Get To Know Your Curls! What’s Your Curly Hair Type?

Nope! There isn’t just one category for curly hair. It’s actually quite a journey trying to figure out your curly hair type. It’s important to find out what type of curls you have because with each category, a different type of care is required. Selecting the wrong hair care routine can make you end up with rough, unruly hair, that is difficult to style. Need help figuring it out? That’s what Beauty Insider is here for! Let’s get started.

Curly Hair Types

There are nine types of curly hair. Our hair goes through many changes over time. You may have realised that your hair texture is not the same as when you were a child or a teenager. Figuring out your hair type takes a lot of exploration, getting to know every curl, and i being patient throughout the process will help too. Some types are closer to each other visibly, hence making it quite a challenge to figure out which category you fit in. We’ve broken down the categories for you, and hope it’ll help you discover your hair type!

Type 2a

This curly hair type is often described as wavy. This type of hair has a slight “S” shape. It has a fine density that requires care that is the least complex compared to other curly hair types.

Type 2b

For the 2b curly hair type, the hairs are slightly more wavy than 2a type. The curls typically form throughout the hair, from to to bottom. These type of curls tend to get slightly frizzy near the crown of the head. The hairs also can lose its curl definition easily, and can appear less wavy on some days. The best way to maintain the curls is to use hair styling products and provide it with enough nutrients such as from argan oil and coconut oil.

Type 2c

We are beginning to steer away from waves and meet some curls. This hair type consists of more curls than waves. Typically, it begins with waves on the crown of the head and slowly flows into smaller curls. The curls are coarser than the waves in most cases, and may need some extra attention with hair products such as oils, and conditioner. Because there are two different types of textures in every strand, you may need different products for the ends. To excentuate those curls, seek for products that have formulation for curly hair.

Type 3a

These type of curls are more springy in comparison to the prior types. The curls are well defined and begin from the crown to the roots! They’re not too small but are very defined. They’re super bouncy and require specific curly hair products to maintain the hair texture and not cause any frizz. Check out some tips for your curly hair here!

Type 3b

With slightly smaller and defined curls than Type 3a, this curly hair type has more volume! Even when wet, you can easily see how curly it is. The curls are wilder and bouncier. Alexa, play “Can’t Be Tamed” by Miley Cyrus!

Type 3c

Type 3c curls are small and are just about the circumference of a pencil. They are much more coarse and dense compared to other Type 3 curls. Maintaining your curls can be complex and require a few products and a good hair care routine. Hair masking is one way to keep the frizz away. Don’t be afraid to experiment with products, it’ll be worth it when you find the right one (and I’m speaking from experience!).

Type 4a

Type 4a curls are curls with tight coils. They have a circumference of a crochet needle with a defined curl pattern. There are specific ways you can style your gorgeous curls. Check out this video and get styling, gorgeous!

Type 4b

To identify this type of curl, take a look at the texture. The strands usually come with a “Z” shape with a hard-to-identify pattern. Instead of curling the hair will bend sharply. They often coil tightly and can feel “wiry” to the touch as referred to by Byrdie. Take a look at the video to find out a good routine for your hair type!

Type 4c

Type 4c hair have strands that often never clump together if you don’t use some styling techniques. This type of curly hair can range from fine to course and packed strands that are dense.

Found your curly hair type? Time to rock ‘em! Show off your lucious curls and tag us on Instagram and Facebook! See you there, Beauties.