37 Type 4C Hairstyles 2024: Curls, Braids, Cornrows, Locs, Simple Updos for Short and Medium Hair

Type 4C hair is known for its tightly coiled texture. As we move into 2024, embracing and celebrating natural hair has become more than a trend—it’s a movement. Whether you’re looking for short and easy styles or intricate braids, there’s a wealth of options available to make your natural hair shine. This article will explore 37 standout hairstyle ideas that are perfect for Type 4C hair, each offering its own unique flair and adaptability for various occasions.

The Modern Afro

The Modern Afro is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. This hairstyle is all about embracing your natural curls in their fullest form. Perfect for any event, from casual outings to formal occasions, the Afro can be tailored to suit your face shape and eye color. Oval and round faces will find this style especially flattering, as it highlights the cheekbones and eyes. Those with darker eye colors will see their features pop against the backdrop of a voluminous Afro.

Creating this look is all about moisture and definition. Start with a hydrating leave-in conditioner and follow up with a curl-defining cream to enhance your natural curls. To maintain the style, consider using a satin bonnet at night to prevent frizz and breakage. Regular trims will keep the shape of your Afro looking fresh, while a curl refresher spray can help revive the style between washes.

Cornrowed Updo

For a sophisticated yet simple look, the Cornrowed Updo is an excellent choice. This style features intricately woven cornrows that lead up to a chic bun or ponytail, making it ideal for both professional settings and glamorous evenings. The Updo works wonderfully with heart-shaped or square faces, as it draws attention to the upper half of the face. This look can be paired with bold eye makeup to make your eyes truly stand out.

To achieve this style, you’ll need a rat-tail comb for precise parting and a good edge control gel to keep flyaways in check. After cornrowing your hair, gather it into a bun or ponytail, securing it with a hair tie. For maintenance, keep your scalp moisturized with a light oil and wrap your hair at night to preserve the style. If you’re looking for extra hold, a spritz of hairspray will keep everything in place.

Short Box Braids2

Short braids are a fantastic option for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look. Short box braids offer versatility—they can be worn down, styled into an Updo, or even adorned with beads and cuffs for a personal touch. This style is particularly flattering on diamond and oval face shapes, and it works well with all eye colors. It’s a go-to hairstyle for summer festivals or laid-back weekends.

To install short box braids, you’ll need sectioning clips, a rat-tail comb, and your choice of braiding hair. Begin by parting your hair into small sections, then braid each section from the root to the ends, adding extensions as needed. Maintenance is easy—just apply a light oil to your scalp regularly and wrap your hair with a satin scarf at night. A braid spray can also be used to keep your hair hydrated and looking fresh.

Tapered Cut with Curls

If you’re a fan of short hair, the Tapered Cut with Curls is an edgy yet chic option. This style features shorter sides and back with longer, defined curls on top. It’s a simple yet bold look that suits angular face shapes, such as square or rectangular, and enhances light or dark eye colors alike. Whether you’re heading to a formal event or a casual meet-up, this style makes a statement.

To achieve this look, ask your stylist for a tapered cut that leaves enough length on top to define your curls. Use a curl-enhancing mousse or gel to style the top section, and consider a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair moisturized. For daily maintenance, a curl refresher spray will help keep your curls bouncy and defined.

Medium-Length Twists

For those with medium hair length, twists offer a protective and stylish solution. Medium-length twists are versatile and can be worn loose, pulled back, or styled into an Updo. This style is especially flattering on heart and oval-shaped faces, as it frames the face beautifully. Whether you’re attending a work event or a casual brunch, this look can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion.

To create medium-length twists, start by parting your hair into sections and applying a twisting cream or gel. Twist each section from root to tip, making sure to keep the tension even for a neat finish. To maintain the style, spritz your twists with a moisture mist daily and sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to prevent frizz. A weekly oil treatment will keep your scalp healthy and your twists shiny.

