12 Hair Types: How To Find Out Yours & Truly Care For It

Hair Types

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Ever wondered why your hair doesn’t behave the same way as your friend’s? Or why a certain hair product works wonders for some but leaves you with a frizzy mess?

It all boils down to one key factor: your hair type. Understanding this basic yet crucial aspect can be a game-changer in managing and styling your locks.

In this article, we’ll explain hair types and help you figure out what makes yours different. Every type of hair, from straight to curly, has its own traits and needs that require different care and attention.

So, are you ready to learn more about the interesting science of hair? Let’s get going. It will not only make it easy for you to choose the right products, but it will also teach you important things about hair health and appearance.

What Does Hair Type Mean?

When you’re on a quest to find the perfect products for your hair, it’s crucial to know your hair type. You might be wondering, “What exactly does ‘hair type’ mean?”

It’s not as complex as it seems. Simply put, hair types are determined by the natural shape or pattern of the strands.

If you’ve ever heard terms like ‘type 2’ or ‘coarse texture,’ these are all part of the language used to describe different hair types. Let’s break it down:

  1. Straight (Type 1): This category includes hair that’s naturally straight and doesn’t hold curls well.
  2. Wavy (Type 2): Hair that falls somewhere between straight and curly belongs here.
  3. Curly (Type 3): If you have spirals or ringlets instead of waves, this is likely where your locks fit in.
  4. Coily/Kinky (Type 4): The most textured type includes tightly coiled or zig-zag patterns.

You can even go a step further with classifications within each group depending on how pronounced your curls are, like Type 3A for loose curls or Type 3B for tighter ones.

Hair TypesCharacteristics
Straight (Type 1)Naturally straight and doesn’t hold curls well
Wavy (Type 2)Falls somewhere between straight and curly
Curly (Type 3)Spirals or ringlets instead of waves
Coily/Kinky (Type 4)Tightly coiled or zig-zag patterns
Hair Types

Different Hair Types: Hair Types Chart

To comprehend the diversity of hair textures, it’s essential to understand that there are four main types: Straight, Wavy, Curly, and Kinky. Each one is unique in its way, demanding specialized care to maintain its health and beauty.

First off, we have Type 1: Straight hair. It’s recognized for being shiny, often oily, and usually resists common curling techniques.

Subcategories include 1A, 1B, and 1C but don’t fret about differentiating between these, as your care routine doesn’t change drastically with each subcategory.

Next up is your Type 2: Wavy hair. This type sits comfortably between straight and curly – not too oily, yet not overly dry either. You’ll find three specific subtypes here (2A, 2B & 2C), all featuring soft S-like waves.

Third on our list is the lively world of Type 3: Curly hair. Positioned mid-scale in terms of curliness, this type exhibits naturally defined curls resembling ringlets.

Be aware, though; it tends to be on the drier side since natural oils from the scalp struggle to reach down each strand completely. Here again, you encounter three subtypes (3A/3B/3C).

Finally comes your hardy bunch – the resilient warriors known as Type 4: Kinky Hair or oily texture if you prefer!

Common among African American women, these tightly coiled locks may appear robust due to several strands packed together, but they’re surprisingly fragile when dealt with individually. Unsurprisingly there are three distinct categories within this type as well – namely 4A/4B/4C.

TypeCharacteristicsSub-Types
Type 1: Straight HairShiny, Oily, resists curling1A/1B/1C
Type 2: Wavy HairNot too oily nor too dry, S-like waves2A/2B/2C
Type 3: Curly HairNaturally defined ringlet curls, Dry3A/3B/3C
Type 4: Kinky HairTightly coiled, Fragile yet strong looking4A/4B/5C
Hair Types

Type 1: Straight Hair

Straight hair, the first category in our comprehensive guide on hair types, is distinguished by its sleek, smooth texture and shine.

You’ll find that this type of hair has a natural glossiness because oil from the scalp can easily travel down the hair shaft.

For those with straight hair, it’s important to remember that your locks may be prone to getting greasy faster than other types.

This happens due to an even distribution of sebum (natural scalp oils) along the length of your strands. On a positive note, you’re likely less prone to dryness and breakage.

CharacteristicsDescription
ShineHigh – due to evenly distributed oils
VolumeLow – tends not to hold curls well
GreasinessTends towards high – as oils travel down easily

The ease or difficulty of styling will largely depend on whether you have fine or thick straight hair:

●       Fine Straight Hair: If you’ve got fine straight hair, you might struggle with limpness and lack of volume. A volumizing shampoo could become your best friend.

