Keeping your child’s hair soft, strong, and healthy can feel like a full-time job when caring for textured or curly hair. African American kids hair is often naturally dry hair due to the shape of their curls, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel from the scalp to the ends. But with the right approach, moisturizing your child’s hair can become a joyful part of their self-care routine.

Here’s how to moisturize 4c kids’ hair the right way:

1. Start with a Moisturizing Wash Day

Wash day sets the foundation for hydration. Use a sulfate-free, tear-free shampoo like Boogie and Bean Coco Curls Shampoo that won’t strip your child’s natural oils. Follow up with a rich, kid-safe conditioner that contains natural ingredients that nourish and moisturize. Boogie and Bean Conditioners

Pro Tip: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle while the conditioner is in—this reduces breakage and helps evenly distribute moisture.

2. Apply a Leave-In Conditioner

After rinsing out the regular conditioner, follow up with a Boogie and Bean leave-in conditioner while the hair is still damp. This helps lock in moisture and makes styling much easier. Look for products specifically made for kids with curly or coily hair.

3. Use the LOC or LCO Method

These are two popular methods for sealing in moisture:

• LOC: Leave-In Conditioner → Oil → Cream
• LCO: Leave-In Conditioner → Cream → Oil

Try both to see what works best for your child’s hair type. Oils like jojoba, avocado, grapeseed, or castor oil are lightweight and nourishing for little scalps.

4. Moisturize Mid-Week with a Water-Based Spray

Curls love water! Between wash days, refresh the hair with a moisturizing spray like Boogie and Bean Coco Curls Conditioner or a DIY mix of water + leave-in conditioner. This keeps the hair from becoming dry or brittle.

You can also lightly mist the hair before styling in the morning.

5. Protect Hair at Night

Use a satin or silk bonnet, scarf, or pillowcase while your child sleeps. Cotton absorbs moisture and can dry out the hair. A protective covering keeps moisture locked in and reduces frizz and breakage overnight.

6. Keep Styles Protective (and Gentle)

Moisture retention isn’t just about products—it’s also about how the hair is styled. Choose protective styles like:

• Twists
• Braids (not too tight!)
• Puffs
• Cornrows
• Locs

Make sure to re-moisturize the hair regularly while in these styles. A little leave-in and oil on the scalp goes a long way.

7. Consistency Is Key

You don’t need 10 products to have healthy, hydrated hair. What matters most is routine and consistency. Keep a schedule that includes wash days, mid-week moisturizing, and nighttime protection—and you’ll start to see your child’s curls flourish.