When you hear 4A hair texture, what comes to mind? Beautiful top knots and finger coils? If you’re familiar with hair typing then you know 4A represents one part of Type 4 hair textures that help people learn their curl pattern. Understanding your curl pattern is essential to building your hair regimen, identifying which products are best for your hair, and maintaining your hair health.
Defining 4A hair textures
If you have 4A hair textures then your curls can have a spring S or O shape that is medium-sized and loosely packed. They often do not interlock and can curl or spiral away from the rest of your hair with lots of volume at the roots. Celebrities who sport 4A textures are fan favorites like Solange Knowles, Issa Rae, Kerry Washington, and Yara Shahidi. 4A hairstyles can range from free-flowing coils, updos, or protective styles like twists and braids because of how voluminous the texture is.
If you’re looking for inspiration this season and want to switch up your everyday hairstyle, we’ve got you covered with 15 options that you’ll love.
1. Frohawk
Image source: @curlsidoadore_
You can create this fun and funky style regardless of how long, short, or voluminous your coils and curls are. A Frohawk isn’t about the texture, but the attitude you bring with this edgy look, just grab your favorite gel, edge control, and hairpins and you’re all set.
2. Flexirod Curls
Image source: @njeberhart
Using Flexirods is great for 4A naturalistas looking to add a little bounce to their look without applying any heat. Heat-free damage is something we can all get behind and they create an effortless and voluminous style that can be easily manipulated into other styles.
3. Twists
Image source: @globetrottercurls
Achieving the perfect twist-out has never been easier with the right hair products and a bit of patience. The key to making this style your own is deciding ahead of time how you’ll part your hair and in which direction you’ll twist your hair.
4. Slicked Back Ponytail
Image source: @maisabel_
A slick ponytail is the perfect addition to dress up any outfit whether you’re going for an everyday casual look or a sex night out. Make sure to apply a thick gel that will keep your coils and kinks laid down and allow the pony to take center stage.
5. Twists With Beads
Image source: @razorempress
We love to see accessories added to braids, locs, or twists as they can easily elevate the look and can range in size, shape, and color.
6. Locs
Image source: @jadenikaylah
Creating locs is an easy 4A hairstyle that begins with coils and double-strand twists and then they slowly begin to lock up. Depending on the length and thickness you’re going for this can be a temporary or long-term hairstyle.
7. Claw Clip
Image source: @jay_anoka
There’s nothing like pulling your hair back and sometimes a ponytail isn’t enough so we need reinforcements. Using a claw clip is an easy way to add some life to your curls and coils, just make sure it’s thick and won’t snap easily.
8. Two Buns With Beads
Image source: @_cicimichele
There have been several variations of buns you can wear as a 4A hairstyle, but this fun look is accessorized with wire and beads. The mix of twists, buns, and accessories gives depth and dimension to this hairstyle.
9. Updo
Image source: @theesperanzamaria
Updos never go out of style and they can be an elegant way to showcase the beauty of your texture whether you want a pineapple or braided style.
10. Tapered Cut
Image source: @wanessarodriiguess
If you love an edgy TWA, then a tapered look could be your next hairstyle if you’re aiming to shorten up your curls and coils. You always want to consult with a barber before getting a tapered cut and explore the types of designs or patterns you want to accompany your hairstyle.
11. Half up/down
Image source: @slimreshae
How gorgeous are these curls? A good 4A hairstyle isn’t complete without the classic staples like a half up/down hairstyle that shows your texture.
12. Passion Twists
Image source: @damnthatschev
Passion twists are a fun, boho vibe that is fun, low maintenance, and can easily be worn over a long duration of time. Don’t forget the type of length, color, and style you want to use for your passion twists and be prepared to sleep with a bonnet or pineapple.
13. Braid Out
Image source: @candacee_renee
A braid out is a simple and easy way of letting your curls and coils shine after you’ve unraveled a braided style. They can help enhance your natural pattern and give definition to your curls and coils for a chic look.
14. Two-Strand Twists
Image source: @lynnettessilhouettes
Two-strand twists are an easy and healthy protective style that you can jazz up with barrettes or bands. They require zero heat, don’t create tension on the hair, and help you maintain moisture longer.
Looking for more hair inspiration? Check out our roundup of the creative and decadent styles from Afropunk 2023.