●       Thick Straight Hair: Those with thick straight locks often fight against stubbornness when it comes to curling or adding waves.

When trying out different hairstyles, people with straight hair often face problems that people with curly hair don’t have. Curlier hair doesn’t hold curls as well, and bands may come out more easily than with curlier hair.

Your choice of products should match these traits. Choose lighter solutions that won’t weigh down your hair but will still get rid of any tendency to get oily. Most dry shampoos work well to soak up extra oil without leaving behind any waste.

Remember: while every type has its perks and quirks, there’s no such thing as “bad” hair! Embrace what nature gave you – after all, many crave the effortless shine that comes naturally with Type 1: Straight Hair!

Type 2: Wavy Hair

Welcome to the world of Type 2: Wavy hair! If you’ve got locks that form loose S-shaped patterns, it’s likely you’re in this category.

Unlike straight hair, wavy hair has a bit more body and volume. It also tends to be slightly dry because the natural oils produced by your scalp have a harder time traveling down the length of your waves.

Understanding your specific type of wavy hair is key to maintaining its health and beauty. Generally, wavy hair is classified into three subtypes:

  • 2A: Fine and thin with subtle S-wave pattern.
  • 2B: Medium-textured with more prominent S-waves.
  • 2C: Thick or coarse with definite S-waves – often referred to as ‘twirly’ waves.

Here’s how these subtypes compare:

SubtypeTextureWave Pattern
2AFineSubtle
2BMediumProminent
2CThickDefinite

Remember, each subtype requires different care routines. For example:

  • If you’re a Type 2A, lightweight products like mousses will enhance your delicate waves without weighing them down.
  • For Type 2B folks out there, hydrating shampoos can help combat frizz while maintaining those beautiful curves in your tresses.
  • And if you’re rocking Type 2C waves? Heavier creams and butters are perfect for defining those bolder spirals.

Maintaining moisture balance is crucial for all types of wavy hair since it tends towards dryness. So don’t forget regular conditioning treatments!

With knowledge about Type 2: Wavy Hair at hand, you’ll be better equipped to understand what works best for your unique locks – ensuring they always look their vibrant best!

Type 3: Curly Hair

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of curly hair, or as it’s often referred to, Type 3 hair. This type of hair has a definite ‘S’ shaped pattern and comes with its unique set of characteristics.

Type 3 curls are typically voluminous, climate-dependent, and prone to frizz. They’re also known for their versatility.

Your curls can range from loose loops to tight corkscrews. It’s important to understand that within this category, there are subcategories – 3A, 3B, and 3C.

  • Type 3A: Curls have a looser pattern and circumference, similar to sidewalk chalk.
  • Type 3B: You’ll find a mix of textures with ringlets that have the circumference of a Sharpie marker.
  • Type 3C: These are densely packed curls, usually the size of a pencil or straw.

Each subtype requires different care routines, but they all share one common trait: hydration is key!

Curly hair tends to get dry because the natural oils from your head have trouble getting down the tangled strands. So keeping it wet is important for taking care of this type of hair.

Curly hair can stay healthy if you use good conditioners and deep treatment masks and don’t use heat-style tools. Also, using wide-tooth combs instead of brushes will keep curls from breaking while reducing damage.

Last but not least, don’t forget monthly trims! About once every six weeks cut off any split ends to keep your curls looking full and healthy.

Type 4: Kinky Hair

Peeking into the world of hair types, you’ll find a myriad of variations. Type 4, or kinky hair, stands out due to its unique attributes and specific care needs.

Typically characterized by an extremely tight curl pattern, type 4 hair is often referred to as kinky or coily. It’s densely packed and can feel wiry or cottony. This category breaks down further into three subtypes:

  • Type 4A – Defined coils that follow an S pattern when stretched.
  • Type 4B – Z-patterned strands with less defined curls.
  • Type 4C – Very tightly coiled with almost no defined curl pattern.

Each subtype has its own special charms and problems. Dryness is a regular worry for people with type 4 hair. This happens because the natural oils on your head have a hard time getting down the spiraled hair shafts.

To fix this problem, you need to use products that add wetness to your hair, like deep conditioners and leave-in treatments. Using protective wigs can also keep your hair from breaking and help it grow.

