You may have heard terms like type 1C, 2B, or 4A. But what do those terms really mean? If you’re confused about hair types, we’re here to help. Here’s your brief guide to hair types so you can finally understand what all those labels mean and which one fits your hair.
Straight Types
1A
Type 1A hair is perfectly straight. It tends to be thin and shiny but difficult to curl. If you have type 1A hair, you’ll likely need to turn to dry shampoos and texture sprays rather than adding texture via curls. But with such gorgeous, gleaming tresses, who needs curls?
1B
Type 1B hair is still straight but has a bit more body than type 1A hair. It may be fine and will hold curls at the ends. Steer clear of heavy products that will weigh your hair down, and instead, focus on adding volume at your roots.
1C
Type 1C hair has gentle bends in its loose texture. It will hold curls, so virtually any style is an option. However, you should avoid heavy products and over-shampooing.
Wavy Types
2A
Type 2A hair tends to be straight from the scalp to your eyes. Then, it develops soft waves. Don’t weigh down your hair with oils and serums. Instead, use mousse and gel to make your waves pop.
2B
Type 2B hair also begins to curl around the eye but with more distinct “S” shapes than seen in type 2A. It’s super simple to create beachy waves in type 2B hair by using a bit of salt spray. However, you may also deal with more frizz than in straighter types.
2C
With type 2C hair, your waves begin near your scalp and have a very defined “S” shape. It tends to be thicker than other wavy subtypes and more likely to frizz in the humidity. If you have type 2C hair, you’ll want to use a diffuser when drying and stick to mousse to help define your waves.
Curly Types
3A
Type 3A hair forms loose curls about as large around as the bottom of a taper candle. If you brush type 3A hair, your curls will lose their definition, leaving you with bushy, frizzy tresses. Instead, use curl-defining products and opt for styles that show off your curls.
3B
Type 3B hair forms spiral curls from the crown of your head down. If you have type 3B hair, you’ll want to add plenty of moisture and stay away from drying ingredients like sulfates and silicone, which could damage your hair.
3C
Type 3C hair grows into tight corkscrew curls. They’re easily damaged, so air dry instead of blow drying your hair. You should also use a leave-in conditioner and your fingers to define your curls rather than brushing or combing.
Coily Types
4A
Type 4A hair has tight, “S”-shaped coils. Although you have tons of volume, your hair tends to be dry because your natural oils don’t travel down the entire hair shaft. You’ll need to avoid heat, consider protective styles, and frequently moisturize your hair.
4B
Type 4B hair falls into a crimpy “Z” shape. You’ll want to avoid washing too frequently and opt for techniques like twisting and shingling to style your hair. Moisturizing is also important for 4B hair.
4C
Type 4C hair has a zigzag pattern that shrinks as it dries. 4C hair also tends to be extremely dry and fragile. Use lots of natural oils and butters to nourish your locks.
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