• CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
  • CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
  • CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
  • CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
  • CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
  • CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
  • CURATED IN JODHPUR (INDIA), CRAFTED IN ITALY.
0

Your Cart is Empty

How to Know Your Hair Type: Ultimate Guide

October 17, 2024 7 min read

Types Of Hair

Do you know what type of hair you have? When it comes to hair care, knowing your hair type is important. However, each hair type requires specific care and attention to remain healthy, shiny and strong. Understanding your hair type will help you to use the hair care products which suit you and your hair care routine as well. Whether you are having straight, wavy, curly, coily hair, you should take care of the hair in that manner.

If you are not aware about what type of hair you have, then you can't give your hair the proper care which is needed. However, this comprehensive guide will clear all your doubts and will give you the best hair care solutions.

What Determines Your Hair Type?

Before learning about the different types of hair, we should learn about the factors which determine hair types. It is important to understand what contributes to the structure and behavior of your hair. The main factors that determines the hair types are -

  • Curl Pattern: The shape of your hair follicles whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly or coily. 
  • Hair Thickness: Hair can be fine, medium or thick depending on the diameter of each strand.
  • Hair Porosity: How well your hair absorbs and retains moisture plays a very important role in its texture and overall health.
  • Density of hair: The number of strands on your scalp influences how thick or thin your hair looks.
  • Scalp Moisture: Oily, dry, or balanced scalp can also affect the moisture levels of your hair.

The Andre Walker Hair Typing System

One of the most widely recognized systems for the classification of the hair is the Andre Walker hair Typing System. It is named after the celebrity hairstylist, Andre Walker. This system classifies the hair into four main types: 

  • HAIR TYPE 1 - Straight Hair
  • HAIR TYPE 2 - Wavy Hair
  • HAIR TYPE 3 - Curly Hair
  • HAIR TYPE 4 - Coily Hair
  • Each category has subcategories (A, B, C) based on the hair’s thickness, curl pattern and texture. Let’s explore each hair type in detail.

    HAIR TYPE 1 - Straight Hair

    On Straight Hair Side

    Straight hair is often characterized without the curls, or waves. It is the smoothest and most reflective above all hair types. They often appear shiny because the natural oils from the scalp can easily travel down the hair shaft. But, this type of hair has the following subtypes:

    • 1A - These types of hair are very fine, flat and smooth. This type is typically soft and is prone to become oily quickly because the natural oils move easily down the strands.
    • 1B - These types of hair are slightly thicker and have more volume than 1A. But they seem to be thinner and straight. This type of hair may hold a curl for a very short period of time but will return to straight.
    • 1C - Coarse and thick hair with more body and texture. However, it tends to be more resistant to styling and is often frizz free.

    Hair Care tips for Straight hair 

    • Use Lightweight Products - Straight hair can quickly become greasy, so choose for the lightweight shampoos and conditioners.
    • Cleanse Regularly - Build up can weigh down the straight hair, often making it appear limp. Use a clarifying hair care products like shampoo, once a week to remove residue.
    • Avoid heavy Oils - Instead of thick and heavy oils, go for light serums or hair sprays to maintain shine without greasiness. 

    Type 2 - Wavy Hair

    Wavy hair often falls between straight and curly hair. It has a loose, flowing texture and can be prone to frizz, especially in humid environments. It is usually thicker than straighter hair but it is less thicker than curly hair. However, this hair type also has subtypes:

    • 2A - Loose, fine waves that are easy to manage. They do not have much frizz or volume. Rather, they can easily transition to straight or curly with the right styling tools. 
    • 2B - These are often more defined waves that start from the mid-length of the hair. It often tends to be frizz prone and needs more moisture to keep the waves in place.
    • 2C - These types of hair are thick, coarse waves with a noticeable S shape. This type of hair is often frizzy and can hold a curl but requires proper hydration and care.

    Hair Care Tips for Wavy Hair

    • Moisturize - Wavy hair can be prone to dryness, so use hydrating conditioners to define your waves. 
    • Control Frizz - Opt for anti-frizz hair serums or creams, especially in humid conditions.
    • Don’t over-wash - Washing too often can strip the natural oils from the hair, leading to frizz. Always aim to wash 2-3 times per week.

