Knowing your hair type is crucial to creating an effective hair routine. By understanding your hair’s density, coarseness, and curl pattern, you can determine how to care for it and what products work best with it!
Are you ready to get better acquainted with your hair? We’ll list a bunch of hair-related statements below, and all you have to do is tell us which ones apply to you (keep in mind, it might only be a couple!). And if you’re unsure, go with your gut!
Questions Overview
1. Your hair is thin, straight, wispy, and doesn’t hold curls at all.
- Agree
- Disagree
2. Your hair is straight but has volume, and you can sometimes curl it.
- Agree
- Disagree
3. Your hair is mainly straight, with a few waves here and there.
- Agree
- Disagree
4. Your hair is wavy and beachy with loose, S-shaped curls.
- Agree
- Disagree
5. Your hair is straight at the roots and has very pronounced S-shaped waves further down.
- Agree
- Disagree
6. Your hair is prone to frizz and extremely wavy—even a bit curly at times.
- Agree
- Disagree
7. Your hair has big, bouncy curls roughly the size of sidewalk chalk.
- Agree
- Disagree
8. Your hair has tight ringlets the size of a marker—and lots of volume.
- Agree
- Disagree
9. Your hair has springy, corkscrew curls the size of a pencil.
- Agree
- Disagree
10. Your hair has well-defined S-shaped coils the size of a chopstick.
- Agree
- Disagree
11. Your hair has tight, Z-shaped strands and coils that form a zig-zag pattern.
- Agree
- Disagree
12. Your hair has very sharp Z-shaped coils so tiny they don’t look like curls from a distance.
- Agree
- Disagree
13. You have fine, delicate hair (as opposed to medium or coarse hair).
- Agree
- Disagree
14. You have medium hair that isn’t super coarse or fine.
- Agree
- Disagree
15. You have thick, coarse hair (as opposed to medium or fine).
- Agree
- Disagree
More Quizzes
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Even though curls might be tough for you to achieve (even with an iron!), you can still play around with different cuts or bangs. Type 1 hair tends to get oily fast, so try using haircare products that won\u2019t add any extra oil to your hair if you have this type. Texture sprays or dry shampoos can help!
- Best hair feature:<\/b> Silky appearance and lovely shine.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get oily faster than other hair types.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use volumizing products and texture sprays to give your hair more body.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Style-Straight-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Style Straight Hair","id":4916287,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Style-Straight-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Style-Straight-Hair-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Style-Straight-Hair-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","alt":"How to Style Straight Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 1B.","meaning":"Type 1B hair has some volume\u2014and, even though it\u2019s straight, can hold curls when styled. It\u2019s thicker than type 1A but thinner than 1C. Some type 1B hair may even have a slight bend; in other words, it\u2019s straight but doesn\u2019t look totally flat, either.
Feathery layers and asymmetrical bobs both look amazing with this hair type! Like all type 1 hair, 1B tends to get oily faster than other types, so be sure to steer clear of products that might add more oil to your hair. Instead of heavy products like hair oil, serum, or butter, try texture spray and dry shampoo to keep your hair looking fresh.- Best hair feature:<\/b> Silky appearance and lovely shine.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get oily faster than other hair types.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use light volumizing products to give your hair more body.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Style-Straight-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Style Straight Hair","id":4916287,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Style-Straight-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Style-Straight-Hair-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Style-Straight-Hair-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","alt":"How to Style Straight Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 1C.","meaning":"Type 1C hair is still mostly straight, but it can have a few gentle waves\u2014especially around the chin. Type 1C also has more natural volume than the other type 1 hairs and often has a soft, tousled shape.
Try a layered cut to give your hair as much body as possible (while still keeping it lightweight and easy to style). Plus, don\u2019t be afraid to curl it when you\u2019re in the mood to try new hairstyles and looks; type C is thicker and coarser than other type 1 hairs, so it holds curls the easiest as well.- Best hair feature:<\/b> Smooth, gentle, eye-catching waves that give extra volume.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get oily faster than other hair types.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use light volumizing products to give your hair more body and definition.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Style-Straight-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Style Straight Hair","id":4916287,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Style-Straight-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Style-Straight-Hair-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Style-Straight-Hair-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","alt":"How to Style Straight Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 2A.","meaning":"Type 2A has naturally tousled, loose S-shaped waves. Its texture is generally smooth and fine, making it easy to style whether you\u2019re going for a curly or sleek, straight look.