Bantu Knots

Bantu Knots are a playful and unique hairstyle that adds a touch of fun to any look. This style involves sectioning the hair and twisting it into small, coiled buns. It’s perfect for oval and round face shapes and can be worn as is or unraveled for a curly, voluminous look. This hairstyle is ideal for festivals, parties, or a creative work environment.

To achieve Bantu Knots, part your hair into sections, apply a styling cream or gel, and twist each section into a small knot, securing it with a bobby pin or small elastic. For maintenance, sleep with a satin bonnet to keep the knots in place, and refresh them with a light mist of water or leave-in conditioner. If you decide to unravel the knots, use an oil to minimize frizz and maximize shine.

Fulani Braids

Fulani Braids are a traditional style that has made a modern comeback. Characterized by thin-to-medium braids often adorned with beads or cuffs, this hairstyle is both intricate and regal. It suits heart and oval face shapes well and can be a striking look for special events or cultural celebrations. The addition of accessories allows for personalization, making this style uniquely yours.

To create Fulani Braids, you’ll need a rat-tail comb for parting, braiding hair extensions, and any beads or cuffs you wish to add. Start by parting your hair into thin sections and braiding each one, incorporating the extensions as you go. Secure the beads at the ends or throughout the braids for added flair. Maintain the style by applying a light oil to your scalp and covering your hair at night to prevent frizz and breakage.

Short Finger Coils

For those who love defined curls, Short Finger Coils are a great choice. This hairstyle involves creating small, coiled curls all over the hair for a defined, bouncy look. It’s perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces and works well for both casual and formal occasions. The simple elegance of this style makes it a go-to for anyone looking to highlight their natural curls.

To create Short Finger Coils, start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Apply a curl-defining cream or gel, then take small sections of hair and twist them around your finger to create the coils. Let the curls air dry or use a diffuser for quicker results. To maintain the coils, spritz them with a curl refresher spray daily and sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf to keep them intact.

Faux Locs Bob

If you’re looking for a protective style with a bit of an edge, the Faux Locs Bob is a perfect choice. This hairstyle combines the protective benefits of locs with the trendy bob length, making it ideal for short hair lovers. It suits square and round face shapes and can be worn to almost any event, from casual gatherings to more formal affairs. The locs add a touch of uniqueness that makes this hairstyle stand out.

To achieve the Faux Locs Bob, you’ll need locs extensions and a crochet hook. The locs are attached using a crochet method, and the ends are trimmed to create the bob length. Maintenance is easy—just apply a light oil to your scalp to keep it moisturized and wrap your hair at night to preserve the style. A locs spray can also be used to keep the locs looking fresh and shiny.

Curly Frohawk

For a bold and edgy look, the Curly Frohawk is a fantastic option. This hairstyle features tightly coiled curls styled into a mohawk, with the sides either slicked back or braided. It’s a striking style that works well for heart and oval face shapes and is perfect for a night out or a creative work environment. The Curly Frohawk is all about embracing your natural texture while adding a modern twist.

To create this style, start by applying a curl-enhancing cream to your hair. Then, either slick back the sides with a strong-hold gel or braid them for added texture. The curls on top should be defined using a curling sponge or your fingers. Maintain the style by refreshing your curls daily with a curl refresher spray and keeping the sides smooth with regular applications of gel.

Twist-Out Fro

The Twist-Out Fro is a fantastic way to achieve defined curls while maintaining volume and texture. This style involves twisting the hair while damp and then unraveling the twists once dry to reveal bouncy, defined curls. It’s perfect for any face shape, but it particularly suits round and oval faces by adding height and dimension. This hairstyle is ideal for a casual day out or a special occasion where you want to showcase your natural curls.

To create this look, start by applying a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream to your damp hair. Section your hair into small parts, twist each section, and allow the twists to dry completely. Once dry, carefully unravel the twists and fluff the roots for added volume. Maintain this style by using a curl refresher spray daily and sleeping with a satin scarf to reduce frizz.

