Everyone has a unique hair type, which is determined by the shape of the hair follicle. The shape of the hair follicle determines whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly or coily.
If you’re someone who has curly hair, you will know that there are different types of curl patterns. In this article, we will discuss the different curl types, how to determine your curl type and how to take care of your curls.
Different Types of Curl Patterns
There are four main types of curl patterns based on the shape of the hair strand:
- Straight
- Wavy
- Curly
- Coily
Straight Hair
As the name suggests, straight hair has no curl pattern. The hair is smooth, glossy and reflects light easily. Straight hair tends to be oily, which means it needs more frequent washing.
Wavy Hair
Wavy hair is in between straight and curly hair. It has S-shaped waves that are loose and tend to start from the mid-shaft of the hair. Wavy hair is prone to frizz and is more likely to be dry at the ends.
Curly Hair
Curly hair has tight, spiraled curls that can range from loose to very tight. Curly hair tends to be dry, and it requires more moisture to keep it healthy.
Coily Hair
Coily hair is also known as kinky hair. This hair type has a tight coil pattern that can range from fine to coarse. Coily hair tends to be dry, brittle and prone to breakage. It requires a lot of moisture and careful handling to stay healthy.
Determining Your Curl Type
Determining your curl type is essential in knowing how to properly care for your hair.
The simplest way to determine your curl type is to look at a single strand of your hair when it’s wet. If you have curly hair, the curl pattern will become more apparent when your hair is wet.
Another way to determine your curl type is by using the hair typing system, which was developed by hairstylist Andre Walker. The system categorizes hair into four categories, with each category having subcategories based on the density and texture of the hair strand.
Andre Walker’s Hair Typing System
| Hair Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Type 1 | Straight Hair |
| Type 2 | Wavy Hair |
| Type 3 | Curly Hair |
| Type 4 | Coily Hair |
Type 1 hair is straight, with no curl pattern. Type 2 hair has a loose “S” pattern that can range from fine to coarse. Type 3 hair has tight curls that range from loose to very tight. Type 4 hair has a tight coil pattern that can range from fine to coarse.
Within each hair type, there are subcategories that determine the hair’s density, texture and porosity. Understanding your hair type and subcategory can help you choose the right hair products and styling techniques.
Density
The density of your hair refers to how much hair you have on your head. There are three levels of hair density: low, medium and high.
- Low Density: Thin hair with less than 200 strands per square inch.
- Medium Density: The most common hair density, with 200-300 strands per square inch.
- High Density: Thick hair with more than 300 strands per square inch.
Texture
The texture of your hair refers to how fine or coarse the hair strand is. There are three levels of hair texture: fine, medium and coarse.
- Fine: The hair strand is thin, and it can be easily damaged.
- Medium: The hair strand is neither coarse nor fine.
- Coarse: The hair strand is thick, and it’s usually resistant to styling.
Porosity
Porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. High porosity hair absorbs moisture easily, but it loses moisture just as quickly. Low porosity hair has a hard time absorbing moisture, but it retains moisture well once it does.
Taking Care of Your Curls
Caring for curly hair requires a lot of maintenance, but with the right techniques and products, you can keep your curls looking healthy and defined.
Cleansing
How often you should wash your hair depends on your hair type and your lifestyle. If you have straight hair, you may need to wash your hair every day to prevent it from getting too oily. If you have curly hair, you may need to wash your hair less often to prevent it from becoming too dry.
When washing your hair, it’s essential to use a sulfate-free shampoo, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils. You can also co-wash your hair with a cleansing conditioner, which is a gentler way of cleaning your hair without stripping it of its natural oils.
Conditioning
Conditioning is vital for curly hair because it provides moisture and helps detangle the hair. Look for a conditioner that’s specifically formulated for your hair type, and leave it on for at least five minutes to allow it to penetrate the hair.
Deep conditioning is also essential for curly hair. You can use a deep conditioner once a week to provide extra moisture and nourishment to your hair.
Detangling
Detangling curly hair can be challenging because the hair tends to tangle easily. To detangle your hair, start by using your fingers to gently separate the hair. Then, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to remove any knots or tangles.
If you have coily hair, it’s best to detangle your hair when it’s wet, as this makes it easier to comb through.
Styling
The key to styling curly hair is to work with your natural curl pattern. Avoid using heat styling tools, as they can damage your hair and alter your curl pattern.
Instead, use products that are specifically formulated for your hair type to define your curls and control frizz. You can use a curl-defining cream or gel, and scrunch your hair to encourage your natural curl pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to care for coily hair?
Coily hair requires a lot of moisture, so it’s essential to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. You can also use a leave-in conditioner, and apply a hair oil or butter to seal in moisture. - How often should I wash curly hair?
It depends on your hair type and lifestyle. If you have oily hair, you may need to wash your hair more frequently. If you have dry hair, you can wash your hair less often to prevent it from becoming too dry. - What is the best way to detangle curly hair?
Start by using your fingers to separate the hair. Then, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to remove any knots or tangles. If you have coily hair, it’s best to detangle your hair when it’s wet. - What is the best way to style curly hair?
Work with your natural curl pattern, and avoid using heat styling tools. Use products that are specifically formulated for your hair type to define your curls and control frizz. You can use a curl-defining cream or gel and scrunch your hair to encourage your natural curl pattern.
Conclusion
Your curl pattern plays a significant role in how you should care for your hair. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly or coily hair, it’s essential to choose the right products and techniques to keep your hair healthy and defined.
By understanding your curl type and following a proper hair care routine, you can achieve beautiful, healthy curls that look great every day.
References
- Anderson, E. (2021). The Ultimate Guide to Curl Types. The Cut. Retrieved from https://www.thecut.com/article/types-of-curly-hair.html
- Osman, M. (2020). Understanding Hair Porosity and How to Care for Your Hair Type. Glamour. Retrieved from https://www.glamour.com/story/hair-porosity-guide
- Walker, A. (2019). Andre Walker Hair Types. Curly Nikki. Retrieved from https://www.curlynikki.com/andre-walker-hair-types