Curly hair is a unique hair texture that is admired by many but it can be quite challenging to maintain. Understanding what curly hair is, can help manage it better. Curly hair is defined by its shape, which is usually in the form of corkscrew curls, ringlets, or waves, that form a natural pattern. Each hair strand is different and unique, making every curly head of hair different from the next.
If you have curly hair, it is important to know the type of curl pattern you have as this can guide you in choosing the right products and practices for taking care of it. In this article, we will be unlocking the mystery of perfect curls.
Types of curly hair
There are generally three types of curly hair: wavy, curly, and coily. Each of these types can be further broken down into different categories based on the texture, thickness, and density of hair.
Wavy hair
Wavy hair is the least curly type of hair and has a loose S-shaped pattern. It is typically thinner and more prone to damage than other types of curly hair. Wavy hair can be further classified into two types.
| Type of wavy hair | Shape | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Type 2a | Slightly Wavy | Has a subtle S-shaped pattern and is easy to manage. |
| Type 2b | Wavy | Has a more definite S-shaped pattern and tends to be frizzier. |
Curly hair
Curly hair has a well-defined S-shaped pattern and is typically thicker and coarser than wavy hair. Curly hair can also be classified into three types.
| Type of curly hair | Shape | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Type 3a | Loose Curls | Has a loose, circular pattern and is more prone to frizz than tighter curls. |
| Type 3b | Tight Curls | Has a tighter, springier pattern and tends to be drier than other types of curly hair. |
| Type 3c | Corkscrew Curls | Has a very tight and defined corkscrew-shaped pattern and can be difficult to manage. |
Coily hair
Coily hair has the tightest curl pattern of all hair types and is typically thicker and more prone to dryness than other types of hair. Coily hair can be further classified into two types.
| Type of coily hair | Shape | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Type 4a | Tight Coils | Has a tight, springy pattern and is prone to shrinkage and breakage. |
| Type 4b | Zigzag Coils | Has a zigzag pattern that can vary in size and shape, and is the most fragile of all the curly hair types. |
Understanding Curly Hair Texture
Curly hair texture can vary from fine to coarse and can also be affected by density and porosity. Understanding your hair’s texture, density, and porosity can help guide you in choosing the right products and practices for taking care of it.
Curly hair texture
The texture of curly hair can range from fine to coarse, with each texture affecting how the hair behaves, looks, and feels.
- Fine hair – Fine hair is thinner than coarse hair and can be more fragile. Curly fine hair can be easier to manage but can lack volume and body.
- Medium hair – Medium hair is a balance between fine and coarse hair. It has more body and volume than fine hair but is more fragile than coarse hair.
- Coarse hair – Coarse hair is thicker and stronger than fine hair. It is more resistant to breakage but can be more difficult to manage and style.
Curly hair density
Curly hair density refers to the number of hair strands on your scalp. The density can range from low to high, with each density having a different effect on how hair behaves, looks, and feels.
- Low density – Low-density hair has fewer hair strands on your scalp. The hair can be fine, and may not have a lot of volume.
- Medium density – Medium-density hair has an average number of hair strands on your scalp. The hair will appear fuller and may have more volume than low-density hair.
- High density – High-density hair has a large number of hair strands on your scalp. The hair will appear thicker, and may be more difficult to manage and style.
Curly hair porosity
Curly hair porosity refers to how easily the hair absorbs moisture. Knowing your hair porosity can help guide you in choosing products and practices that work best for your hair.
- Low porosity – Low porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles, making it difficult for moisture to penetrate the hair. The hair can be resistant to styling products and may take longer to dry.
- Medium porosity – Medium porosity hair has a balance between closed and open cuticles. The hair will absorb and retain moisture more easily, making it easier to style and manage.
- High porosity – High porosity hair has open cuticles, allowing moisture to penetrate the hair easily. Hair with high porosity may be prone to frizz, tangles, and breakage.
Caring for curly hair
Caring for curly hair can be a challenge, but with the right products and practices, it is possible to have healthy and beautiful curls.
Washing curly hair
Curly hair should not be washed every day, as this can strip the natural oils from the hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Washing once or twice a week is sufficient.
- Choose a shampoo that is specifically formulated for curly hair, free from harsh chemicals and sulfates.
- Conditioner is essential for curly hair, and the hair should be deep-conditioned once a week.
- Leave-in conditioner can be used to hydrate the hair and keep it moisturized between washes.
Drying curly hair
Drying curly hair can be tricky, but air-drying is the best option. If you are in a rush and need to use a hairdryer, use a diffuser attachment to reduce frizz and promote curl definition.
- Microfiber towels or cotton t-shirts are gentle on curly hair, and they can absorb excess water without causing frizz.
- Avoid using heat styling tools, as they can damage your hair and promote split ends.
- If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage to your hair.
Styling curly hair
Styling curly hair is all about enhancing your natural curl pattern.
- Avoid using greasy or oily products that can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.
- Use lightweight products that provide moisture and definition.
- Try different techniques such as pinning, plopping, or diffusing, to enhance or change your natural curl pattern.
Conclusion
Curly hair can be challenging to manage, but understanding its unique characteristics can make caring for it more manageable. Knowing your hair’s curl pattern, texture, density, and porosity can guide you in choosing the right products and practices to keep your hair healthy and beautiful.
Most Common Questions Related to What is Curly Hair
Here are the frequently asked questions about curly hair and their answers:
- What is curly hair?
Curly hair is a unique hair texture that is characterized by its natural pattern which forms corkscrew curls, ringlets, or waves. - How do I determine my hair type?
There are generally three types of curly hair: wavy, curly, and coily. To determine your hair type, you need to look at the shape of your curls and the thickness, texture, and density of your hair. - How do I take care of curly hair?
Caring for curly hair involves washing, drying, and styling it appropriately using the right products and practices. It requires frequent deep conditioning, moisturizing, and avoiding harsh chemicals, sulfates, and heat styling tools. - How do I style curly hair?
Styling curly hair involves enhancing your natural curl pattern using lightweight products that provide moisture and definition, and trying out various techniques like pinning or plopping.
References
- https://www.naturallycurly.com/hair-types
- https://africanamericanhairstyles.org/types-of-curly-hair
- https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/curly-hair#how-curly-hair-works
- https://www.glamour.com/gallery/curly-hair-type