Heavy products may weigh down your waves and flatten them, so avoid oil-based hair products or creams. Rather, give your wavy hair some definition by opting for a light mousse or gel! A shoulder-length haircut may also give the 2A texture more definition and volume since short hair puts less weight on each strand!- Best hair feature:<\/b> Fine, beautiful, and easy-to-style waves.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It lacks volume compared to other hair types.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use light, volume-boosting shampoo and conditioner to avoid weighing your hair down.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Care for Wavy Hair","id":657968,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Care-for-Wavy-Hair-Step-13.jpg","alt":"How to Care for Wavy Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 2B.","meaning":"Type 2B tends to be straight at the roots and have S-shaped waves from eye level to the end of each strand. Straightening these waves takes more effort, but they also have more volume and definition overall. These waves are moderately dense with lots of body and bounce!
Use sea salt spray to get an easy, beachy look\u2014or go for a one-length haircut to get some extra volume. Beyond that, if you\u2019re in the mood to splurge on color, a balayage style tends to go great with type 2B hair.- Best hair feature:<\/b> Bouncy, beachy waves that have plenty of volume.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get very frizzy\u2014especially in humid weather.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Avoid heavy hair products and let it air dry to minimize frizz.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Care for Wavy Hair","id":657968,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Care-for-Wavy-Hair-Step-13.jpg","alt":"How to Care for Wavy Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 2C.","meaning":"Of all the S-shaped waves, type 2C is the most well-defined. Type 2C hair tends to have a wave pattern starting close to the crown of the head and continuing all the way down each strand. It\u2019s thick and super voluminous, though it can also be prone to frizz.
This hair type can take longer to style, but don\u2019t sweat it; you\u2019ll just need the right products. Since type 2C hair is prone to dryness and breaking, be sure to moisturize and condition it. To cut back on frizz, try using a diffuser when you blow-dry your hair. You could also use a lightweight, anti-humidity mousse to give your hair all the definition with none of the frizz!- Best hair feature:<\/b> Amazing volume and gorgeous mix of waves and curls.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> Its texture can lead to excess frizz and dryness.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use a leave-in conditioner to moisturize and detangle your hair.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Care for Wavy Hair","id":657968,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Care-for-Wavy-Hair-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Care-for-Wavy-Hair-Step-13.jpg","alt":"How to Care for Wavy Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 3A.","meaning":"Type 3A hair has loose S-shaped curls that loop around; each curl is generally about the size of sidewalk chalk or a wine cork. This hair type doesn\u2019t need many haircare products to be maintained; it\u2019s naturally bouncy and well-defined!
However, brushing type 3A hair can actually cause curls to lose definition and get frizzy, so take care! Additionally, a ponytail or bun can actually cause curls to lose their formation and ultimately pull on your hair so much it causes thinning around your hairline\u2014so wear your hair down whenever possible and use hair products designed to define natural curls.- Best hair feature:<\/b> Lovely, loose spirals (that can still straighten pretty easily).
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It\u2019s prone to dryness and sometimes lacks volume.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Hydrate your hair with leave-in conditioners and hydrating hair masks.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Grow Thick Curly Hair","id":2346578,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/67\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair-Step-24-Version-5.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair-Step-24-Version-5.jpg","alt":"How to Grow Thick Curly Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 3B.","meaning":"Type 3B hair has spiral curls that look like bouncy ringlets; it has tons of volume and body! Curls tend to spring from the roots of the hair and are roughly as wide as a marker, with medium thickness and high density.
You\u2019ll need plenty of moisture to maintain your hair\u2019s natural spiral shape, so avoid products with silicone or sulfates (which can tame frizz but also dry out hair over time). Plus, try not to add too many products to your hair at a time since it can weigh down your curls! Short pixie cuts and lobs tend to look great with 3B hair, but long hair can be just as lovely\u2014especially with a side part.- Best hair feature:<\/b> Tight, springy, beautiful curls with lots of volume.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> Curls tend to get frizzy when brushed and are prone to dryness.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use a deep conditioner once per week to prevent dryness and breakage.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Grow Thick Curly Hair","id":2346578,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/67\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair-Step-24-Version-5.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair-Step-24-Version-5.jpg","alt":"How to Grow Thick Curly Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 3C.","meaning":"Type 3C hair is springy and voluminous, with corkscrew curls about as wide as a pencil or drinking straw. These curls tend to be tightly coiled and are the stiffest and densest of the type 3 subcategories.
