What is my hair type

What is my hair type

If you ask most people, they won't know their hair type, and for good reasons. It's not exactly straightforward or obvious. So, let's dive into the diverse world of hair types to help you understand how to balance your scalp, tame the frizz, and everything in between because finding out what your hair type is and its characteristics will help you learn about care tips to support you in achieving the best hair possible. Did we mention hair is our love language, and everyone deserves fabulous hair!

Hair Types Overview

Now, hair is generally classified into four main types, with further subcategories. These classifications are based on the following criteria… curl pattern, density, thickness, and overall texture. The primary hair types are:

1. Straight (Type 1)
2. Wavy (Type 2) 
3. Curly (Type 3)
4. Kinky/Coily (Type 4)

Let's delve into each type and its subcategories so you can identify your type. 

Type 1: Straight Hair

• 1a: Fine/Thin
• Characteristics: Very soft, hard to style, often oily, lacks volume.
• Care Tips: Use volumising shampoos and light conditioners. Avoid heavy styling products that can weigh down the hair.
• 1b: Medium
• Characteristics: More body than 1a, holds styles better, still prone to oiliness.
• Care Tips: Opt for balancing shampoos and conditioners. Light styling products can help maintain volume without causing oiliness.
• 1c: Coarse
• Characteristics: Thick, difficult to curl, generally resistant to styling.
• Care Tips: Use moisturising shampoos and conditioners. Strong hold styling products are beneficial for maintaining styles.

Got straight hair? Dive deeper into our article specifically for straight hair types here. 

Type 2: Wavy Hair

• 2a: Fine/Thin
• Characteristics: Light S-shaped waves, easy to style, holds curls or straightening well.
• Care Tips: Use light, hydrating shampoos and conditioners. Light serums and styling products help define waves without weighing them down.
• 2b: Medium
• Characteristics: More defined waves, some frizz, prone to losing curl definition.
• Care Tips: Use frizz-control products and hydrating shampoos. Medium hold styling products are ideal.
• 2c: Coarse
• Characteristics: Thick waves, resistant to styling, significant frizz.
• Care Tips: Opt for anti-frizz serums and deep conditioning treatments. Stronger hold styling products help maintain wave definition.

Got wavy hair? Dive deeper into our article specifically for wavy hair types here. 

Type 3: Curly Hair

• 3a: Loose Curls
• Characteristics: Large, loose curls, defined yet prone to frizz.
• Care Tips: Use sulfate-free shampoos and moisturising conditioners. Cream-based styling products help maintain curl definition.
• 3b: Tight Curls
• Characteristics: Springy, ringlet curls, prone to dryness and frizz.
• Care Tips: Deep conditioning treatments and leave-in conditioners are essential. Use anti-frizz serums and curl creams.
• 3c: Corkscrew Curls
• Characteristics: Tight corkscrew curls, very voluminous, tends to be dry.
• Care Tips: Heavy moisturising products, oil-based serums, and curl creams are beneficial. Avoid sulfates and opt for co-washing.

Got curly hair? Dive deeper into our article specifically for curly hair types here. 

Type 4: Coily Hair

• 4a: Soft Coils
• Characteristics: Defined, tight coils, very dense, prone to shrinkage.
• Care Tips: Use thick, creamy moisturisers and leave-in conditioners. Regular deep conditioning and oil treatments are crucial.
• 4b: Z-shaped Coils
• Characteristics: Less defined curls, sharp angles, very dense and dry.
• Care Tips: Opt for heavy moisturisers, butter-based products, and oils. Protective styling helps maintain moisture.
• 4c: Tightest Coils
• Characteristics: Very tight, dense coils, almost no definition, maximum shrinkage.
• Care Tips: Intensive moisturising and protective styles are essential. Use leave-in conditioners, butters, and oils liberally.

Got coily hair? Dive deeper into our article specifically for coily hair types here. 

Basic Hair Care Tips for All Hair Types

1. Identify Your Hair’s Needs: Do you need moisture, volume, frizz control, or strength? Answering these questions for yourself and understanding your hair’s unique needs is the first step in choosing the right products.
2. Avoid Over-Washing: How often should you wash your hair? Washing too frequently can strip hair of its natural oils. We suggest washing your hair 1-3 times a week, depending on your hair type.
3. Use the Right Products: How do you select the right haircare shampoo and conditioner? Select shampoos, conditioners, and styling products formulated for your specific hair type is the goal, and if you’re not sure, reach out to get help. It’s not always obvious, so don’t be shy.  
4. Protect from Heat: Wondering how to avoid hair damage? Use heat protectants before styling with hot tools or using the hair dryer to prevent damage.
5. Regular Trims: How to I manage split ends? Keep your hair healthy and free from split ends by getting regular trims.

As you can see, understanding your hair type is the foundation of an effective hair care routine and know which products  were designed for your own unique hair combination. By choosing the right products and adopting hair care practices that support your hair type, you can guarantee your hair remains healthy, vibrant, and manageable.