BEAUTY

How To Style And Maintain 4C Hair Type

Published

10 months ago

March 23, 2024

How To Style And Maintain 4C Hair Type | Fab.ng

Calling all black or coloured curl queens with 4C hair! Have you ever wondered why your hair shrinks so much after washing? If your hair coils up into tiny, springy curls that turn fuzzy when dry, you might have the 4C hair type! You have some of the most unique and beautiful hair textures the world has ever seen. This hair type is unique and beautiful, but it needs special care to stay healthy and stylish.

4C hair stands out for its incredibly tight coils, forming a dense and springy pattern that’s unlike any other. Unlike wavy hair, 4C hair’s coils are so tiny they might not show a clear curl definition at first glance.

The “4” in 4c actually refers to the coil pattern itself, being the tightest and kinkiest among all hair types. The “C” stands for “coily,” highlighting the springy, compact nature of the strands. Those tight coils make 4C hair incredibly strong. With proper care, it can withstand a lot of manipulation and styling.

Despite tight coils, 4C hair can be styled in countless ways. From bouncy twists to smooth bantu knots, there are so many styles you can whip up.

This hair type thrives on moisture. Regular deep conditioning treatments and leave-in conditioners are your best friends. They’ll keep your coils hydrated and bouncy and help prevent breakage. Protective styles like braids, twists, and locs are also lifesavers for 4C hair.

Knowing your hair type is like having a secret decoder ring for your hair care routine. It helps you understand how your curls naturally grow and what products will work best for them. That’s why you are seeing this guide. You’ll learn all the tricks to keeping your 4C hair healthy, hydrated, and styled to perfection. We’ll cover everything from washing and conditioning to rocking the most stunning hairstyles. So, buckle up and get ready to love your amazing 4C hair!

Challenges of Type 4C Hair

4C hair is gorgeous, but it can also be a bit of a handful! The tight coils demand some extra TLC. Brushing or styling too roughly can lead to breakage, so gentle handling is key. Moisture is your best friend! 4C hair tends to be on the dry side, so deep conditioning treatments are a must to keep those curls happy and healthy.

But that’s not all! Here are some other things 4C queens face:

Tangling: Those beautiful coils can love to knot themselves up if not detangled regularly. Brushing too harshly can worsen this, so using a wide-tooth comb and plenty of conditioner is your best bet.

Hair Shrinkage: Don’t be fooled by how short your hair seems! 4C hair can shrink a lot. Up to 75% shorter, in fact! This can be a shock, but understanding shrinkage is important for managing your hair’s length and achieving desired styles.

The Definition Dilemma: While 4C hair has its own natural definition, some women crave even more curl pop. The trick is to find styling techniques that work without being too rough. Braiding, twisting, and using curl-defining products can help achieve this without causing breakage.

Finding the Right Products: Not all hair products are created equal! 4C hair thrives on rich, moisturising formulas. Finding the right shampoo, conditioner, and styling products specifically designed for your hair type is crucial for keeping it healthy and manageable.

How to Maintain 4C Hair

How To Care For 4C Hair Texture? - HeyCurls

Growing long and healthy 4C hair takes time and a little know-how! It might take some trial and error to find the perfect products and routine for your hair, but there are some key things you can do to make things easier.

First, be patient! 4C hair grows, but because of its tight coils, it can shrink up a lot. This might make it seem like it’s not growing at all. Don’t get discouraged!

Here are some winning habits to help your 4C hair type reach its full potential:

Moisture is key: 4C hair tends to get dry really fast because of its tight coils. To keep your hair growing strong, you need to add moisture regularly. Use leave-in conditioners, deep conditioners, and hair masks to keep those curls happy and hydrated.

Be gentle: 4C hair can be fragile. Brushing and combing too harshly can lead to breakage. Detangle your hair gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb when it’s wet and loaded with conditioner.

Protective styles are your friend: Braids, twists, locs, and bantu knots are great ways to style your hair while protecting it from breakage. These styles help retain length and keep your hair moisturized.

Trims: Split ends can travel up the hair shaft and cause breakage. Getting regular trims (every 6–8 weeks) will help keep your ends healthy and prevent them from traveling up the hair strand.

Listen to your hair: Every head of hair is different, so pay attention to how your hair responds to different products and styles. If something feels dry or itchy, try something else. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so experiment and find what works best for you.

Style Ideas For Your 4C Hair Type

Get 4C Hair Inspiration With These 15 Jaw-Dropping Styles

Twists: Braids come in all shapes and sizes, and 4C hair is perfect for rocking twists of all kinds. Two-strand twists are classic, easy to do, and create stunning definitions. Three-strand twists offer a different look with a bit more complexity. Want to do something bolder? Try chunky twists for a statement style.

