For natural hair girls with sensitive scalps, this wash-day routine for 4c hair features products that keep my hair healthy and moisturised.
My wash-day routine is never just about shampoo and conditioner; it’s a full-on process, particularly because I have 4C hair and a sensitive scalp. I’ve learnt to approach this process as intentional self-care, using products that not only keep my hair clean but also respect and nourish it.
I can barely remember a time when I didn’t have natural 4c hair. Having been natural from birth till I was 15 years old, every time I tried to relax my hair, I ended up with a bleeding scalp. I eventually got tired of the allergies without a concrete explanation. I have since maintained my natural hair for over a decade. With a scalp that demands extra care, I’ve tried different wash-day routines, and finally landed on one that keeps my hair soft and my scalp happy.
4C hair has the most tightly coiled texture and is prone to shrinkage, making it a challenge to find a routine and products that work. Regardless, I love that my hair bursts with volume and personality every time I get to wear it out. As an actor, I rarely wear my hair out, but I love my wash-day routine. My hair is soft, and although it shrinks, I wish I had more time to style it. Since I can’t, I’m intentional about the products I use before putting my hair in a protective style. I often plait my own cornrows (yes, I’m proud of that), though I visit the salon when I want some pampering. I will never pay eight thousand for cornrows, though — count me out of that!
My wash days are sacred. I lock myself in the bathroom for about 30 minutes while I enjoy the time I spend taking care of my hair. Going back to my roots, years after experimenting with relaxers, taught me to prioritise health over style. My scalp used to be very dry, but I have now achieved the combination scalp type with the help of some of these products.
Read also: Cornrow alternatives — explore these low-maintenance hairstyles
Wash-day routine and products for dry, sensitive scalp
L’Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-oiliness 2-in-1 Deep Purifier Clay
After detangling and sectioning my hair into four parts, I start my wash-day routine with the Anti-oiliness 2-in-1 Deep Purifier Clay from L’Oréal’s Scalp Advanced range. This product is formulated for oily scalp, but also effective for my dry (now combination) scalp because even though the sweat isn’t visible, it’s still present. It’s a versatile clay that doubles as a shampoo. However, I apply it as a mask and leave it in my hair for 10 minutes. It has a subtle mint scent, which soothes my senses as well.
The product gently draws out impurities and balances sebum, leaving my scalp feeling fresh, and my hair lightweight and volumised after washing it off. It works like a detox while still being gentle on sensitive skin.
L’Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo-Clarifier Shampoo
The next step in my wash-day routine is the Anti-Dandruff Shampoo from the same line. I like this because it targets flakes without harshness, which is important for my irritation-prone scalp. It also lathers well, so you don’t need too much. Following the mask with an anti-dandruff shampoo ensures both grime and flakiness are addressed.
The first time I used this product, I made the mistake of using more than I needed. It felt like I was being pranked because I had to keep rinsing it out for quite a while. I ended up wasting a lot of water and learning my lesson.
My hair used to be highly prone to dandruff due to dry scalp, and this product effectively removes both dry and oily dandruff. It washes my hair clean and stops the itchiness I have on my scalp. This shampoo restores the fullness of my hair after the mask, and I like the way it feels like I’m on a journey to healthy hair.
Available on Beauty Hut Africa – Shop here
Medicube Soymint Scaling Shampoo
Some people double cleanse only their facial skin, but I also double cleanse my scalp. To soothe my scalp after the anti-dandruff shampoo, I follow with Medicube Soymint Scaling Shampoo. I love a product that’s effective and gives value for money. This shampoo comes in a generous package and lathers well too. It deeply cleanses, and the mint provides a cool tingle that calms and comforts my scalp without being overpowering.
This product contains several ingredients perfect for combating dandruff, which can also stem from dry scalp. The tea tree, niacinamide, peppermint, and holy basil properties are important for soothing sensitive scalp, especially after all that rubbing and kneading. I’ve found it helps balance my scalp, reducing both flakes and irritation.
Available on Buy Better – Shop here
Read also: Are you applying your hair mask all wrong? A hairdresser shares game-changing tips
Scalp Advanced Anti-Discomfort Intense Soother Treatment
My wash-day routine can be both intense and relaxing. This next step is crucial for further easing any discomfort and final detangling. The first time I used the Anti-Discomfort Intense Soother Treatment, I had to use a bit more than I initially anticipated. The texture is lighter than I expected, but my hair retains it well. Enriched with niacinamide, this gel-textured, lightweight treatment is perfect for sensitive scalps.
Immediately I apply this product, it calms and softens scalp irritation instantly without weighing down the roots. I don’t feel like I have product on my hair with this, and I’ve even skipped conditioner after using it. It detangles my hair well and leaves it feeling soft and fluffy like a cloud.
Available on Beauty Hut Africa – Shop here
VO5 Ocean Refresh Conditioner
Probably the oldest product I have used on my hair, the VO5 Ocean Refresh Conditioner has always delivered great results. It softens my hair while easing detangling. This product is quite affordable and accessible; that’s definitely part of the appeal for me. I like the familiar, fresh, long-lasting ocean scent. It is also lightweight and settles nicely into the scalp. I usually let it sit in my hair for about five minutes before combing and then rinsing it off.
This is usually the final step of my wash-day routine in the bathroom.
Sea Buckthorn Oil & TCB Naturals Leave-In Treatment
Post-wash, I gently towel-dry my hair and spritz my “miracle spray”, as I jokingly call it. It is a mix of ROA Seabuckthorn Oil, TCB Naturals Leave-In Treatment and water. I spray this directly onto my scalp and strands. It locks in moisture and gives my hair a soft feel. Although my hair shrinks, this mix keeps it soft long enough for me to put it in my preferred protective hairstyle. It also gives my hair a long-lasting, divine, warm-fruity-nutty scent.
Read also: Humidity tries, but I win – so here’s my humidity-proof haircare guide to help you win too
My 4c hair maintenance routine
I avoid heat styling on my natural hair unless it’s absolutely necessary. To prevent deep shrinkage, I braid my damp hair into four or six single sections and allow it to air dry. Once it’s dry, I either style it into a low bun if I have to head out or make cornrows if I want to wear a wig. Air-drying while braided prevents heat damage, protecting the softness of my hair.
To maintain hydration, I mist my hair with the oil-conditioner mix throughout the week. I also sleep with a silk pillowcase and hair bonnet to lock in the moisture. Moisture retention is everything.
These products work for my hair because they’re gentle yet effective. I follow a layered cleansing method that ensures all the ingredients have enough time to work. They also contain soothing active ingredients that make my wash-day routine feel like a ritual. This is self-care for me, and I always come out feeling relaxed and clear-headed.
My routine blends science-backed products and everyday practicality to keep my scalp calm and my 4C hair soft. If you’re a 4c girl with sensitive scalp like mine, you should try out this routine.
Read more: I loc’d my 4c hair — here’s everything I’ve learnt three months in