Understanding how each subtype behaves will help you better manage your mane:

SubtypeCurl PatternCharacteristics
Type 4AS PatternWell-defined coils
Type 4BZ PatternLess defined curls
Type 4CTight CoilsAlmost no defined curl

If you’re blessed with kinky tresses, remember they require a bit more TLC compared to other types. Regular conditioning treatments are essential, along with gentle detangling methods.

Hair Types
Hair Types Chart

What Determines Hair Type?

Your hair type isn’t just a random occurrence. In fact, several factors determine it. This includes your ethnicity, the shape of your hair follicles, and even genetics.

Let’s start with your ethnicity. It plays a significant role in defining your hair type. You’ll find that African heritage often leads to curly or coily hair types, while Asian descent usually results in straighter locks.

Your hair follicles’ shape also has an impact on your hair type. An oval-shaped follicle typically produces curly or wavy strands, while round follicles tend to create straighter hairs.

Last but not least, let’s talk about genetics. Just like you inherit traits such as eye color and height from your parents, you also get certain aspects of their hair characteristics – including its texture and density.

Here’s a quick rundown:

FactorImpact on Hair Type
EthnicityInfluences the overall structure and texture of the hair
Shape of FolliclesDetermines if the strands will be straight or curly/wavy
GeneticsPasses down traits, including texture and density

You see? Your unique mix of these factors shapes what we commonly call ‘hair types.’ But remember this – regardless of how you categorize it, each person’s mane is unique with its own charm!

Can You Change Your Hair Type?

Have you ever wished you had a different kind of hair? You might have straight hair and want curls, or you might have wavy hair and want it to be smooth and straight. It makes sense to wonder if you can change your hair type.

First of all, it’s important to know that your hair type is mostly determined by your genes. This means it can be hard to change it in a normal way.

But don’t lose hope! Even if you can’t change your hair’s texture for good, there are ways to make it look different for a short time.

A variety of styling tools and products can help create the illusion of different hair types. For example:

  • Heat styling tools like flat irons or curling wands
  • Hair rollers for creating waves or curls
  • Texturizing sprays and mousses

These methods offer temporary solutions – once you wash your hair, it’ll revert back to its original form.

As we delve deeper into the world of permanent changes – things get trickier. Chemical treatments such as perms or relaxers can alter your hair structure more long-term, but they come with risks.

They work by breaking down protein bonds in your hair’s structure and then reforming them in a new shape.

TreatmentEffect
PermAdds curl/wave
RelaxerStraightens

Even though these treatments can give you the results you want, keep in mind that they also cause damage that could lead to dryness or breaking if you don’t take care of your hair properly afterward.

And let’s not forget the effect of nature! Hormonal changes from getting older, being pregnant, or taking medicine can also change the thickness of our hair over time.

So, while it may be hard (and even dangerous) to change what Mother Nature gave you for good, you can definitely make brief changes with a few styling tricks up your sleeve.

But always remember: no matter what kind of hair you have, be kind to it and enjoy its unique beauty because it’s yours.

How To Find Your Hair Type

Understanding your hair type is crucial for choosing the right products and care routines. Let’s delve into this interesting topic.

You might think identifying your hair type would be as easy as looking in a mirror. However, it’s a bit more complex than that. There are four main categories of hair types: Type 1 (straight), Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily).

Straight hair, or Type 1, is typically shiny and oily due to the lack of curls preventing oil from spreading down the hair shaft. If you’ve got straight strands, they fall flat from root to tip.

Next up is wavy hair, known as Type 2. It lies somewhere between straight and curly, forming an ‘S’ shape. Wavy types can vary in thickness and the overall amount of wave present.

For those with spirals in their locks, you have curly hair or Type 3. Curly strands form definite S-shaped loops with volume at the roots.

Finally, there’s coily or kinky, classified as Type 4. This type forms tight curls or zig-zags right from the scalp.

But how do you figure out which category your mane falls into? Well, start by washing your tresses but avoid applying any product afterward – we want them in their most natural state.

Then simply allow your locks to air dry without touching them during the drying process! Once completely dried, observe what pattern – if any – emerges!

In addition:

  • Check for other characteristics such as shine level and frizz tendency.
  • Consider factors like porosity – how well does your strand absorb moisture?
  • Also, pay attention to density – how closely are individual strands packed together on your scalp?

Use these insights wisely when picking out products tailored specifically for you! Keep rocking those beautiful locks!

