How to work out your hair type?

When you think about different varieties of hair, the first thing that undoubtedly comes to mind is the most basic hair words – straight or curly. However, did you know that there are up to 12 different varieties of hair, the various characteristics of our varied hair types necessitate different hair care routines in order to bring out our hair’s full potential. Furthermore, understanding your hair type is only half the battle. It is also critical to understand how the correct hair products can assist you in achieving the ideal hair care routine. Because not every product is suitable for all hair types, precisely recognising your hair type is essential for selecting the optimal hair care regimen for you. Read to learn How to work out your hair type.

Texture of Hair

Hair texture is the natural shape or pattern of your hair strands. Straight hair dries without a bend, wavy hair has a small curve, and curly hair forms distinct curls or loops. Coily hair has dense spirals and zig-zag patterns. Each hair type requires specific care. People with natural waves may have different hair types based on their curl patterns. Understanding your hair texture helps in choosing the right products and care routine.

Structure of the Hair

When we talk about hair structure, we’re especially referring to the thickness of the strands, which might affect how well your locks retain different haircuts and react to different hair products. Your hair can be classified into three types: fine, medium, and coarse (or thick).

12 Different Hair Types

You only need a mirror. Place your finger on the most obvious feature of your hair (straight, wavy, curly, or coiled/kinky), then move your finger down to the secondary features in the rows beneath.

When you think of the different types of hair, the first thing that probably pops into your mind would be the simplest hair terms — either straight or curly. However, did you know that there are up to 12 hair types? The different characteristics of our individual hair types call for different hair care routines to bring out our hair’s fullest (and shiniest) potential.

In addition, learning your hair type is only half the battle. It is also just as important to understand how the right hair products can help you to achieve the best hair care routine. Not every product will work for every hair type, so correctly identifying your hair type is key to determining the best care routine for your hair.

Curl Patterns of Different Hair Types

(Type 1) Straight hair:

Straight hair is hair that is flat or straight on the scalp. Type 1 hairs have the highest sheen because the natural oils in the hair may move from the scalp to the ends. Straight hair is classified into three types:

Type 1A:

hair is extremely straight and fine, with no wave or curl. Because it is so straight and delicate, when natural oils go to the ends, it tends to look oily. It is the most uncommon hair type and is most common among Asian women.

Type 1B:

hair has more volume than Type 1A hair. Its medium texture can often keep curls, adding texture and movement to the hair.

Type 1C:

hair is straight, coarse, and thick, and can become frizzy depending on the environment or climate. This hair type can create a dishevelled look while still lying flat on the scalp when air-dried.

(Type 2) Wavy Hair:

Wavy hair is naturally wavy and has a “S” shape. It is thicker than Type 1 hair and can be classified as a cross between straight and curly hair. It is not as oily as Type 1 due to its subtle texture and form.

Type 2A:

hair is fine and thin, when dried, with individual strands forming an “S” shape. Curling or straightening Type 2A hair is simple using style products.

Type 2B:

hair is slightly wavy and frizzier than Type 2A hair. Individual strands dry into an “S” shape with some frizz.

Type 2C:

hair waves are thicker and start from the scalp than other Type 2 subcategories. When dried, this coarse hair type produces an “S” shape and is the most prone to frizz.

(Type 3) Curly Hair:

Curly hair is naturally curly and is classed as spiral curls. Type 3 hairs have naturally defined ringlets and are more prone to dryness, knots, frizz, and breakage. This hair type is dry because the follicle does not lay flat.

Type 3A:

hair is fine and lustrous, with loose curls. This type of curly thick hair is easily defined and prone to little frizzy.

Type 3B:

Curls hair are medium to tight lively curls. It frizzes easily, just like Type 3A.

Type 3C:

Curls in hair are tight and dense. This hair type’s curls are usually quite textured.

(Type 4) Coiled/Kinky Hair:

African Americans are more likely to have type 4 hair. Coiled or kinky hair (Type 4) is tightly curled with definite ringlets (coils) and retains its hair shape whether wet or dry. This hair type has a coarse texture and is easily damaged by heated hair style tools.

Type 4A:

hair is frequently in tight, elastic coils. When dry, hair strands of this type often shrink to half their original length. This hair type has the most distinct curl pattern of the Type 4 hair category.

Type 4B:

Tight curls in a Z coil (crimpy) pattern characterise hair. Although less pronounced than Type 4A curls, Type 4C hair is clearer.

Type 4C:

Hair is thickly packed and coarse. This hair type’s curl pattern is not defined and has a lot of shrinkage.

Tips:

• Regularly wash your hair.
• Make Use of Natural Hair Products
• Use products to keep your style intact
• Stop sleeping with wet hair.
• Hydration is essential.
• Avoid using heat styling tools.
• Thoroughly moisturise your hair.
• Correct Hair Drying

Following these hair tests, you may learn that your hair is a hybrid of multiple types, such as curly but highly porous or fine but exceedingly dry. In any case, having a full understanding of hair type charts will help you make better and easier hair care decisions to keep your strands looking and feeling their best.

How to determine your hair type and care for it