This hair type isn\u2019t super difficult to style since it tends to look great when worn down after you simply wash it and go! Remember: instead of combing (which can cause your hair to frizz), try working a leave-in conditioner into your wet hair with your fingers after washing and let your curls air-dry instead of using a blow dryer. This hair type is hard to straighten without chemical treatment, so focus on finding products to moisturize it and refresh your curls!- Best hair feature:<\/b> Gorgeous corkscrew curls that have tons of definition and body.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It\u2019s often prone to dryness and tangling (because of how tight the curls are).
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use a deep conditioner once per week to prevent dryness and breakage.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Grow Thick Curly Hair","id":2346578,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/67\/Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair-Step-24-Version-5.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Grow-Thick-Curly-Hair-Step-24-Version-5.jpg","alt":"How to Grow Thick Curly Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 4A.","meaning":"Type 4A hair has an S-shaped pattern with tight coils roughly as wide as a chopstick or crochet needle. It\u2019s very delicate and needs lots of moisture; it also has the most defined curls compared to the other type 4 textures.
With this hair type, you can easily use a wash-and-go method and leave it loose; a protective style may actually dry it out. When kept loose, it\u2019s easier to moisturize your hair regularly! To keep your hair moisturized, try using conditioning masques, butters, and creams. In terms of styling, curly bangs tend to look great with this texture!- Best hair feature:<\/b> Amazing definition and softness.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It\u2019s delicate and prone to breakage.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use curl-defining products to sculpt your hair and avoid heat tools if possible.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Take Care of Natural Hair","id":561080,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair-Step-17.jpg","alt":"How to Take Care of Natural Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 4B.","meaning":"Type 4B hair has tight, Z-shaped coils that form a zig-zag pattern. Its coils are very tight and super dense. They also tend to be a bit less defined than 4A coils and are quite soft!
It takes a lot of moisturizing to maintain type 4B hair. Consider using oil on your scalp and hair to help lock in moisture; argan, grapeseed, and coconut oil all work super well with 4B hair. Try using flexi rods or perm rods to give your coils more definition. Alternatively, crown braids or a tuck and roll can also accentuate your hair\u2019s natural texture!- Best hair feature:<\/b> Tons of natural density, softness, and volume.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It may lack moisture.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Use styling products that define your natural curl pattern and moisturize it whenever possible.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Take Care of Natural Hair","id":561080,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair-Step-17.jpg","alt":"How to Take Care of Natural Hair"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"Your hair type is 4C.","meaning":"Type 4C hair is so tightly coiled that it may not even look curly from a distance. It\u2019s the thickest hair type, with a mixture of tiny S and Z-shaped curl patterns that don\u2019t clump together naturally and densely packed strands.
Because 4C\u2019s coils are tightest, they\u2019re also very fragile. Take care not to comb your hair too roughly (or often), and use rich conditioners to keep it moisturized and healthy. Coconut oil and shea butter are both great for this\u2014and some people even prefer to leave out the shampoo entirely and rinse out their hair with only conditioner at times. Additionally, silk caps can really help keep this hair type from breaking while you sleep!- Best hair feature:<\/b> Tight, voluminous coils that have tons of body.
<\/li>- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It can be delicate and dry.
<\/li>- Pro tip:<\/b> Shampoo infrequently and deep condition your hair at least once per week to hydrate it.<\/li><\/ul>","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine","id":1362288,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine","image":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Start-a-Hair-Care-Routine-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Build the Perfect Hair Care Routine"},{"title":"How to Take Care of Natural Hair","id":561080,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair","image":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Take-Care-of-Natural-Hair-Step-17.jpg","alt":"How to Take Care of Natural Hair"}],"minimum":0}]" class="quiz_results_data"/>
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- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It can be delicate and dry.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It may lack moisture.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It\u2019s delicate and prone to breakage.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It\u2019s often prone to dryness and tangling (because of how tight the curls are).
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> Curls tend to get frizzy when brushed and are prone to dryness.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It\u2019s prone to dryness and sometimes lacks volume.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> Its texture can lead to excess frizz and dryness.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get very frizzy\u2014especially in humid weather.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It lacks volume compared to other hair types.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get oily faster than other hair types.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get oily faster than other hair types.
- Biggest challenge:<\/b> It tends to get oily faster than other hair types.
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An Overview of Hair Types
There are 4 general hair types: straight (type 1), wavy (type 2), curly (type 3), and coily (type 4). Each is then further divided into subtypes (1A, 1B, and so on) based on the hair’s specific pattern, coarseness, and the tightness or looseness of any curls or coils.
