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The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Curly Hair
Curly hair is beautiful, unique, and full of personality. While it might seem like a challenge to manage those luscious curls, with the right care and products, maintaining gorgeous curly hair can be a breeze. At The Abode Salon in New London, we specialize in all types of hair textures, and we're here to share our top tips and tricks with you.
Understanding Curly Hair Types
Not all curls are created equal, and understanding your curl pattern is the first step to proper care. Curly hair types range from loose waves to tight coils, typically classified from 2A to 4C:
Type 2 (Wavy Hair): Soft, S-shaped waves with minimal curl.
Type 3 (Curly Hair): Spiraled curls that can range from loose loops to tight ringlets.
Type 4 (Coily Hair): Tight, densely packed curls or kinks.
Each curl type has unique needs, and recognizing your curl pattern helps in selecting the right products and techniques.
Here's How to Figure Out What Type of Curls You Have
When talking about hair that isn't straight, people and brands tend to lump curly hair into its own big category, assuming that all coils, kinks, curls, and waves can have a one-size-fits-all approach. But anyone with a curl type knows this is far from true—it's a lot of work to identify your curls and develop a routine that actually works.
So, how do you identify your curl type? Hairstylist Andre Walker started a curl typing system, which is still used today and provides a way to label hair types based on texture. It utilizes numbers 1 to 4, with one being straight hair and four being kinky texture, along with subcategories from A to C. A has the widest diameter or pattern size, and C has the smallest. For example, 1A is flat as a pin and defined by a very thin texture that can only hold a curl by using styling tools like a curling iron.
It's a lot to think about and remember when you're shopping for products, looking for new ingredients, and trying to style them, so we asked professional hairstylists to break down the different types of curls, so you can easily ID your curls, shop better, and style smarter.
Curl Pattern Types
Curly hair is a term used generically to describe textured hair—from loose waves to Z-shaped coils. But to truly determine your curl type, you have to start with your scalp and look at how the hair follicles grow. Curly hair follicles are asymmetrical, creating the shape responsible for a curly strand of hair. In straight hair the hair grows evenly from the straight follicle in a round shape.
The best time to examine your follicles is when the hair is wet since water weighs down the hair, altering how it looks compared to dry strands. It's important to remember that most people don't fall into a single curl category and actually have multiple patterns on their hair.
Now that we've reviewed the curly hair basics, it's time to dive into specifics. Reference the curl type chart below, then keep reading for a detailed description of each curl type and what type of products to look for.
Curl Pattern Types
Type 2
Type 2 hair ranges from fine to coarse, and includes anything from tousled texture to subtle curls. The curls hold their shape but can still easily deflate or be straightened.
2A: Fine, tousled texture, easy to smooth out using a hair straightener, and lacks volume at the root while slightly curling toward the ends. A light mousse or serums help plump and give volume to this hair type.
2B: Flatter crown with more defined S-shape waves starting from the midlength and thicker strands than 2A. Try a sea salt texture spray for enhancing the natural texture.
2C: Thick texture, more likely to experience frizzing, with the S-bend starting right from the root and very well-defined. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep it moisturized.
Type 3
Type 3 hair ranges from loopy S-pattern curls to tight ringlets.
3A: Large loose curls, fragile hair. Apply a curl cream with defrizzing and moisture properties when damp to maintain moisture and reduce frizz.
3B: Springy, coarse ringlets prone to dryness. Products containing humectants work well to attract moisture to hair strands.
3C: Tight corkscrew curls densely packed together with natural volume. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and layer mousse and styling creams into wet hair.
Type 4
Type 4 hair has tight, small, kinky curls that are naturally dry, and the texture can range from fine to coarse.
4A: Visible curl pattern with springy S-shaped coils that are densely packed. Use a curl cream and leave-in conditioner with moisturizing ingredients.
4B: Densely packed strands with sharp Z-shaped angles instead of coils. Use gentle cleansing conditioners and moisture sprays.
4C: Tight zigzag pattern prone to shrinkage. Stay away from sulfates and look for natural oils like argan, shea butter, and coconut oil.
Proper Hair Care Routine for Curly Hair
A consistent hair care routine can make all the difference for curly hair. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you maintain beautiful curls:
Washing: Wash your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Focus on the scalp to remove buildup, and let the suds cleanse the rest of your hair as you rinse.
Conditioning: Apply a generous amount of conditioner, focusing on the ends. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair while it's still wet.
Deep Conditioning: Once a week, treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment. Olaplex No. 3 is an excellent choice for repairing damage and enhancing curl strength.
