How to determine your curl type:
While the current curl typing system isn't perfect, it's a good starting point for styling advice.
We understand you. It can be difficult to decode your loop type. One can find multiple textures on a single head of curly hair . They should all look the same when styled.
It's easy to get frustrated when your crown locks are looser than the side locks and even less different from your back hair. You might consider cutting everything off. You can do it !
Don't worry if this isn't your thing. Although it can be difficult to understand and accept your texture (because of curls), it doesn't have to be complicated.
As it stands, most people refer to a specific hair type chart for curls that was created by Andre Walker. This is not a lie.
There has been much debate about whether the type system is too narrow or divisive. Thanks to the curly community, it has been changed a bit over the years. All power to the people.
Although controversial, many people find this set of guidelines extremely helpful. It helps you identify your curl pattern(s) so you can start shopping for hair care products. You should be able to walk into a store knowing how to style your hair and what to buy.
There are many things to consider. Two industry professionals are knowledgeable in texturing to help us understand the nuances of typing.
There is an easy way for you to tell if your hair is wavy or curly . You can learn how to curl your hair by following our simple tip sheet (complete with hair care product suggestions).
Where to start ?
The shape of your hair follicle from your scalp determines your curl type. The curlier your hair, the flatter and more oval-shaped your follicle is.
The more circular your section, the steeper they will be. The shape of the hair strands determines the shape of the curl. They can bend, curve or wrap around themselves in spirals.
Most people with textured hair have multiple types of patterns. "So you can have a combination of frizzy, curly, curly, wavy, and curly hair." It's easier to identify your shape and/or curl pattern when your hair is still damp.
The basic breakdown is as follows:
- Type 1s have straight lines.
- Type 2 have curly edges.
- Type 3 have curly edges.
Type 4s have "coily" ends, and Type 4s have curly sides. Easy, right?
The width of your wave, loop and/or coil determines which subclass you will be placed in.
Type A has a larger pattern, type B is medium in size, and type Cs is the smallest.
The benefit of knowing your hair type is that it helps you understand how to maintain your texture, which gives you more flexibility.
Type 2 (wavy).
Type 2 waves can be flexible, fine to coarse, and have a distinct S-pattern that sits closer to the head.
Type 2A.
Hair type 2A is characterized by a very fine texture. It is easy to smooth. This texture is best avoided, as heavy styling products can leave hair limp and lifeless. This hair texture is to be avoided.
2A waves often lack volume at the roots. It is suggested to use a water-based mousse to give more volume and texture to the hair.
Type 2B.
Type 2B hair is shorter at the crown and features defined S-shaped waves that start from the middle of the length. You will have to work harder to straighten your locks than with a 2A.
The wicks have a larger diameter than those of a 2A. For hair that isn't stiff or crunchy, you can use a texturizing spray.
Type 2C.
2C waves are thicker and more susceptible to frizz. S curves start at the root and are well defined. Use a non-foaming, soap-free "cowash" between shampoos to keep strands hydrated. This product is designed to adapt to all curl textures.
It is recommended to layer a leave-in conditioner under a mousse to maintain the natural wave structure of your hair and moisturize it.
Type 3 (curly).
Type 3 curly hair can be loose and flowy or tight and bouncy, but with a tendency to frizz.
Type 3A.
Type 3A locks are shiny and feature large, loose curls that are about the size of a piece of sidewalk chalk in diameter.
To bring out the texture of the curls, rub the curl cream into your dry hair. You don't want your hair to get frizzy if you touch it with your hands or brush.
For shiny springs, spray your hair with a curl freshener whenever it needs it.
Type 3B.
Type 3Bs are elastic loops that look like "Sharpie" markers. This texture can get dry, so you should look for styling gels that contain humectants to draw moisture to your strands.
We suggest applying styling gel when your hair is wet to achieve definition and minimize frizz.
3C loops, which are corkscrews with a tight circumference, can be used as a straw or a pencil. The very dense locks give way to a natural volume.
This hair type is known for frizziness. If you don't like this look, you can use a creamy sulfate-free shampoo. It won't dry out your hair any further.
We recommend layering mousse over styling cream when hair is wet. This will allow the curls to clump together and dry faster.
Type 4 (frizzy hair).
Kinky hair is also known as afro-textured hair or kinky hair. It can be dry and spongy and can be fine and soft or coarse and moist.
Hair is prone to shrinkage and forms tight little curls that zigzag from the scalp.
Type 4A.
Type 4A hair has dense, springy “S” shaped curls similar in circumference to a hook needle. You should style your washed, undone hair more often if you like the curly texture with soft, flexible locks.
For extra hydration in daily wash-and-go styling, a curling cream with moisturizer is essential.
Type 4B.
Type 4B strands have dense strands and can bend at sharp angles, like the letter Z. Francois says 4B strands can be bent in many different directions.
Curl Cream is my go-to product for styling all types of kinks, curls and waves. It is an excellent base before styling with a non-aerosol spray. Hair looks instantly hydrated and nourished.
Type 4C.
Although 4C textures resemble 4B textures in some ways, 4C textures are more fragile than 4B textures and often have a very tight zigzag pattern that can sometimes be difficult to see.
This type of hair is prone to the greatest shrinkage, around 75% or more, compared to other textures.
To maximize the length of those locks, you need to use plenty of leave-in moisturizers, like Curl Cream . Castor oil can also be used as a sealer and moisturizer for that extremely dry texture.