Half-Up, Half-Down with Braids

The Half-Up, Half-Down with Braids style is both chic and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. The top half of the hair is braided into intricate cornrows, while the bottom half is left loose and natural. This style works well with heart and oval face shapes and can be dressed up with accessories like beads or cuffs for a more personalized look.

To achieve this style, part your hair horizontally, then braid the top section into small cornrows. Leave the bottom section of your hair loose, enhancing the curls with a defining cream or gel. Maintenance is straightforward—just apply a light oil to your scalp to keep it moisturized, and wrap your hair at night to preserve the braids and curls.

Flat Twist Crown

The Flat Twist Crown is a regal and elegant hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. This style involves twisting the hair flat against the scalp, creating a crown-like effect around the head. It’s perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces and is ideal for weddings, formal events, or any occasion where you want to make a statement.

To create this style, part your hair in a circular pattern and begin twisting it flat against your scalp, securing each twist with a bobby pin. Continue twisting until you’ve created a full crown around your head. To maintain the style, apply a light oil to keep your scalp moisturized, and wrap your hair with a satin scarf at night to prevent frizz.

Faux Hawk with Braided Sides

For an edgy and bold look, the Faux Hawk with Braided Sides is an excellent choice. This hairstyle features cornrows on the sides, leaving the middle section of the hair free to create a natural mohawk effect.

It’s a striking style that flatters square and oval face shapes, making it perfect for a night out or any event where you want to stand out.

To create this style, start by parting your hair into three sections—two small sections on the sides and a larger section in the middle. Braid the side sections into tight cornrows, then fluff the curls in the middle section to create the mohawk effect. Maintain the style by using a curl refresher spray on the middle section and applying oil to your scalp to keep it hydrated.

Kinky Curly Bob

The Kinky Curly Bob is a stylish option for those who love short hair but want to keep some length and volume. This hairstyle features tightly coiled curls cut into a bob shape, creating a look that’s both playful and sophisticated. It suits all face shapes, particularly round and heart-shaped, and is perfect for any occasion, from work to social events.

To achieve this style, ask your stylist for a bob cut that maintains the natural shape of your curls. Use a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to define the curls, and consider a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair moisturized. For maintenance, spritz your curls with a moisture mist daily and sleep with a satin bonnet to preserve the shape of your bob.

Short TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)

The Short TWA is a bold and minimalist choice for those who love short hair. This hairstyle embraces the natural texture of Type 4C hair in a low-maintenance, easy-to-manage Afro. It suits all face shapes and is particularly striking on those with strong, defined facial features. The Short TWA is perfect for daily wear, offering a fresh and modern look.

To maintain a Short TWA, regular trims are essential to keep the shape even and neat. Use a moisturizing cream or butter to keep your curls soft and hydrated, and consider a curl-enhancing product to define your curls. A satin bonnet or scarf will help maintain the style overnight and prevent breakage.

Side Parted Puff

The Side Parted Puff is a simple yet chic hairstyle that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions. This style involves creating a deep side part and gathering the hair into a puff, leaving the curls at the crown to add volume and texture. It suits all face shapes and can be dressed up with hair accessories for added flair.

To achieve this style, part your hair deeply to one side and gather the rest into a puff at the crown of your head. Secure the puff with a hair tie, and use a curl-defining cream or gel to enhance the curls. Maintain the style by refreshing your curls daily with a moisture mist and using edge control to keep the part neat.

Goddess Braids

Goddess Braids are a stunning and intricate hairstyle that offers both protection and style. These large, thick braids are typically styled in a crown or updo, making them perfect for formal events or cultural celebrations. This style suits all face shapes and can be customized with accessories like beads or cuffs for a personalized touch.

To achieve Goddess Braids, part your hair into large sections and braid each one, incorporating extensions if needed. The braids can be styled into an updo or left loose, depending on your preference. Maintain the style by applying a light oil to your scalp and wrapping your hair at night to prevent frizz. A braid spray can also be used to keep the braids looking fresh and shiny.

