No two heads of hair are the same. In fact, there are four different types of hair, each with its own set of specific needs.
To get the most out of your locks, it’s important to know what type of hair you have and how to care for it properly.
So, let’s take a closer look at the four types of hair and their corresponding care tips. Read on to learn more!”
You may also like: How to determine your hair type
What Are the Four Types of Hair?
The four main types of hair are straight, wavy, curly, and kinky.
Type 1: Straight hair
Type 2: Wavy hair
Type 3: Curly hair
Type 4: Coily hair
Each of these types can be further divided into sub-categories based on the thickness of the strands.
For example, straight hair can be categorized as
- fine (type A),
- medium (type B), or
- thick/coarse (type C).
The same is true for wavy, curly, and kinky hair.
Each type of hair has its own unique challenges when it comes to styling and maintenance. However, with the right products and techniques, anyone can achieve their desired look.
Type 1: Straight hair
Type 1: Straight Hair
1A Hair Type:
Type 1A hair is 100% straight with no wave or curl. It is also very fine in terms of hair thickness.
Styling
As a result, this hair type is more delicate and prone to damage or breakage. So, you need to take extra care of it and stay away from harsh products or treatments that could make it even weaker.
Fine hair is also hard to style in any way other than straight because it has a small diameter and lacks the body to hold a curl.
Speaking of heat styling tools, you should use them sparingly and on the lowest setting to prevent heat damage and frizz.
Type 1A hair is easy to weigh down with heavy hair products, so avoid using serums or butters. The best way to style type 1A hair is with lightweight haircare and styling products. Dry shampoo can be helpful in keeping this type of hair looking fresh.
This type of hair needs more volume than other hair types. Blow drying upside down with a round brush can give your hair an extra lift. Try using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, and use a root booster when blow drying.
Cleansing
1A hair type tends to get oily quickly because its shaft is smoother and less porous than other hair types. This makes the oils sit visibly on top of the hair instead of being absorbed. The best way to remove these excess oils is washing your hair every day or every other day.
Cutting
Too many layers will make fine hair appear thinner. Precise, one-length cuts are often the best option.
1B Hair Type:
Most people with straight hair fall into this category. The strands are thinner and have a little more body and volume than type 1A hair. But it is still thinner than type 1C hair.
Styling
1B hair has a slight bend, so it holds curls better than 1A hair.
There are many ways to style 1B hair. Try a blowout for a sleek and polished look, or use a curling iron to add some soft waves.
But be sure not to overdo it on the heat-styling tools, as this type of hair is still delicate and prone to damage. Use a heat protectant and keep the temperature on low.
The good thing about 1B hair is that the natural oils can travel down the hair shaft a bit easier than 1A hair. This makes the hair look more shiny and less greasy.
1B hair is a bit oily at the root and drier at the ends. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner that won’t weigh hair down and keep volume at the root.
You can also add some texture with mousse or sea salt spray.
Cleansing
Overwashing can ramp up oil production, so it is important to only wash this hair type every few days. Don’t forget to use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup and balance the excess oils.
Cutting
Longer and layered haircuts are an easy and great way to take some of the weight off and add volume to your hair.
1C Hair Type:
1C hair type is coarse and usually very thick and dense. This hair type is also more voluminous than the other two straight hair subtypes because it has a little bit of wave underneath.
Styling
Coarse hair is naturally dry and prone to frizz because it needs more oil than the scalp can produce. But it is easy to manage as long as you keep it moisturized without weighing it down. Use a deep conditioner once per week to restore lost moisture, and don’t forget to apply oil-free serums to calm frizz.
1C hair can hold loose curls better than 1A or 1B hair, because is wavier. Due to its thick texture, tight curls aka ringlets might be hard to achieve.
One drawback of this hair type is that it is not as shiny as 1A and 1B hair types. To improve shine and smoothness, use a silicone-based serum.
Use roots-boosting products and blow-dry upside-down to maintain volume. Ionic technology and a cool shot button are your friends when it comes to managing this hair type.
Cleansing
Type 1C hair gets greasy quicker than other types of hair 2, 3 or 4. This is because it does not have many waves or curls, which allows the scalp oils to travel down the strands easily. Washing 1C hair every few days removes the excess oils that weigh it down.
Don’t use shampoos with sulfates because they strip the natural oils from the scalp and hair. This dehydrate your strands and leave it unhealthy.
Be sure to use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove product buildup.
Cutting
Haircuts with layers are a great way to add volume and take some of the weight off thick hair. Avoid cuts that are too blunt, as they will make your hair look heavy. A side part is a good option to help give your hair some movement and avoid a flat appearance.
Type 2 Hair: Wavy
2A Hair Type:
Type 2a hair is fine and often look thin. It has the loosest wave pattern of all wavy hair.
The strands are straighter from the roots to the eye level, but they get wavier from eye level down.