Hair Updos: 4C hair’s dense volume makes it ideal for eye-catching updos. A sleek bun with smooth sides puts the spotlight on your hair’s natural texture. Feeling playful? Bantu knots or a braided crown can add some personality.

Locs with an edge: Locs are a timeless choice for 4C hair, offering endless styling possibilities. Keep them short and neat for a polished look, or let them grow long and free for a more relaxed vibe.

For more articles like this, check here.

BEAUTY

Trying These Would Make Your Synthetic Or Human Hair Wigs Luscious & Beautiful

Published

4 weeks ago

December 21, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

How to make synthetic & human hair wigs lush & beautiful | fab.ng

Wigs, whether synthetic or made from human hair, are versatile tools for styling, enhancing your look, or providing a confidence boost.

However, keeping them luscious and beautiful requires proper care and maintenance. Here are effective methods to maintain your wigs and ensure they stay gorgeous.

1. Understand the Material of Your Wig

Synthetic wigs and human hair wigs have different care needs. Synthetic wigs are more affordable and pre-styled, while human hair wigs offer a natural look and greater styling flexibility.

Knowing the material of your wig will guide you in choosing the right products and care methods to keep it luscious and beautiful.

2. Wash Your Wigs Properly

Proper washing is essential to maintain the beauty of both synthetic and human hair wigs:

Synthetic Wigs: Wash them every 8–10 wears using cool water and specialised wig shampoo. Avoid rubbing or twisting the fibres to prevent tangling and damage.
Human Hair Wigs: Wash them less frequently, about every 10–15 wears, with sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners. Always rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry gently.

Both types benefit from air drying on a wig stand, as this helps preserve their shape and style.

3. Detangle Before and After Use

Use a wide-tooth comb or wig-specific brush to gently detangle the strands. Start at the tips and work upward to the roots. For synthetic wigs, this prevents breakage, while for human hair wigs, it helps maintain natural smoothness.

4. Conditioning is Key

Synthetic Wigs: Use wig conditioners designed for synthetic fibres. Focus on the ends, as they are more prone to dryness.
Human Hair Wigs: Apply leave-in conditioners or serums to keep the strands soft and shiny.

Conditioning ensures your wigs remain luscious and beautiful over time.

5. Store Wigs Properly

Proper storage prevents tangling and helps maintain the style. Use a wig stand or a mannequin head. If you need to travel, pack your wig in a silk or satin bag to reduce friction and keep it looking fresh.

6. Use Heat Carefully

Synthetic wigs are generally heat-sensitive, so avoid styling them with heated tools unless they are heat-resistant. For human hair wigs, use heat tools sparingly and always apply a heat protectant to prevent damage.

7. Avoid Excess Shine on Synthetic Wigs

Some synthetic wigs may appear overly shiny. To reduce the artificial gloss, lightly dust them with baby powder or dry shampoo. This technique gives synthetic wigs a more natural and luscious appearance.

8. Refresh and Restyle Regularly

Synthetic Wigs: Use styling sprays made specifically for synthetic fibres to refresh the look.
Human Hair Wigs: You can curl, straighten, or colour them like natural hair, but ensure you use professional-grade products.

Frequent restyling keeps your wigs attractive and aligns them with current trends.

9. Rotate Between Wigs

Having multiple wigs allows each to rest and regain its form, extending its lifespan. Alternating between wigs also gives you variety and reduces wear and tear on a single piece.

10. Seek Professional Care

For extensive maintenance or restyling, consider taking your wig to a professional. Experts can deep-clean, restore, and even repair damages to both synthetic and human hair wigs, ensuring they stay luscious and beautiful for years.

By following these tips, you can ensure your synthetic and human hair wigs remain in excellent condition, radiating beauty and confidence every time you wear them.

Proper care not only extends their lifespan but also enhances your overall appearance, making every day a fabulous hair day.

For more articles on beauty, you can explore resources here.

BEAUTY

Nigerian Model, Samuel Nwajagu Becomes First African To Win Mister International Title

Published

1 month ago

December 16, 2024

Reporter

Samuel Nwajagu wins Mister International pageant | fab.ng

Nigerian model Samuel Nwajagu made history by becoming the first African to win the prestigious Mister International title.

This landmark achievement occurred during the 16th edition of the pageant, held in Bangkok, Thailand.

The event saw 47 contestants from around the globe, including debutant countries like Cameroon, England, Benin Republic, and Mali, competing for the coveted title.

Mister International, regarded as one of the largest male beauty pageants globally, is second only to Mister World in terms of national-level participation.

Since its establishment in 2006 by the late Alan Sim in Singapore, the competition has grown to attract participants from over 80 countries, with an annual average of 38 contestants.

This year’s competition incorporated several activities, from city tours to preliminary rounds showcasing physical fitness, cultural attire, and formal wear.

