The 4c's HandBook

The 4c's HandBook

...or 4c bible if you will.

4c hair needs more moisture that all other hair types.  
Solution:  Keep hair moist on a daily basis.  A thick creamy leave in, a moisturizing spray, conditioner, all of the above...take your pick.  Just remember to seal with an oil to keep your hair moisturized throughout the day.

4c hair is prone to tangling.
We may not have much curl definition but we do, indeed, have very tight spirals that seem to love each other and never want to let go!  Those who've spent hours detangling know exactly what I'm talking about.  Our very, very tight spirals tend to wrap around each other with each.  In fact, as the moisture dissipates from the hair (say, after a wash), the hair starts to intertwine and tangle again, making it very necessary to re-mist.
Solution:  When washing - plait in sections (4 or more depending on length) and apply shampoo and conditioner gently from root to tip.  No not tug.  Do not use intense rubbing motions.  Simply apply down the shaft of each braid (remain in a downward motion) and keep it moving.  Pay close attention to the scalp by using the tips of the fingers to massage the scalp only.  Do not massage each braid, else you will feel the wrath of the 4c tangle *shiver*
Solution 2:  After shampooing and conditioning, detangle hair one section at a time with a spray bottle close by.  As soon as the hair becomes dry, tangles are not far.  Keep hair moisturized and supple to prevent tangles.  Make sure to re-braid each section after detangling.
Solution 3:  Simply keep hair braided at all times (for those who are fans of protective styling).

4c hair is prone to breakage
Enough said.  Keep it moisturized and protected.

4c hair needs special tools
Hard to believe isn't it?  Well it's true!  Something that has changes my hair in a major way is using the right tools.  What tools are those, you may ask?  Why seamless combs, of course!  Seamless comb usage has resulted in way, way less hair loss when combing.  Also, many of us were taught to use combs that are guaranteed to get through the knots and the naps, kinks, and coils.  WRONG, WRONG, WRONG.  We suffer so much hair loss by doing that.  So much!  Throw away the combs of yesterday and jump on the seamless comb train.

4c hair needs a moisture -protein balance too!
Our hair is thought of as being very strong and resilient.  And it is!  But we still have to take care of it and make sure that it has the proper balance of moisture and protein.
Solution:  Develop a regimen that works for you.  I've experimented with switching daily, weekly, and monthly between the two, using protein shampoos and conditioners, protein sprays, moisturizing sprays, and the list goes on and on.  See what works well for your hair.  When you do find something that works, still with it!