Presenting: The 30 Prettiest Hairstyles for Your 4a Hair (2024)

If you're going for next-level definition with your 4a hairstyle, try recreating this stretched finger coil tutorial from YouTuber Chev B. All you'll need is a curl-defining gel (she uses Aunt Jackie's Curl Boss), a non-sticky shine mist, a blow dryer, and a little patience to nail this look at home. Trust: The payoff is worth it.

Looking for a classic hairstyle that's super easy to execute? Play up your hair's natural shine with a lightweight oil and twist your coils into a half-up bun at the top of your head. This one's the definition of cute and simple.

Sorry, but how effing pretty are these red highlights? If you aren't ready to dye your type 4 hair permanently, try a temporary hair-color wax instead (like Hair Paint Wax or Mysteek Naturals Color Pop). "Hair color wax is great for people who want to color their hair but are concerned about damage," Jasmine Pierce, hairstylist at Yeluchi in Los Angeles, has told Cosmo.

The key to recreating this hairstyle on 4a hair? Moisture, moisture, and more moisture. Peep this tutorial from YouTuber Modelesque Nic to watch how she puts together this cute style with a hydrating cleanser, conditioner, and leave-in. Like, how shiny and defined does the final result look?

Haircuts are always a fun way to get out of a styling rut. This cute cut for 4a hair features a longer length on top with closely shaved sides. The result? A look that's both low-maintenance and ridiculously pretty.

To recreate this sleek-AF hairstyle, smooth a dollop of styling gel or mousse through your 4a hair, stopping just before the base of your ponytail to maintain your natural volume and definition. Pro tip: Your favorite edge tool (and a non-flaky edge control!) will make this look 100 times easier.

Sometimes all you need is a cute accessory to take your 4a hairstyle to new heights. Before you reach for your favorite headband though, start by finger-coiling a dollop of gel through your wet hair to define and hold your curl pattern. "Gels are great for holding the curl for a longer period of time, especially in humidity," Santiago has said.

This hairstyle is a classic for a reason: It's super easy to execute (all you need to do is gather your coils at the top of your head, leaving out a few pieces in the front to shape your bangs) and it looks excellent year-round.

What's cuter than a pair of mini buns on either side of your part? Nothing, that's what. Coat your 4a hair in a hydrating cream or gel to really define your curl pattern and enhance your nice.

Down to put favorite scrunchie or hair tie on full display? Go for this bouncy high ponytail—it's perfect for styling your 4a hair in-between wash days. Bonus points if you leave out a few curls around your hairline for a faux-bangs look.

TBH, pigtails are never not relevant—especially when they're as cute and modern as these. Part your 4a hair right down the middle and secure your ponytails a few inches above your ears to recreate this look.

If you're down to play around with your hairstyle, you can't go wrong with this triple-bun look for 4a hair. Make sure you've got a rat-tail comb (for getting super precise parts) and a styling gel (for minimizing flyaways) before you get started.

Looking for an easy way to show off your wash-and-go style? Slip on a printed silk scarf (like the leopard one pictured here) and let your hydrated hair do all the talking. P.S. Sitting under a hooded dryer is a smart way to dry your evenly hair without any unwanted flyaways.

PSA: This style is great for type 4 hair that's on the shorter side. Load up on your favorite shine-enhancing gels or creams and finish off the look by laying your edges with a lightweight edge control. So pretty, right?

Never underestimate the power of a few strategically placed bobby pins. Part your 4a hair right down the middle, and slide a few pins on either side for a look that's equal parts quick and pretty.

When in doubt? Gather your type 4 hair at the top of your head to show off your volume and definition. Hot tip: This one's a great option for humid summer days when getting your hair off your neck is nonnegotiable.

Just because you want to wear your hair in a top knot doesn't mean you need to go the sleek route. After defining your coils with a heap of gel and locking it all in with a hair serum or oil, loosely tie up your hair without smoothing or stretching your curl pattern.

You know those days when you want something a bit more special than your favorite ponytail or top knot? Yeah, these finger waves for 4a hair are prepared to take you there. FYI: If you haven't nailed the perfect waves just yet, peep our finger-wave guide for the easiest tutorials.

I mean, how cool is this frohawk hairstyle for 4a hair? Try recreating this style on day-two hair that's already been moisturized and defined.

The perfect combination of sleek and curly, this low ponytail is excellent for type 4 hair. Smooth a dollop of your favorite hold gel through the front of your hair and play up the definition and bounce on your mid-lengths to ends with a curl-defining cream.