The Complete Guide to Hair Types (1A to 4C) and How to Care for Each One

If you’ve ever wondered whether your hair is 2B or 2C, or why someone else’s routine doesn’t work for you, this guide is for you.

Hair type isn’t about good or bad. It’s about understanding your natural pattern so you can support it properly.

Type 1: Straight Hair

1A is very fine and flat.
1B has a little more body.
1C is straight but thicker and more resistant.

Straight hair tends to show oil quickly, so gentle cleansing is important. Over-conditioning can weigh it down.

Focus on lightweight hydration, balanced cleansing, and root lift rather than heavy styling creams.

Discover our Strength + Repair Duo + Serum + Dry Shampoo

Type 2: Wavy Hair

2A is loose and subtle.
2B forms more defined S-shapes.
2C borders on curly with stronger texture.

Wavy hair needs balance. Too much moisture flattens it. Too little causes frizz.

Use hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and panthenol, and enhance texture with lightweight styling support. Scrunching while damp helps waves form naturally.

Discover our Balance Duo + Mask + Serum + Sea Salt Spray

Type 3: Curly Hair

3A has loose curls.
3B forms springy ringlets.
3C has tighter corkscrews.

Curly hair thrives on moisture. Hydration first, then sealing with conditioning ingredients to reduce frizz and breakage.

Avoid over-cleansing. Gentle shampoos and consistent conditioning help maintain definition.

Discover our Maxim Moisturising Duo + Mask + Serum + Sea Salt Spray

Type 4: Coily Hair

4A has tight, defined coils.
4B forms sharper angles.
4C has dense, tight texture with minimal visible pattern.

Coily hair needs deep hydration and protection. Cleansing should be gentle and less frequent, with strong focus on moisture retention and low manipulation styling.

Hydration plus strength is key here.

Discover our Maxim Moisturising Shampoo + Mask + Serum 

Washing Frequency by Hair Type

Straight hair often needs more frequent washing.
Wavy hair benefits from spacing washes slightly.
Curly and coily hair generally thrive with less frequent washing and more hydration between cleanses.

Listen to your scalp, not just your ends.

The Golden Rule

No matter your type, healthy hair begins with a balanced scalp, gentle cleansing, and ingredients that hydrate and strengthen without suffocating.

When you understand your type, your routine becomes simpler, not more complicated.

With love,
The BodFood Team