Drying: Avoid towel drying, which can cause frizz. Instead, use a technique called "plopping." After washing, gently scrunch your hair with a microfiber towel or a T-shirt, then wrap your hair in the fabric and let it dry naturally.
Styling: Apply a leave-in conditioner and styling products to wet hair. For best results, air dry your hair or use a diffuser on a low heat setting.
Styling Tips for Curly Hair
Styling curly hair can be fun and creative. Here are some tips to keep your curls looking their best:
Air Drying: Air drying is the gentlest method for curly hair. Apply your styling products and let your hair dry naturally for defined, frizz-free curls.
Diffusing: If you're short on time, use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer. Set it to low heat and low speed to prevent frizz.
Curl Definition: For extra curl definition, scrunch your hair with a curl cream or gel while it's still wet. Ouidad's Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel is perfect for this.
Plopping: Plopping helps enhance your natural curl pattern and reduces drying time. Simply wrap your wet hair in a microfiber towel or T-shirt and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes.
Transitioning from Straight Hair to Curly Hair
If you've been straightening your curly hair and want to embrace your natural curls, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to transition smoothly:
Stop Heat Styling: Give your hair a break from heat tools to allow your natural curls to recover.
Hydrate: Keep your hair moisturized with deep conditioning treatments and hydrating products.
Trim Regularly: Regular trims help remove damaged ends and promote healthy growth.
Be Patient: Transitioning takes time. Be gentle with your hair and give it the care it needs to bounce back.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Curly hair requires special attention, and it's easy to make mistakes that can lead to frizz and damage. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Over-Washing: Washing too frequently can strip your hair of its natural oils. Stick to washing your hair once or twice a week.
Using the Wrong Products: Not all hair products are suitable for curly hair. Avoid products with sulfates and alcohol, as they can dry out your curls.
Skipping Conditioner: Curly hair needs extra moisture. Always condition your hair after shampooing.
Conclusion
Curly hair is a beautiful and versatile hair type that, with the right care, can be easy to manage. At The Abode Salon in New London, we specialize in all types of hair textures and are dedicated to helping you achieve your best curls. Whether you need a trim, a new style, or recommendations for the best products, our team of experts is here to help.
Ready to embrace your natural curls? Book an appointment with The Abode Salon today and let our experienced stylists guide you on your curly hair journey. Visit us in New London and discover the secret to gorgeous, healthy curls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Curly Hair So Attractive?
Curly hair is often considered attractive because it exudes personality and uniqueness. The natural volume and movement of curls can create a lively and dynamic appearance, drawing attention and admiration. Curly hair also adds a touch of playfulness and can frame the face beautifully, enhancing one's features. Additionally, curls reflect light differently than straight hair, creating a natural shine and depth. The versatility of curly hair, which can be styled in numerous ways, further contributes to its appeal. Many people find the distinctive and individualistic nature of curly hair to be a captivating trait, making it a celebrated and desirable hair type.
What Helps Your Hair Get Curly?
Several factors can help enhance and define your natural curls. Genetics play a crucial role, as the shape of hair follicles determines curl patterns. Proper hair care is essential: using sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing conditioners helps maintain hair health. Deep conditioning treatments, like those from Ouidad or Olaplex, can repair and strengthen curls. Techniques like plopping and diffusing on low heat also promote curl formation. Avoiding heat styling tools and chemical treatments that straighten hair will allow your natural curls to thrive. Lastly, using styling products specifically designed for curly hair, such as curl creams and gels, can enhance and define your curls beautifully.
Is Curly Hair a Dominant or Recessive Gene?
Curly hair is influenced by genetics and can be considered a dominant trait. The gene responsible for curly hair is often expressed when passed down from one or both parents. In contrast, straight hair is typically a recessive trait. However, the inheritance of hair texture is complex and can be influenced by multiple genes, leading to various curl patterns and hair types within the same family. This complexity means that while curly hair tends to be dominant, other genetic factors can modify its expression, resulting in a wide range of hair textures from wavy to tightly coiled curls.
What is Considered Curly Hair?
Curly hair encompasses a range of hair types characterized by waves, curls, or coils. It's classified into several categories: Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily). Type 2 hair features loose, S-shaped waves, while Type 3 hair includes more defined, spiral curls ranging from loose loops to tight ringlets. Type 4 hair is distinguished by tight, densely packed coils or kinks. The key characteristic of curly hair is its natural texture and pattern, which differs from straight hair due to the oval or asymmetrical shape of hair follicles. This unique structure gives curly hair its distinctive and beautiful appearance.
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