S
coily · type 4b
4b - Z-Pattern Coils
Sharper Z-shaped coils, visibly tighter than 4a's S-pattern. Maximum moisture needs, high shrinkage, dense feel.
Read the full 4b guideWhat 4b usually looks like
- Visible Z or sharp zig-zag pattern
- Shrinks 60-75% from wet to dry
- Dense, high-volume, moisture-hungry
- Needs the full moisture stack - LOC or LCO with heat deep conditioning
Daily routine
- Low-sulfate shampoo weekly; co-wash between.
- Deep condition with heat every wash, 20-30 minutes.
- Wet-detangle in sections with conditioner.
- LOC: leave-in → oil → cream. Layer generously.
- Protective styles, satin bonnet at night.
What to look for
4b needs the full moisture stack. Single-product styling rarely gives enough.
Water-based leave-in
Water/aloe first, humectants, no drying alcohols
Thin leave-ins built for looser types
Sealing oil + rich cream
Shea, castor, jojoba; rich cream with butters
Heavy mineral oil as a sole sealant
Common 4b mistakes
- 01Skipping heat deep conditioning - 4b retention depends on it.
- 02Using 3c products - not enough moisture.
- 03Dry detangling - guaranteed breakage at the Z-bends.
Now do it for real - your 4b routine, in the app
Scrunchie takes your 4b profile and turns it into a daily routine that adapts from photo analysis and check-ins. No more generic curly-hair advice.
Snap a photo
The app reads your hair from a daily picture: definition, frizz halo, dryness, volume.
Get a routine
Personalized to your curl type, porosity, and what the photo just showed. Wash days and refresh days.
Daily check-ins
Log how each step went. The routine adapts every day so it actually keeps up with your hair.
Get Scrunchie