Just as with skin types, there are different hair types. Line up a group of random people and you’ll notice that everyone has a different hair type, texture and color. Their hair could be fine, thick, shiny, dry, long, short, curly, straight and anything in between. And understanding your hair type can help you take care of your hair properly. It all starts with with the shape of your hair follicle. The more oval or asymmetric the shape of your hair follicle, the curlier your hair will be.
The hair type system was developed by Oprah’s stylist, Andre Walker, in the 1990s and is the most accepted hair classifying system. The system is broken into 4 types or growth patterns; straight, wavy, curly and coily. Type 1 is straight hair, type 2 is wavy hair, type 3 is curly hair and type 4 is coily hair. Additionally, types 2 through 4 have multiple subtypes. We’ll examine each of these hair types so you can identify which one is yours.
Type 1: Straight Hair
This hair type has no natural curl or wave. Whether your hair is fine or coarse, your hair will fall straight from the root to the tip. As a result, it tends to be the easiest to take care of. On the other hand, straight hair doesn’t style very well. Styles and curls usually fall if hairspray is not used to hold it in place.
Normally, straight hair types tend to be oily since oil travels down straight hair much faster. With this hair type, you won’t need heavy butters, creams or serums. These could weigh your hair down and make it look greasy. In addition, over washing can cause your hair to produce more oils, making it look oiler.
Type 2: Wavy Hair
If your hair has a little bit of wavy or a kink, it’s considered as Type 2 hair. With this type, there are 3 different categories. The category depends on the wave patter of your hair. While every strand may not look the same, your hair is mostly wavy.
Type 2A
In its natural state, your hair has a very gentle wave. The top of your hair is pretty straight and the wave forms towards the bottom. For example, the roots around eye level would be the straight part. Then an undefined wave pattern forms below that. People with this hair type tend to straighten their hair since it’s not a very textured wave. Additionally, it’s easier to straighten with a blow dryer or flat iron. If you want to enhance the wave, use products that are lightweight such as a light moose or lightweight gel.
Type 2B
With type 2B, the wave of your hair has more of an S pattern. Generally, it takes more effort to straighten, but it’s easy to create that beachy look. All you’ll need is some salt spray or a mouse to hold your waves in place. This is the type of wave people try to re-create. So you’re lucky if you have it. Depending on your texture, enhance your wave with a little moisture. Play around with different products to see what works best for you.
Type 2C
Unlike type 2A and type 2B, with this hair type, the wave starts close to the crown of your head. Curls are easily manipulated to tighter curls. Since the hair is on the wavy side, you can experience dryness. Add moisture and use a diffuser device to eliminate frizziness. A diffuser is a device you add to your blow dryer. It has teeth to hold your hair to keep it from flying around.
Type 3: Curly Hair
While curly hair is beautiful, it can be tougher to manage. People with this hair type tend to struggle with frizz. With this in mind, many people straighten it so they don’t have to deal with frizz. The good news is, there are products available to help enhance your curls.
Type 3A
With this hair type, you’ll have S-shaped curls that form into very loose loops. To determine if you have this hair type, look at the circumference of the loops. If you can fit the large end of a taper candle into it, you have 3A hair. It’s best to define your natural curl since head and chemicals can damage your hair. Wash your hair once or twice a week to prevent drying. After washing, moisturize it to keep the hold in your hair. In addition, style it while it’s wet since brushing dry hair can cause frizz. Finally, wear a hair bonnet or sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent frizz and preserve your hairstyle.
Type 3B
3B hair has a tighter wave than 3A. The circumference of your curls will be the size of a Sharpie. The curls spring from the roots and give you a lot of volume. As with the other wavy types, you’ll need moisture to retain the shape of your curls. Again, style it while it’s wet to minimize frizz. Also, avoid products that can silicone or sulfates since they can lead to excessive dryness and breakage.
Type 3C
With type 3C, curls tend to be tight and springy. You can wrap your curls around a drinking straw. You’ll typically find a lot of knots because the curls are so tight. Combing this type of hair can cause breakage and tends to be quite dry. You’ll need plenty of moisture. Instead of brushing your hair, use a wide tooth comb. When washing your hair, use your fingertips to run through your hair while using a conditioner to soften it.
Type 4: Coily Hair
Of the different hair types, this hair type is the driest. You’ll need a lot of moisture. Since the curl pattern is so tight, you’ll need to handle your hair with care to prevent breakage and hair thinning. Also, consider wearing looser styles to prevent breakage. Make sure the style allows for moisturizing.
Type 4A
With this type, you’ll have an S-shaped coil that can wrap around a chopstick. A style you can set and leave is best. Avoid brushing unless you add conditioner before brushing. When you do brush, start from the bottom and move your way up. This prevents tugging and breakage.
Type 4B
These curls have a zigzag formation. When your hair is wet, you can detangle it with your fingertips. Use leave-in conditioner to moisturize and soften your hair. Then separate your hair in sections and work in curl cream and gel. Next, take your finger and twist the strands around it as you go.
Type 4C
This is the most fragile and tightest curl of all the hair types. It is very easy to break, so it’s vital to nourish your hair with oils and rich conditioners. Coconut oil and shea butter are great options. To further retain moisture, wash your hair less often. This will allow you to keep the natural oils in your hair. Some people with this hair type have started co-washing instead of using shampoo. Co-washing is a conditioning formula that doesn’t strip or dry the hair as much as shampoo.
