Decoding the Curly Hair Chart.
If you're navigating the world of curly hair, you might have heard about the infamous curl typing system created by the renowned hairstylist Andre Walker. Now, this system has sparked some debate in the curly community. Some say it's divisive, while others find it incredibly useful. Let's break it down in a way that works for you.
What's Your Curl Type?
Your curl type boils down to the shape of the follicles that your hair sprouts from on your scalp. Follicles with a flatter or more oval shape produce curlier hair, while those with a circular cross-section create straighter hair. Additionally, the pattern your hair strands make - whether they kink, curve, or form spirals - determines your curl pattern.
So, here's the simplified version: Type 1s have straight hair, Type 2s are wavy, Type 3s are curly, and Type 4s are coily. Nice and easy, right?
But there is more. You've got sub-classifications, A to C, based on the width or diameter of your waves, curls, or coils. Type As have a wider pattern, Type Bs are medium, and Type Cs are the smallest. Why does this matter? Understanding your curl type helps you take better care of your hair and lets you explore your hair's versatility.
Type 2: The Waves
If you're in the Type 2 camp, your hair is bendable and can range from fine to coarse. You have a clear S pattern that's relatively close to your head.
2A: This hair is fine and barely there, almost like a gentle tousle. It's a dream to straighten, but be cautious with heavy styling products, as they can weigh it down.
2B: These waves are slightly thicker and start lying flatter at the crown. You'll need a bit more effort to straighten them.
2C: This is where things get thicker, and frizz might make an appearance. Well-defined S-bends start at the roots. Use sulphate-free co-wash to keep your hair moisturised and healthy.
Type 3: The Curlies
Type 3 hair rocks a wide spectrum of curls, from loose, buoyant loops to tight, springy corkscrews. Shine, shine, and more shine.
3A: Expect shiny, large, loose curls about the size of a piece of sidewalk chalk. Avoid frizz by scrunching in your choice of curl cream.
3B: Springy ringlets with a circumference similar to that of a Sharpie marker. This hair can get dry, so hydrate with curl gels containing humectants.
3C: Tight corkscrews range from straw to pencil-sized. It's all about volume, but it's also prone to frizz. Use sulfate-free, creamy cleansers to maintain moisture.
Type 4: The Coils
Type 4 hair is dense with S-patterned coils. There's a huge variety here, and they're around the size of a crochet needle.
4A: Dense, springy, S-patterned coils. Soft, pliable strands are the goal. Use a curl cream and leave-in moisturizer combo.
4B: Tightly packed strands that can bend in sharp angles like the letter Z. Shape it the way you like with a hydrating primer and a non-aerosol spray.
4C: Similar to 4B, but with very tight zig-zag patterns. This texture is highly versatile but experiences the most shrinkage. Use a generous amount of leave-in moisturizer to combat shrinkage and dryness.
Understanding your curl type is all about embracing your unique hair and learning how to care for it in the best way. Now that you're armed with this knowledge, you can curate a hair care routine that caters to your specific curl type, keeping your locks healthy and fabulous.
