When the heat hits, the last thing your 4c hair needs is to be weighed down by heavy braids or a sew-in that traps sweat against your scalp. Hot weather and bulky protective styles are not always the best combination, and your hair will thank you for choosing something lighter this season.

The good news is that some of the most beautiful styles for 4c hair are also the most breathable. Cornrows keep your hair flat and off your neck without the weight, Bantu knots double as a stylish look and a heatless curl set for when you take them down, and a sleek ponytail with detachable braided extensions gives you length and drama without the full commitment or the tension. And then there is the simplest, most liberating option of all, wearing your afro out in all its full, glorious volume, because sometimes the best thing you can do for your hair in summer is just let it breathe.

Whether you are a wash-and-go girl or someone who likes a little more structure, these styles are low-manipulation, scalp-friendly, and built for the heat. Here is what to try with your 4c hair this season

 

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