Contestants also faced topical questions, allowing them to display their intelligence, confidence, and charisma.

Samuel Nwajagu becomes first African to win Mister International title | fab.ng

Nwajagu’s remarkable poise and versatility set him apart, ultimately earning him the title. He triumphed over Nguyễn Mạnh Lân from Vietnam and Glenn Victor Sutanto from Indonesia, who were among the top finalists.

Kim Thitisan Goodburn, the 2023 Mister International winner, passed on the crown to Nwajagu, symbolising the continuity of excellence in the competition.

Notably, the 2024 pageant marked a historic shift by permitting fathers, married men, and divorced individuals to compete for the first time in its 16-year history.

Hailing from Anambra State, 23-year-old Samuel Nwajagu is celebrated for his dedication to fashion, fitness, and wellness.

His victory not only highlights his talent but also underscores Africa’s growing representation on the global stage of pageantry. Through determination and charisma, Nwajagu’s success is an inspiration for aspiring models across the continent.

Check out more updates here.

ARTS & CULTURE

Does Anklet Really Signify Promiscuity?

Published

1 month ago

December 7, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Does Anklet Meanings Include Promiscuity? | fab.ng

What is an anklet?

An anklet is a versatile piece of jewellery that women typically wear around their ankles. Crafted from materials like chains, beads, or a mix of both, anklet meanings vary across cultures and styles.

Many fashionable women choose anklets to make a bold style statement, embracing their elegance and charm.

In Nigeria, people often call this accessory a “leg chain” or “ankle chain,” reflecting its cultural relevance. In pop culture, it’s popularly known as an “ankle bracelet.”

Anklets here focus more on fashion than symbolism, though interpretations can differ. With various styles and intricate designs available, anklets offer countless aesthetic options, allowing women to showcase their personal flair.

Ultimately, anklet meanings can be deeply personal, influenced by tradition, culture, or simply individual taste.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Throughout history, anklets have held different meanings across various cultures. While some view them as mere adornments, others have associated them with deeper, sometimes controversial, connotations.

In some societies, ancient and modern, anklets symbolise promiscuity.

Early Usage in Ancient Civilisations

Egypt is often credited as the birthplace of anklets, but India played a significant role in their widespread acceptance. In India, anklets were part of traditional attire, known as pattilu, payal, or nupu.

These terms also include Paujinupur and padapadma. Early Indian literature, such as the first-century epic Silappatikaram, mentions anklets, highlighting their cultural importance.

Rajasthani women were known for their elaborate anklet designs, reflecting regional traditions.

Among the Odisha people, gold anklets were once reserved for warriors, while brides included them as part of their wedding regalia.

Married women often wore anklets to signify their marital status, and dancers used those with dangling bells to enhance their performances.

Similarly, in ancient Egypt, anklets indicated social status. Wealthy women wore gold anklets, while silver or leather versions were common among slaves and the poor.

These accessories, known as menefret or kholkai, reflected one’s place in the social hierarchy. Interestingly, some accounts suggest that anklets were linked to temple worshippers and even prostitutes, though these claims remain largely unverified.

Modern Evolution and Symbolism

Over time, the meaning of anklets has evolved significantly. In the 1970s, during America’s “sexual revolution,” anklets became symbols of female empowerment and liberation.

This era emphasised women’s freedom to express themselves, including their sexuality. Consequently, anklets began to carry connotations of promiscuity, especially within the “hotwife” culture.

The “Hotwife” Phenomenon

A “hotwife” refers to a married woman who engages in consensual extramarital relationships with her husband’s approval. Various anklet symbols reflect this dynamic:

Two male symbols and one female symbol: Indicate openness to relationships with men of any race.
Queen of spades: Represents a preference for Black men.
Heart symbol: Suggests a happy marriage that includes mutually beneficial intimate relationships outside the primary partnership.
The key to happiness: Denotes a marriage where the husband’s extramarital activities are contingent on his wife’s consent.

Anklets in Contemporary Nigerian Fashion

Today, many Nigerian women wear anklets purely for their aesthetic appeal, often unaware of the historical or cultural associations. For them, anklets are fashion accessories, not symbols of promiscuity or class distinction.

Despite lingering societal judgments, especially within conservative African contexts, it’s essential to recognize that fashion choices are personal.

Women should not face harsh criticism for wearing anklets, as these judgments stem from outdated or culturally irrelevant perspectives.

In conclusion…

Anklets are versatile fashion pieces that have transcended their historical roots. While some cultural connotations persist, modern women wear anklets to express their style and individuality.

It is crucial to separate fashion from judgement and allow women the freedom to make their own choices about their bodies and accessories.

Let’s appreciate anklets for what they are today: beautiful, empowering symbols of self-expression.