Medium-Length Afro Puffs

Medium-Length Afro Puffs offer a playful and versatile look that’s perfect for any occasion. This hairstyle involves dividing the hair into two sections and creating puffs on either side of the head. It suits oval and round face shapes and adds a fun, youthful vibe to your overall appearance.

To create this style, part your hair down the middle and gather each section into a puff, securing it with a hair tie. Use a curl-enhancing cream to define the curls in each puff, and consider adding hair accessories like ribbons or beads for extra flair. Maintenance is easy—just spritz the puffs with a moisture mist daily and wrap your hair with a satin scarf at night to keep the puffs intact.

Fro with Headband

The Fro with Headband is a stylish way to add a pop of color or texture to your Afro. This hairstyle features a voluminous Afro accented by a headband, making it perfect for casual outings, work, or even a night out. It suits all face shapes and is an easy way to change up your look without much effort.

To achieve this style, simply fluff out your Afro to your desired volume and place a headband around the crown of your head. You can choose a headband with bold colors or patterns to make a statement or opt for a more subtle look with a neutral band. Maintain the style by keeping your Afro moisturized with a leave-in conditioner and wrapping your hair with a satin bonnet at night to prevent frizz.

Mini Twists

Mini Twists are a versatile and low-maintenance protective style that can be worn in various ways. These tiny twists can be styled up, down, or even into a medium updo for a more polished look. They’re perfect for all face shapes, particularly oval and heart-shaped, as they frame the face beautifully. Whether you’re heading to work or a weekend event, Mini Twists are a practical yet stylish choice.

To achieve this style, start by parting your hair into small sections and twisting each one from root to tip. A good twisting cream or gel will help hold the twists in place and keep them defined. Maintenance is simple—just keep your scalp moisturized with a light oil and cover your hair at night with a satin bonnet to prevent frizz and preserve the twists.

Braided Bun

The Braided Bun is an elegant and sophisticated style that’s perfect for formal events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to look your best. This hairstyle involves braiding the hair and then gathering it into a bun at the crown or nape of the neck. It works well with oval and square face shapes and can be customized with accessories for a personalized touch.

To achieve this style, start by braiding your hair into medium-sized braids, then gather the braids into a bun and secure them with bobby pins or a hair tie. You can leave some braids loose around the face for a softer look or tuck them all into the bun for a more polished finish. Maintenance is straightforward—just apply a light oil to your scalp to keep it moisturized and wrap your hair with a satin scarf at night to preserve the bun.

Coiled High Puff

The Coiled High Puff is a bold and striking hairstyle that showcases your natural curls in a voluminous, high puff. This style is perfect for all face shapes, especially round and oval, as it adds height and draws attention to the eyes. It’s a great choice for both casual and formal occasions, offering a modern twist on the classic puff.

To achieve this look, gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie, leaving the curls to form a voluminous puff. Use a curl-enhancing cream or gel to define the curls and add extra bounce. Maintain the style by refreshing your curls daily with a curl refresher spray and using edge control to keep the hairline smooth.

Faux Locs with Accessories

Faux Locs with accessories offer a stylish and protective look that can be customized to reflect your personality. This hairstyle features locs made from extensions, which are then adorned with beads, cuffs, or wraps for a unique finish. It’s a versatile style that suits all face shapes and is perfect for everything from festivals to more formal events.

To create Faux Locs, you’ll need locs extensions and a crochet hook to attach them. Once the locs are in place, you can add accessories like beads or wraps to make the style your own. Maintenance is easy—just apply a light oil to your scalp to keep it hydrated, and wrap your hair with a satin scarf at night to preserve the locs and accessories.

Type 4C hair offers endless possibilities for styling, from short and simple looks to intricate and protective styles. Each of the ten hairstyles highlighted here celebrates the beauty and versatility of natural hair, providing options for every occasion and personal preference. Whether you’re trying something new or looking to refine your go-to style, these ideas are sure to inspire. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s discuss which styles you’re excited to try in 2024!