Styling Inspo: 4 Styles For Each Week To Enjoy Your Type 4 Hair

October is the month to enjoy your hair. Here's a loose plan: one style per week, four weeks, no repeats.

Week 1: Wash and go

Start the month with something that shows you exactly what your hair is doing.

A wash and go right after a full wash day (deep condition included) shows you your real curl pattern, your real shrinkage, and how your hair is responding to the season. Apply your leave-in to dripping wet hair section by section, then add a light gel or curl cream to help the pattern hold as it dries. Let it dry fully without touching it. The result tells you where your hair is coming into October and what it might need going forward.

Week 2: Twist-out

A good twist-out is so beautiful and easy to do. Twist-outs on type 4 hair work best when the hair is stretched slightly before twisting. Set your twists on hair that's about 70% dry rather than fully wet, and twist larger rather than smaller. Bigger twists on type 4 hair give more volume and a looser definition, which usually looks better than small, tight twists trying to mimic a curl pattern that isn't there. Leave them in for at least 24 hours. Unravel carefully with oiled hands and fluff gently. Don't use a pick unless you want maximum volume.

Week 3: High puff or top knot

The puff is underrated. It's not a backup plan. A well-done puff on healthy type 4 hair looks intentional, takes about five minutes, and gives your ends a break from daily styling. Use a satin-covered elastic or a fabric band rather than a regular elastic to avoid breakage at the hairline. If the edges need attention, a light edge control and a soft brush are enough. Resist heavy gel that will flake by mid-afternoon.

Week 4: Flat twist updo

End the month with something that stays. Flat twists pinned into a style you can wear for most of the week, refreshed with a little water and oil as needed. This style gives your hair a rest before November, holds well for three to four days without major intervention, and looks polished enough for most occasions. Section the hair, flat twist each section close to the scalp, and pin or tuck the ends in. The simpler the shape, the longer it holds.

Love MPL,

Your Hair Doctor