5 Hair Care Myths That Are Holding Back Your Length Retention (And What to Do Instead)

If you have type 4 natural hair, chances are you’ve heard a lot of advice — some helpful, some outdated, and some completely wrong. Many women aren’t struggling to grow hair; they’re struggling to retain length because of myths that lead to dryness, breakage, and frustration.

Let’s clear things up.

Myth #1: “Type 4 Hair Doesn’t Grow”

Truth: Your hair is always growing — it just breaks faster when it isn’t properly cared for.

Type 4 hair has tight coils and bends, which make it more fragile and prone to dryness. When moisture isn’t balanced and handling is too rough, breakage hides your growth.

Best practice:
Focus on gentle handling, consistent moisture, and low-manipulation styles. Growth happens at the scalp; length retention happens in your routine.

Myth #2: “You Need Heavy Products to Moisturize”

Truth: Heavy butters and oils can actually sit on top of low-porosity hair and block moisture from entering.

Low-porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles, which means it needs lightweight products and the right application method.

Best practice:
Use the LCO method (Liquid, Cream, Oil) with water-based products first. Lightweight oils help seal moisture in — not replace it.

Myth #3: “Oils Moisturize Hair”

Truth: Oils do not moisturize — they seal moisture.

Applying oil to dry hair often leads to buildup and dryness over time, especially for low-porosity hair.

Best practice:
Always apply oil after water or a leave-in conditioner. Think of oil as the lock, not the key.

Myth #4: “Wash Day Dries Out Natural Hair”

Truth: Skipping wash day causes more damage than washing too often.

Product buildup, clogged follicles, and dirty scalps can slow growth and lead to shedding.

Best practice:
Cleanse regularly with a gentle shampoo, follow with a moisturizing conditioner, and deep condition as needed. Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.

Myth #5: “Protective Styles Do the Work for You”

Truth: A protective style is only protective if your hair is properly cared for underneath.

Braids, wigs, and twists won’t prevent breakage if your hair is dry, neglected, or overly manipulated.

Best practice:
Moisturize your hair before installing styles, keep your scalp clean, and lightly hydrate your hair throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Healthy hair growth isn’t about doing everything — it’s about doing the right things consistently. Once you understand your hair’s porosity and needs, caring for type 4 hair becomes simpler and more predictable.

If your goal is longer, stronger hair, shift your focus from trends to routine, balance, and education.

Your hair is not difficult — it just needs the right approach.