It is important to note that 2A hair is very easy to confuse with 1C hair. The biggest difference between the two is that 1C tends to be thicker than 2A. 2A is finer and flatter. Additionally, 1C has some volume and body while 2A does not.
Styling
2A hair type has a loose S-shaped pattern and a fine structure, which makes it easy to manage.
You also have the gift of being able to easily straighten or curl your hair. But, don’t forget that, high heat is not a friend of your fine strands. Heat styling tools, like straighteners and curling irons, can damage your hair if you use them too often.
After a shower, let your hair dry on its own for perfectly tousled locks. You don’t have to do anything to style your wavy hair because it naturally has bounce and body.
This fine hair type can easily feel weighed down. Therefore, it’s important to use light products when styling.
Cleansing
Finer strands are more likely to be denser than that of people with thicker hair. And, each of those follicles produce an oily or waxy matter, called sebum. Evidently, 2A hair tends to get greasy quickly.
It’s best to wash your hair no more than two or three times a week if you have an oily scalp. This will keep the oil under control and keep you from damaging your hair by overwashing it.
When it comes to shampooing, opt for hydrating and lightweight formulas that are sulfate-free.
Cutting
2A hair looks fantastic at shoulder-length. The longer your hair the more weighed down it will be and lose its gorgeous wavy texture. If you are looking for a way to achieve the appearance of fuller, thicker strands, consider layers. Layers will help give your hair the illusion of being thicker and can also add interest and dimension.
2B Hair Type:
2B hair is medium in texture and moderately wavy. It has ‘S’ shaped waves in the lengths, but the roots are flatter. This hair type can be described as “beach waves”.
Styling
It’s not too hard to style 2B hair if your main goal is to enhance the look of your waves. Use a leave-in treatment to hydrate while adding definition to your waves. This will also reduce frizz and flyaways.
To keep your waves looking nice, avoid using hairstyling products with alcohol. Alcohol-based products strip the natural oils from your strands and causes them to become dry and brittle.
2B hair is an ideal texture for curling and styling with hot tools, but wavy hair is highly porous and tends to dry out quickly. So, use heat styling tools sparingly and always remember to use a heat protectant.
Wavy hair can be easily weighed down. Flat roots can make your 2B hair type look limp and lifeless. To add body and texture to your strands, use a volumizing mousse or hair thickening spray at the roots.
Cleansing
2B hair is easily weighed down by product buildup, so it’s important to use a clarifying shampoo once a week.
It’s also important to not over wash your hair. Instead, use a volumizing dry shampoo in between washes to remove excess oil and give your hair a boost of body.
Cutting
For cuts, medium styles are often best as they can help weigh down your hair and minimize frizz. If you want to go shorter, ask your stylist for layers to help add texture. Avoid cuts that are too blunt as they will only accentuate frizz and puffiness.
How to Determine Your Hair Type
Your hair is one of your most important assets. Not only does it play a role in your appearance, but it can also be a reflection of your health and personality.
Therefore, it is important to take the time to understand your hair type and how to care for it.
The best way to determine your hair type is to let it air dry and then observe its natural shape.
- If your hair is straight, you will notice that the strands lie flat against your head.
- If your hair is wavy, the strands will have a gentle S-shaped curve.
- If your hair is curly, the strands will form tight spirals.
- And if your hair is kinky, the strands will twist or coil in a zig-zag pattern.
Once you have determined your hair type, you can research the best way to care for it.
The Benefits of Knowing Your Hair Type
Each type of hair has its own unique set of characteristics and knowing your hair type can help you to choose the best products and styles for your individual needs.
For example, people with thin hair may need to use lighter conditioners and oils to prevent weigh down, while those with thick/coarse hair may need heavier products to tame frizz.
In addition, understanding your hair type can also help you to troubleshoot problems such as excessive shedding or scalp sensitivity.
So if you’ve ever wondered why your friend’s hair care routine is so different from yours, it’s likely because her hair is a different type than yours. Knowing your hair type is the first step to achieving gorgeous, healthy locks.
How to Style and Care for Your Hair Type
Type 1: Straight Hair
Styling and caring for straight hair is relatively simple compared to other hair types.
The main concern with straight hair is that it can often look flat and lifeless. To combat this, stylists recommend using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, as well as getting regular trims to prevent split ends.
Type 2: Wavy hair
Wavy hair is characterized by its S-shaped curve. The best way to style wavy hair is to let it air dry or use a diffuser, and then use a curling iron or wand to enhance the waves. It is important to use products that will add moisture and definition to your waves, such as leave-in conditioners, serums, and gels.
Type 2A: Fine, thin wavy hair
Type 2B: Medium-textured wavy hair
If you have type 2B hair, your natural texture is a bit more defined than 2A. Your waves are usually S-shaped and range from medium to large.
Type 2C: Thick, coarse wavy hair
Type 2C hair is the curliest of the type 2 category. Your waves are usually tight and well-defined, and they range from small to large.
