Curly Hair Types Chart: How To Figure Out Your Curl Pattern

Embracing your curls starts with understanding them. At RUSH, we’ve seen countless curls bounce through our doors, each as unique as the person sporting them. But did you know that identifying your specific curl pattern is the secret to unlocking your hair’s full potential?

Your curl type isn’t just a fun fact – it’s the key to choosing the right products, mastering the perfect styling techniques, and finally achieving those dream curls you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re rocking tight coils or loose waves, knowing your curl pattern is the first step to a good hair day, every day.

Understanding Curly Hair Types

Curly hair isn’t one-size-fits-all. It ranges from loose waves to tight coils, each with its own unique needs. Hair specialists typically categorise curls into types 2 (wavy), 3 (curly), and 4 (coily), with subtypes A, B, and C indicating increasing tightness within each category.

Curl typing is a system that helps identify these patterns, allowing you to tailor your hair care routine effectively. Knowing your curl type guides you in selecting the right products and styling techniques that work best for your specific texture. For instance, type 2 waves might need lightweight products to avoid weighing down the hair, while type 4 coils often require intense moisture to maintain their shape and health.

By understanding your curl pattern, you can embrace your natural texture, enhance your curls’ definition, and achieve healthier, more manageable hair.

Curl Types Explained

The curl type system revolutionised how we understand and care for curly hair. This system categorises hair from Type 1 (straight) to Type 4 (coily), with subtypes A, B, and C indicating increasing curl tightness. The classification is based on curl diameter, texture, and pattern.

Type 1 is straight, Type 2 is wavy, Type 3 is curly, and Type 4 is coily. Each type has unique characteristics and needs. For example, Type 2A might have loose, S-shaped waves, while 4C has tight, Z-shaped coils.

This system, along with methods like L.O.C. (Leave-in, Oil, Cream), helps individuals choose appropriate products and styling techniques. Knowing your curl type allows you to tailor your hair care routine, leading to healthier, more manageable curls and reducing common issues like frizz or dryness.

Identifying Your Curl Type

To determine your curl type, start by observing your hair when it’s clean, product-free, and air-dried. Look at the shape your hair naturally forms:

• Type 2 (Wavy): S-shaped waves, ranging from loose bends (2A) to more defined waves (2C)
• Type 3 (Curly): Springy curls, from looser loops (3A) to tighter corkscrews (3C)
• Type 4 (Coily): Tightly coiled, from S-shaped coils (4A) to Z-shaped patterns (4C)

Consider factors like:

• Curl diameter: Wrap a strand around a pencil. Does it wrap loosely (Type 2) or tightly (Type 4)?
• Shrinkage: More shrinkage often indicates tighter curls
• Texture: Fine, medium, or coarse

Remember, you might have multiple curl types on your head. Focus on the most predominant pattern for general care but adjust for different areas as needed.

Curl Types in Detail

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each curl type, exploring their unique characteristics and needs. We’ll break down Types 2, 3, and 4 into their subtypes (A, B, and C), providing detailed descriptions of each.

Type 2: Wavy Hair

2A: Characteristics:

• Fine, thin waves with a barely-there S pattern
• Hair is mostly straight at the roots, with slight bends towards the ends
• Prone to frizz and easily straightened
• Often lacks volume at the roots

Care Tips:

• Use lightweight, volumising products
• Avoid over-washing to maintain natural oils
• Apply mousse or light gel to damp hair for definition
• Consider salt sprays for added texture

2B: Characteristics:

• More defined S-shaped waves
• Waves start closer to the roots
• Tends to be frizzy with more volume than 2A
• Can appear straight when wet

Care Tips:

• Focus on frizz control with anti-humidity products
• Use leave-in conditioners for added moisture
• Scrunch hair while drying to enhance wave pattern
• Try the “plopping” technique for definition

2C: Characteristics:

• Thick, coarse waves bordering on curly
• Distinct S-pattern throughout hair length
• Prone to frizz and dryness
• High volume potential

Care Tips:

• Use heavier styling products like curl creams
• Deep condition regularly to combat dryness
• Apply products to soaking wet hair for even distribution
• Diffuse on low heat to enhance wave pattern

Type 3: Curly Hair

3A: Characteristics:

• Loose, big curls about the width of a piece of chalk
• Defined S-shaped curls with lots of bounce
• Prone to frizz in humidity
• Often has a mix of textures

Care Tips:

• Use light gels or mousses for definition
• Avoid heavy products that can weigh curls down
• Try the “rake and shake” method for clumping curls
• Use a microfiber towel to reduce frizz

3B: Characteristics:

• Springy, tight curls about the width of a Sharpie pen
• Well-defined ringlets
• Can be prone to dryness and frizz
• Often experiences significant shrinkage

Care Tips:

• Focus on moisture with leave-in conditioners
• Use curl creams for definition and hold
• Try the “shingling” method for defined curls
• Avoid touching hair while drying to reduce frizz

3C: Characteristics:

• Tight corkscrew curls about the width of a pencil
• Very densely packed curls
• Tends to be voluminous and prone to significant shrinkage
• Often a mix of textures and curl sizes

Care Tips:

• Use heavy creams and gels for moisture and hold
• Deep condition regularly, consider overnight treatments
• Try the “Denman brush” method for curl definition
• Use a hooded dryer or diffuser on low heat

Type 4: Coily Hair

4A: Characteristics:

• Tightly coiled S-pattern, about the width of a crochet needle
• Springy, dense curls that are well-defined
• High shrinkage and prone to dryness
• Delicate hair structure prone to breakage

Care Tips:

• Use heavy creams and butter for moisture
• Focus on moisture retention with the LOC method
• Detangle gently
• Try twist-outs or braid-outs for stretched styles

4B: Characteristics:

• Z-shaped pattern with sharp angles
• Less defined curl pattern than 4A
• Very prone to dryness and shrinkage
• Dense, spongy texture when dry

Care Tips:

• Regular deep conditioning, consider steam treatments
• Use protective styles to reduce manipulation
• Apply products in sections for even distribution
• Try the “maximum hydration method” for definition

4C: Characteristics:

• Tightly coiled Z-pattern, sometimes with no visible curl
• Extremely prone to dryness and breakage
• Experiences the most shrinkage of all curl types
• Very dense, kinky texture

Care Tips:

• Intense moisturising routines, possibly daily
• Gentle handling to prevent breakage
• Protective styling is key for length retention
• Use heavy butters and oils to seal in moisture
• Consider low-manipulation styles like twists or braids

Embracing Your Natural Curls

Your curl pattern is as unique as your fingerprint – it’s part of what makes you, you! Embracing your natural texture isn’t just about hair care; it’s about self-love and confidence. Remember, there’s no “good” or “bad” curl type – each pattern has its own beauty.

Celebrate your curls by:

• Experimenting with styles that enhance your natural pattern
• Learning to work with, not against, your hair’s natural tendencies
• Sharing experiences with other curly-haired individuals
• Focusing on hair health rather than trying to change your curl type

Book Your Hair Appointment Now

Ready to embrace your curls and give them the care they deserve? Our expert stylists at RUSH are here to help you make the most of your unique curl pattern. Whether you’re still figuring out your curl type or looking for tailored styling tips, we’ve got you covered.

Find your nearest hair salon and book an appointment today – let us help you unlock the full potential of your curls. Our team is trained in the latest techniques for curly hair care and can provide personalised advice on products and routines that will work best for you.