Hair is extremely diverse in texture and curl pattern and each has its own particular requirements. Knowing your curl type is the secret to finding the best products and routine to optimally bring out the best in your own natural curl and look after healthy hair. This guide covers the central curl types and GK Hair products, to help you care for your curls with confidence.
The Major Curl Types and How to Identify Them
The hair curl types are usually divided into four and identified using the numbers from 1 to 4 with a to c to describe the tightness of curls:
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Type 1: Straight hair
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Type 2: Wavy hair
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Type 3: Curly hair
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Type 4: Coily hair
To know your curl type, just wash your hair and let it air dry without putting anything on it. Observe your hair’s natural pattern when it’s about 80% dry:
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Look for the shape your hair strands form-are they loose waves, spiral curls, or tight coils?
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Examine the curl diameter by wrapping a strand around your finger or a pencil.
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Notice the amount of shrinkage (how much your hair shortens when dry compared to wet).
Remember, it’s common to have more than one curl type on your head, so focus on the predominant pattern.
Type 1: Straight Hair
Although straight hair is not curly, It marks the starting point on the hair texture scale. Straight hair will get oily and heavy quickly and would typically do best under light shampoos and conditioners that add volume without any residue.
Type 2: Wavy Hair (2A, 2B, and 2C)
2A hair is wavy and defined by loose S-shape strands with a fine and lightweight texture. In 2C hair, the hair is more refined and voluminous. This hair is prone to frizz and can lose curl definition if it is not treated with the right products.
2A: Loose waves needing minimal product; a light leave-in conditioner is optimum.
2B: More defined waves, often with some frizz; a curl-enhancing cream helps shape waves.
2C: Thicker waves on the verge of curls; turn to hydrating creams and anti-frizz serums.
Pro Tip: Use GK Hair Leave-In Conditioner Spray on wavy hair to gently moisturize and smooth out frizz without flattening waves. This product is infused with Juvexin, a keratin based protein that smooths hair, provides shine and enhances natural wave form.
Type 3: Curly Hair (3A, 3B, and 3C)
Curly hair forms sharp spirals or ringlets and tends to be drier than wavy or straight hair, as oil will have a difficult time moving all the way down through the curls.
3A: Loose curls with a circumference around the size of sidewalk chalk; needs moisture and light hold.
Read more on How to Maximize Volume and Definition for 3A Hair here.
3B: Tightly wound spring curls with volume added; richer moisturization and more manageability are desired.
3C: Dense and coarser tight curls; will respond best to deep moisturization and curl definition.
Pro tip: Apply GK Hair Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner to hydrate and condition curls internally. Use GK Hair CurlsDefineHer to define the shape of curls without adding weight. Top it all by applying GK Hair Argan Serum Oil to add shine and control frizz.
Type 4: Coily Hair (4A, 4B, and 4C)
Coily hair typically contains tightly curved curls and zigzag textures. The most fragile and prone to drying out and shrinking of all hair textures, it requires robust moisture and gentle care.
4A: Tightly coiled and S-shaped when visible; less likely to tangle compared to other type 4 hair but needing lots of moisture.
4B: Z-shaped curls that bend sharply; hair is drier and more prone to breakage.
4C: The curls are densely packed and usually have no definable curl pattern; this requires rich moisturizing and protective styling.
Pro tip: Use GK Hair Deep Conditioner to deep condition to bring moisture back to hair and keep it flexible. Gently wash and hydrate with GK Hair Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner. Use GK Hair CurlsDefineHer daily when styling and seal with a finishing touch of GK Hair Argan Serum Oil to maintain moisture and curl definition.
Creating Your Curl Care Routine
Irrespective of the curl type, healthy curls begin with moisturized hair. Here is an effortless routine using products in our line to match your curl type:
Clean: Use a mild, sulfate free shampoo to remove buildup without stripping the natural oils. Use GK Hair Moisturizing Shampoo. After shampooing, condition with a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture and have the detangling process become a simple process. Use GK Hair Leave-In Conditioner Spray to enjoy silky, manageable curls.
Define: Use a curl cream like GK Hair CurlsDefineHer Cream to enhance your natural pattern and reduce frizz without heaviness.
Deep Treat: Give your hair a weekly treat using a deep conditioning masque. Use GK Hair Deep Conditioner to revive your hair's elasticity and shine. For added shine and to tame frizz, apply a small amount of GK Hair Argan Hair Serum to your curls.
Hair Care Tips for All Curly Hair Types
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Don't wash Curly hair too often to retain the natural oils that promote hair health.
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Use either a microfiber towel or old cotton t-shirts to dry your hair carefully.
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Sleep on a pillowcase made of silk or satin to reduce frizz and breakage.
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Regular trims assist with curl shape retention and eliminate split ends.
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Shield hair from the harmful rays of the sun and environmental damage using UV-filtering product or head coverings outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Learning to identify your curl type makes it simple to make informed hair care decisions. Based on the looseness or tightness of your curls, GK Hair Products are specifically designed to moisturize, hydrate, and enhance the best qualities for any curl type. Learn to appreciate the natural texture of your hair and pamper it with the right knowledge and products, and your curls shall thank you with every bounce and sparkle.
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