Type 1: Straight Type 1 hair is predominantly straight (and tends to look very sleek and shiny as a result). Because type 1 hair lacks curls and waves, natural oils flow from the scalp to the ends—which ensures that each strand gets enough nutrients but may also cause the hair to get oily faster than other types. Type 1 hair also appears to grow the fastest, but in reality, that’s because there’s no shrinkage (as opposed to curly or coily hair, which appears to “shrink” when it’s really just curling up). Straight hair is more difficult to style because it doesn’t hold curls or textures well.
Type 1 hair consists of:
- 1A: Fully straight hair that’s fine, wispy, and very sleek.
- 1B: Fully straight hair with some volume and thickness.
- 1C: Mostly straight hair with occasional bends or waves.
To care for type 1 hair:
- Use a hairbrush with natural bristles so you can carry your scalp’s natural oils along each strand.
- Use shampoo and hair masks to keep your hair from getting too oily.
- Use texturizing spray or dry shampoo before styling your hair, and apply hairspray to lock in styles.
Type 2: Wavy
Type 1 hair is wavy—with more waves and bends than type 1 hair but not as much curl as types 3 or 4 (which makes it fall somewhere between straight and curly). Most type 2 hair has S-shaped patterns, with each wave and curl getting more prominent the further it gets from the root. It’s also prone to frizzing, especially when exposed to humidity, and may even look different based on the weather. Overall, type 2 hair is thicker than type 1, with more bounce and volume.
Type 2 hair consists of:
- 2A: Toused, loose waves that are less defined and easy to style.
- 2B: Pronounced S-shaped waves that curl more as they get further from the scalp.
- 2C: Voluminous, well-defined S-shaped waves that are especially prone to frizz.
To care for type 2 hair:
- Squeeze-dry your hair with a soft t-shirt or hair towel (instead of rubbing it).
- Use a moisturizing, anti-frizz shampoo or leave-in treatment.
- Avoid touching your hair to prevent frizzing.
- Use lighter hair products like mousse to avoid weighing your hair down.
Type 3: Curly
Type 3 hair features curls with more volume and body than types 1 or 2. Strands are mostly curled, although some might be S-shaped. Type 3 hair has plenty of natural definition and some sheen; it usually lies flat when wet and curls up as it dries. It’s also more prone to dryness than previous types because your scalp’s natural oils can’t travel down individual strands easily, and it’s also more prone to heat and breakage—so all type 3 hair tends to need moisture in order to stay healthy.
Type 3 hair consists of:
- 3A: Loose, bouncy curls roughly the size of sidewalk chalk.
- 3B: Tight, dense ringlets roughly as wide as a marker.
- 3C: Dense, voluminous corkscrew curls around the size of a pencil.
To care for type 3 hair:
- Try not to heat-style your hair too often since it can damage your curls.
- Consider using heatless styles, or protective styles like buns and twist-outs to protect your hair.
- Use plenty of anti-frizz and moisturizing products in your daily haircare routine.
- Detangle your hair while it’s still wet to prevent frizz and give curls more definition.
Type 4: Coily
Coily hair features the tightest curls of all hair types. It’s heavily textured (e.g., tight coils, zig-zag patterns, etc.) and super dense, with lots of versatility in terms of styling! However, it needs lots of moisture to maintain, and it tangles easily because each strand of hair has so much texture. It also damages easily because, like type 3, it’s harder for natural oils to travel from the scalp to the ends of each strand—which is why type 4 hair needs to be nourished and cared for without being washed too frequently!
Type 4 hair consists of:
- 4A: Defined S-shaped coils roughly the size of a chopstick.
- 4B: Tight, Z-shaped coils with less definition than 4A hair.
- 4C: Sharp, extremely small Z-shaped strands with the least definition.
To care for type 4 hair:
- Moisturize your hair often to keep it from getting dry.
- Consider using twists or braids to keep your hair out of your face.
- Try a protective style like crochet braids or box braids, especially for 4B or 4C.
- Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner daily to lock in moisture between washes.
Pro tip: When determining your hair type, you can also consider things like how much hair you have, how well your hair holds onto moisture, and whether your hair is fine, medium, or coarse. Remember: it's totally normal to have a mix of different hair types and patterns!
Want to learn more?
For more information about hair types and textures, check out the following resources:
Reader Success Stories
- "It made me think deeper about my hair. I will take the quiz again after observing my hair for a week."