Type 3: Curly Hair
Curly hair is characterized by its tight spirals. The diameter of a curly hair strand is often very small, which makes it dry and prone to tangles. So, it is important to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, as well as a deep conditioner or mask at least once a week. When styling curly hair, it is best to let it air dry or use a diffuser, and then use a light gel or cream to define the curls.
Type 4: Kinky Hair
Kinky hair is characterized by its zig-zag pattern. Kinky hair is the most prone to damage and breakage out of all the hair types because of its fragile structure. In its natural state, kinky hair is often very dry and has a tendency to be brittle. It is also the least likely to retain moisture, which makes it difficult to style.
While kinky hair may be the most challenging to care for, it is also the most unique and beautiful of all the hair types. When properly cared for, kinky hair can be healthy, soft, and lustrous.
What determines hair shape?
Your hair’s shape is determined by the shape of your hair follicles. The follicle is the tiny tube in your skin that a strand of hair grows out of.
If your follicles are oval-shaped, then your hair will be straight.
If your follicles are curved, then your hair will be wavy.
And if your follicles are spiral-shaped, then your hair will be curly.
Environmental factors, such as humidity and temperature, can also affect the shape of your hair. For example, if it’s humid outside, then your hair will likely be more frizzy than if it was dry. Similarly, if it’s cold outside, then your hair may be more brittle and prone to breakage.
Ultimately, though, the majority of what determines your hair’s shape is determined by genetics. So if you’re unhappy with the way your hair looks, you can always blame it on your parents!
Can you change your hair type?
Attitudes towards hair have changed a great deal over the centuries. In some cultures, straight hair is seen as a symbol of beauty, while in others, curly or kinky hair is more highly prized.
However, regardless of cultural preferences, it is generally accepted that hair type is determined by genetics.
Unfortunately, this means that it is not possible to permanently change your hair type. Chemical treatments such as straightening or curling can alter the appearance of your hair, but the results are only temporary. If you want to change your hair type permanently, your best bet is to consult a professional stylist about options such as wig or extensions.
Long-lasting treatments to change hair type
If you’re tired of your current hair type, you may be considering a treatment to change it. While there are many temporary solutions available, such as styling products and perms, these only provide temporary results. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, there are a few options available. One popular option is Japanese straightening. This treatment uses chemicals to break down the bonds that give your hair its shape. The result is straight, smooth hair that can last for months. Another option is Keratin treatment. This treatment works by infusing your hair with Keratin, a protein that helps to strengthen and protect it. As a result, your hair will be smoother, shinier, and more manageable. If you’re looking for a dramatic change, you might also consider bleaching or coloring your hair. While these treatments can be harsh on your hair, they can provide stunning results. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a treatment that will help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.
Temporary ways to change hair type
There are a variety of temporary methods that can be used to change the texture or type of hair. These methods can be useful for those who want to experiment with their look without making a permanent commitment. One popular temporary method is called Japanese straightening. This process uses chemicals to break down the bonds that give hair its natural shape. As a result, the hair is left straight and sleek. The treatment typically lasts for several months, although it can begin to fade after just a few weeks. Another temporary option is called perming. This process uses chemicals to break down the bonds in the hair, creating new bonds that give the hair a new shape. Perms typically last for 6-8 weeks, although they may need to be redone sooner if the hair starts to return to its natural state. Both of these options provide a way to change the look of your hair without making a permanent commitment.
HOW HAIR TYPE CAN CHANGE OVER TIME
Just as our bodies and facial features change as we age, so does our hair. Age, hormones, diet, and other factors can all impact the health and appearance of our locks. For example, many people find that their hair becomes thinner and less lustrous as they age. This is due in part to a decrease in the production of hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Furthermore, the sebaceous glands that produce oil begin to slow down with age, leading to drier, more brittle hair. Luckily, there are a number of ways to combat these changes. Regular trims can help to keep hair looking its best, and treatments like deep conditioning can help to fortify dry, damaged strands. In addition, paying attention to diet and taking supplements like biotin can also improve the health of our hair over time. So even though our hair type may change as we age, there are still plenty of ways to keep it looking its best.
What determines hair type?
The type of hair someone has is determined by a number of factors, including genetics, age, and gender. For example, people of Asian descent typically have straight hair, while those of African descent usually have curly hair. Age is also a factor: as we get older, our hair typically becomes finer and thinner. Finally, men and women tend to have different types of hair. Men usually have coarser, thicker hair, while women typically have softer, finer hair. All of these factors come into play when determining someone’s hair type. So if you’re ever wondering why your friend has such gorgeous curly locks while you’re stuck with straight and boring hair, blame your parents…and maybe your age and gender too.
Permanent ways to change hair type
If you’re looking for a more permanent way to change your hair type, there are a few options available. One popular choice is to get a Keratin treatment. This treatment works by infusing your hair with Keratin, a protein that helps to strengthen and protect it. As a result,
