective sheaths that remain open on this type of hair. Because of this deficiency, frizzy hair is porous.
4a hair has problems with humidity, like all type 4 hair . When wet, the water quickly evaporates. This is a hair that dries out quickly. Therefore, it needs to be moisturized frequently. Frizzy hair reacts differently depending on the area where it is located. A temperate climate makes it dry, since sebum production is reduced.
Hair care for type 4a hair
Type 4a hair is largely associated with the afro style . It is not always easy to identify since different textures can coexist within the same hair. It requires a lot of care since it is vulnerable to the elements and even to brushes and heating instruments. It is essential to be well hydrated and well conditioned, otherwise its appearance can become dry and dull.
Moisturizing is indeed a priority for 4a hair . The scalp's natural oil cannot completely cover the hair strand because of its shape. For the same reasons, type 4a hair should not be washed too often. If shampoo is used every day, the hair may lose some of its natural oils. It is advisable to use a cleansing conditioner to wash the hair. Choose sulfate-free shampoo.
Moisturize hair of this type
To moisturize the hair, it is also possible to apply cream or oil that will also seal the moisture of the roots. There are also very effective moisturizing hair gels. The best oils for this type of hair are coconut, jojoba, Jamaican black castor, avocado and almond oils. All of these oils contain nutrients that are well suited for frizzy hair.
Coconut oil, among others, is beneficial for type 4a hair. It is advisable to massage the hair with this oil to stimulate circulation in the scalp. The hair receives oxygen and nutrients, which stimulates hair growth. Coconut oil contains beneficial nutrients as well as oxidants. It is an excellent source of vitamins E and K as well as iron.
Type 4a hair breaks easily. It sometimes looks like it is not growing. The strands of type 4a hair are flat. There are no visible folds or curves. This is why the hair needs to be deeply conditioned .
This type of hair is also vulnerable to heat. When styling with heat, it is necessary to protect it with a heat protectant. It should be applied just before the hair is curled or straightened. The hair should preferably be dried in the open air. Otherwise, it is absolutely necessary to dry it at a low temperature. With a hair dryer, it is best to use a diffuser at the same time, which distributes the heat properly and helps define the curls.
You also need to be careful with hair straightening. Too frequent straightening can cause type 4a hair to lose its natural curly texture. It all depends on whether you want to maintain the natural look of your hair. It should also be combed in sections to avoid breakage.
To detangle hair, it is best to use your fingers rather than a brush, which can cause hair loss. They are easier to detangle when wet. To style type 4a hair, a wide-toothed comb is best.
Treatments for this hair type should be chosen carefully. Type 4a hair does not tolerate hairstyles that add tension or pressure to the roots or scalp. Protective hairstyles should not be kept in for too long to avoid damaging the hair or causing hair loss. It is also important to protect it at night by covering it with a scarf and sleeping on a silk pillowcase.