    TYPE 3 - Curly Hair

    On Curly Hair Side

    Curly hair forms well-defined loops and curls that range from loose to tight. This hair type is often drier than the straight or wavy hair because it takes time for natural oils to reach the ends of the hair. Just like other hair types, this hair type has the following subtypes:

    • 3A - These types of hair are often loose, have large curls that are soft and bouncy. They tend to be shiny and have a well-defined curl pattern.
    • 3B - These are tighter curls with more volume. This type of hair is more prone to frizz and needs more moisture than 3A.
    • 3C - This type of hair has very tight curls. This has a lot of volume, but can become dry and frizzy without proper hydration.

    Care Tips for Curly Hair 

    • Use a Sulfate Free Shampoo - Sulfates can strip off the natural oils from the curly hair, so opt for gentle and sulfate free shampoo.
    • Deep Condition Regularly - Curly hair benefits from the regular deep conditioning treatments to lock in moisture and maintain curl definition.
    • Avoid Brushing - Brushing curly hair can cause breakage and frizz. Use a wide tooth comb or finger detangle when wet to prevent damage.

    TYPE 4 - Coily/Kinky Hair

    Coily or kinky hair refers to the tight curls or zigzag patterns that can range from the soft and fine to coarse and wiry. This type of hair is naturally dry because the oils from the scalp may not reach the hair shaft. Coily hair is dense, and often appears shorter due to shrinkage. When stretched, the tight curls appear longer. It has the following subtypes:

    • 4A - Soft and fine curls that make tight curls. This type retains more moisture than 4B or 4C, but still requires regular hydration.
    • 4B - These are very tight curls with a more zigzag pattern. They are more prone to breakage and require extra moisture to prevent dryness. 
    • 4C - The tightest and more fragile of all hair types. They are densely packed with a zigzag pattern and are prone to shrinkage, often appearing shorter than they actually are.

    Care tips for Coily/kinky hair 

    • Hydration is Must - Coily hair thrives on moisture. Use rich, creamy conditioners and nourishing oils to keep the hair hydrated.
    • Avoid heat Styling - Coily hair is more prone to heat damage, so avoid excess use of these heat styling tools. 
    • Protective Styling - Consider protective styles like braids or twists to prevent damage and reduce the need for constant manipulation.

    Hair Porosity & Density

    Besides the curl pattern of hair, it is essential to consider other factors like hair porosity and density to fully understand the type of hair and its needs.

    Hair Porosity:

    The porosity is the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture. There are 3 levels of porosity:

    • Low Porosity: Hair cuticles are tightly packed, which makes it difficult for moisture to penetrate. Product buildup can also occur with the hair.
    • Medium Porosity: Hair cuticles are slightly raised, allowing for a good balance of moisture retention.
    • High Porosity: Hair cuticles are wide open, which means moisture can be absorbed easily but lost quickly. This type is more prone to frizz and damage.

    Hair Density

    Density of hair refers to how many strands of hair are there on the scalp. Hair can have:

    • Low Density: Sparse and may require volumizing products.
    • Medium Density: Neither too thick nor too thin.
    • High Density: Thick and may need detangling tools and heavier products to manage.

    Conclusion

    However, to sum up, understanding your hair type is essential. It is the first step towards achieving healthier hair. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly or coily hair, different hair types requires different hair care routines. Adjusting your hair care routine to your specific needs will make a world of difference. By considering the factors like curl pattern, thickness, porosity and hair density, you can choose the right hair care products and techniques to bring out the best of the natural hair.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How can I determine my hair type?

    You can determine your hair type by looking at your hair's natural curl pattern, texture, and behavior. Pay attention to how your hair reacts to moisture and whether it forms straight, wavy, curly, or coily patterns.

    Can I have more than one hair type?

    Yes, many people have a mix of hair types. For example, you might have wavy hair at the roots but curly ends.

    What is the best way to care for coily hair?

    Coily hair requires lots of moisture and protection. Use hydrating products, avoid heat, and consider protective styles to minimize breakage.

    How does hair porosity affect my routine?

    Hair porosity influences how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. Low-porosity hair may need lightweight products, while high-porosity hair benefits from richer, more hydrating products.

    Can hair type change over time?

    Yes, hair type can change due to factors like age, hormones, or damage from styling and treatments.

    Leave a comment

    Comments will be approved before showing up.


    Also in Blogs

    How to Remove Dryness from Scalp
    How to Remove Dryness from Scalp: A Complete Guide

    October 27, 2024 8 min read

    Read More
    how to get shiny hair naturally at home
    10 Tips on how to get shiny hair naturally at home

    October 23, 2024 7 min read

    Read More
    Scalp Massage For Natural Hair Growth: Tips & Tricks
    Scalp Massage For Natural Hair Growth: Tips & Tricks

    October 12, 2024 6 min read

    Read More