Type 2 Hair: What it is and How to Take Care of It

Type 2 hair is distinguished by its signature “S” shape and is often classified as wavy hair. Type 2 is one of the most common hair types in the world, but it comes with its own host of problems. Type 2 hair can often be misidentified as frizzy hair – which is thanks to the hair losing its natural shape due to not using the correct products. If you’re curious about determining the best products for your hair type and learning the best methods for looking after your hair, then this guide will provide insights from the experts at RUSH. This blog will offer professional advice, essential dos and don’ts, and suggestions for flattering hairstyles tailored to your hair type. Whether you’re new to embracing your waves or looking to refine your hair care routine, our top tips and tricks will help you make the most of your type 2 locks.

What is Type 2 Hair?

Type 2 hair, commonly known as wavy hair, is characterised by its distinctive “S” shaped pattern, with the pattern that falls between straight and curly. This hair type struggles with the lack of volume at the roots, fast product build-up and oiliness. Without taking the proper measures and using the correct products, type 2 hair loses its natural shape, leaving the hair looking dull, dry and damaged. 

Type 2 hair is categorised into three subcategories: 2a, 2b, and 2c. Type 2a features a gentle wave that many still choose to straighten for a sleeker look. Type 2b has more pronounced waves, which can be enhanced with products like dry shampoo and salt spray for added volume and texture. Type 2c is the most prominent of the subtypes – this subcategory verges on curly hair.

By identifying your hair type, you can better your hair care routine and styling techniques to enhance your hair and get the most out of your locks!

Type 2a

Type 2b

Type 2c

Differences Between Type 1 Hair and Type 2 Hair

While type 1 and type 2 hair are often confused due to their appearance, both have their own unique characteristics which set them apart. Type 1 hair is defined by its straight appearance, lacking texture and body. Type 2 hair is recognised through its gentle “S” pattern, setting it apart from Type 1. Recognising these differences is the key to understanding your hair’s needs and selecting the correct hair care routine to get the most out of your locks.

Read: What is Your Hair Type?

How do I figure out my hair type?

1. Observe your hair’s natural state: After washing, allow your hair to air dry without styling. Note whether it dries straight, wavy, curly, or coily.
2. Assess hair thickness: Take a single strand and roll it between your fingers. If you barely feel it, you have fine hair. If you can feel it, that’s medium hair. If it feels thick or coarse, you have coarse hair.
3. Check your hair’s porosity: This refers to your hair’s ability to absorb moisture. Observe how long it takes for your hair to dry naturally. Quick-drying indicates high porosity, while slow-drying suggests low porosity.
4. Evaluate your scalp’s health: Determine if your scalp is dry, oily, or balanced. This factor also plays a pivotal role in your overall hair type.

How to Care for Type 2 Hair

Type 2 hair, commonly referred to as wavy hair, is distinguished by its ‘S’ shaped pattern. People with type 2 hair often struggle with their hair looking flat, frizzy, and lifeless. By following RUSH’s top tips, you can enhance the natural beauty of your type 2 hair and keep your waves looking luscious:  

1. Avoid hot water when washing your hair: Use lukewarm or cool water when washing your hair. Hot water strips away natural oils, leading your hair to dry out and become frizzier.
2. Minimise heat styling: Excessive heat can damage your hair’s natural structure and dries out its natural oils. We’d recommend air dying your hair. If you must use heated tools, always apply a heat protectant spray first.
3. Reduce washing so often: While type 2 hair is notoriously bad for product build up, overwashing can leave your hair looking frizzier. We’d recommend using products specifically designed for wavy hair to maintain its structure.
4. Use the correct products: Choose shampoos, conditioners, and styling products formulated for wavy hair to enhance the hair’s natural shape and prevent frizz.
5. Deep condition regularly: This will help to maintain moisture levels and to define your waves.

Dos for Type 2 Hair

• Use the Right Hairbrush – Type 2 hair can often look frizzy and damaged when not looked after correctly. We’d recommend finding the right hairbrush to ensure that your hair isn’t becoming more damaged when brushing. Try a boar bristle brush to maintain your hair’s structure!
• Deep Condition Regularly – By regularly deep conditioning your locks, you will rehydrate your frizzy hair and make your waves look luscious. 
• Use a Shampoo and Conditioner
• Formulated for Type 2 Hair – Using products specifically formulated for type 2 hair can help to combat the hair’s natural frizz, conditioning each individual strand of hair to be left with silky nourished hair. 

Don’ts for Type 2 Hair

• Don’t Overwash – Over-washing the hair can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can cause the scalp to dry out, and for those with type 2 hair, this means that dreaded frizz returns! We’d recommend challenging yourself to go longer between washes to train your hair. 

• Limit Heat Styling – Try to avoid your use of hot tools and if you must use heat styling tools, always use a heat protectant spray. We’d also recommend allowing the hair to dry naturally.

Expert Tip from Rush

The road to healthy, gorgeous hair starts with the right haircare. To get your waves looking luscious, we’d recommend finding a shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for your hair type. These will help you to target your hair’s problem areas: frizz, dryness and the lack of volume. 

Best Hairstyles for Type 2 Hair

Type 2 hair has its struggles when it comes to styling, so here are our top hairstyles for your hair type. 

Bangs 

Bangs are a great option for those with type 2 hair, as they add texture and dimension to the hair. Bangs are quintessentially chic, being a style that requires regular cuts with low maintenance in between cuts. This cut also requires little to no styling every day either. The length of the hair should be kept longer, preferably to the shoulders or lower, with this look working best on an oval face, as the bangs are great for framing a striking face.

Braids 

Braids are perfect for giving a more polished look, keeping the hair tidier – working perfectly for those with type 2 hair who are trying to tame the frizz. Why don’t you try out a French braid to spice up your style? And don’t worry, whilst a French braid looks very intricate, it’s actually one of the simplest braids to master!

Half Up, Half Down

This look is the perfect balance between edgy and neat, you can still wear your hair down whilst having a small section of it pulled back, which makes it a perfect option for those with type 2 hair who are wanting to make their locks look a little tidier. While some strands hang loose and drop-down.  It’s both cool and chic, mixing the relaxed nature of long hair with the low-effort appeal of tying up your hair.

Book Your Hair Appointment Now

Looking to refresh your style? Take the first step towards your hair transformation by booking an appointment with our expert stylists. Visit RUSH.co.uk to book an appointment online or find a salon near you for a personalised consultation. Experience the RUSH effect and let us bring out the best in your hair.