But you can’t pick the right products or develop a care routine until you know the different curly hair types and what type of curls you have. In hair care, curly hair is not one-size-fits-all—it’s a category, and each curl type should be handled with its own special attention.
What Are the Different Curly Hair Types?
Curly hair is typically classified into three main categories: Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily/kinky). These categories have subcategories ranging from loose waves to tight coils.
- Type 2: Wavy Hair
This type of hair has a soft “S” shape and ranges from loose to tighter waves.
2A: Fine, thin, easy to style.
2B: Tight waves with some frizz.
2C: Heavy waves with volume and frizz.
- Type 3: Curly Hair
The curls are springy and more defined. They loop and spiral.
3A: Soft, large curls with a soft texture.
3B: Tighter, more voluminous curls.
3C: Dense, coarse corkscrew curls.
- Type 4: Coily
It contains the tightest curls and is typically fragile and dry.
4A: Soft and defined coils.
4B: Less defined Z-shaped curls.
4C: Very close coils with shrinkage and not much definition.
Curly Hair Types Daily Routine Essentials
Healthy curls need to be maintained with a personalized hair care regimen. Curly hair prefers to be hydrated, least-manipulated possible, and taken care of in a protective way. The following steps are often recommended:
Cleansing: Wash once a week with a sulfate-free shampoo. One can use a co-wash in between washes.
Conditioning: Apply rich conditioners. Weekly deep conditioning is necessary.
Styling: Leave creams, curl definers, and oils help with moisture and shape.
Drying: Diffuser on low heat is best, or air dry.
Luxury Curly Hair Products
It is recommended that product labels are carefully examined, and products specific to curls selected for the best results.
Oribe Curl Control Silkening Crème: Formulated for Type 3 curls, this crème moisturizes and defines without rigidity.
Ouai Curl Crème: Admired for its air-light consistency, this product is ideal for Types 2A–2C. This enhances waves without frizz.Â
Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask: Perfect for Type 4 curls, this mask recovers moisture and reinforces breakable hair.
The best products for curly hair are always picked according to your type. For example:
- Wavy hair can be helped by light mousse or curl sprays.
- Curly hair loves rich leave-ins and curl creams.
- Coily hair needs heavy moisture and oils to fight dryness and shrinkage.
Understanding your curly hair type is the first step to embracing your natural texture with confidence. Each curl tells its own story, and with a bit of patience and care, your curls can thrive. Let your curly hair be worn with pride—beautiful, unique, and completely your own.