How Hair Porosity And Density Affect Natural Hair

Understanding the role of porosity and density in your hair health can be a game changer. Let’s delve into these key factors that determine how your hair behaves.

Porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb moisture. If you’ve got highly porous hair, it means there are numerous holes in its surface layer – the cuticle. You might naturally have porous hair, or it could be due to chemical and heat processing which increases porosity.

Because the skin has holes, your porous hair can take in more water. Living in a place that is humid? As the skin pulls moisture from the air, your hair may tend to frizz. But don’t worry!

There is a silver lining, though: porous hair also takes in products that keep it moist quickly. These holes can be filled in with anything from leave-in conditioners to rich butter, making your head easier to style.

On the other hand, locks with fewer holes can fight moisture, whether it comes from the air or from chemicals.

To keep hair from getting too heavy and dull from product buildup, use clarifying shampoos once a week and choose lighter products like mousses or milks to add volume.

Pro Tip: Blow drying can help open up tight lips so that products can be better absorbed.

Now, let’s talk about density, which is just a fancy word for how many hairs you have on your head if it’s hard to see your scalp without parting your hair, congratulations!

You probably have thick hair. On the other hand, if it’s easy to see your skin without a part, you have low-density hair.

Hair density is affected by many things, such as worry, changes in hormones during pregnancy or menopause, and even what you eat. Seeing differences in density? It might be time to look at the offering again.

If you have thin hair, avoid heavy products that could make it even flatter. Instead, try texture sprays and light mousses to add volume and lift. Those with thicker hair, on the other hand, will benefit from creams and butters that are thicker and less shiny.

Hair Types

Style And Hair Care for Your Type of Hair

Not sure how to control your hair? Let’s learn about the different hair types and the styling and care tips that experts suggest for each one.

How To Style Type 1: Straight Hair

Straight hair tends to get oily quickly. To avoid adding extra oil, be mindful of the products you choose – heavy serums or butters may not be your friend here.

Instead, opt for texture sprays or dry shampoos, as suggested by stylist Kristi Lovelace. Don’t over-wash either; it can lead to overproduction of oils from your scalp. A popular style that complements straight hair is a chin-length blunt cut – perfect if you’re after a modern look.

How To Style Type 2: Wavy Hair

Wavy hair comes in three forms – 2A, 2B, and 2C:

  • Type 2A: This type has loose waves starting from eye level down. Keep away from oil-based products that might flatten those waves; instead, use light mousse or gel.
  • Type 2B: Here, the S-shaped curls are more defined. It’s easier to achieve beachy looks with this type using salt spray.
  • Type 2C: If your S-shaped waves start near the crown of your head, then you have Type 2C wavy hair. You’ll want anti-humidity products like lightweight mousses that also contain moisture.

How To Style Type 3: Curly Hair

Curly-haired folks can identify themselves under three categories –

  • 3A: With looser S-shaped curls about as wide as a taper candle’s end, brushing isn’t recommended as it can disrupt curl definition.
  • 3B: These curls are tight like marker barrels! Remember they need hydration but avoid silicone & sulfates, which can cause breakage.
  • 3C: The tightest corkscrew curls belong here! Preserve these by raking through wet hair with fingertips using leave-in conditioner instead of combing.

How To Style Type 4: Coils

Coily-haired people fall under three categories –

  • 4A: Your delicate S-coils would wrap around chopsticks easily! Deep conditioning masques work wonders here rather than oils.
  • 4B: Zig-zag coils in this category benefit greatly from singling, where curling cream is worked down each dampened curl strand twisted around fingers.
  • 4C: The most fragile coiled category needs constant nourishing via rich conditioners such as coconut oil & shea butter creams.

Conclusion On Hair Types

You’ve read everything we had to say about hair types. It’s clear that you need to know your hair type to keep it healthy and full of life.

We’ve learned how to take care of straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair, as well as the changes between them.

You might be wondering why this is important. So, it’s not hard at all! When you know what kind of hair you have, you can choose products that are made for that kind of hair. There are many shampoos, creams, and tools for styling hair that are made for different hair types.

So, now that you know more about your hair, go out and show it off! Accept that they are different from you because those differences are part of what makes you who you are.

If you take care of your hair in a way that fits its thickness and structure, there’s no end to how lush it can look.

We’ve learned a lot about the different kinds of hair out there. Keep looking until you find what works best for YOUR hair because no one knows YOUR hair better than YOU.

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