Curly hair varieties offering volume and bouncy appearance
In the world of hair, understanding your hair type is crucial for maintaining its health and style. Three primary hair types are particularly significant in East Asia, Europe, and Sub-Saharan Africa, respectively: Asian-type short hair, European-type short hair, and African-type short hair.
Asian-Type Short Hair
Characterised by straight or wavy hair, this type is common in East Asian populations. For those with curly Asian-type short hair, Type 3 curls form springy ringlets with a clear shape and tons of volume. Type 3A curly hair has large, loopy curls, while Type 3B curls are tighter with more volume. Type 3C curly hair features tight corkscrews that may appear dense.
To care for Asian-type curly hair, it's recommended to use curl cream or leave-in conditioner to provide moisture and fight frizz. Co-washing (cleansing with conditioner instead of shampoo) can also help maintain essential moisture. It's best to avoid combing dry hair to preserve the curl pattern.
European-Type Short Hair
European-type short hair is typically straight or wavy, with Type 2 hair being the most common. Type 2 wavy hair has a loose "S" shape along the hair shaft, often described as beachy waves. Type 2A wavy hair is fine and thin with a slight wave, while Type 2C wavy hair is thick, coarse, and prone to frizz. For Type 2 wavy hair, it is recommended to use weightless hydration products and avoid heavy creams.
African-Type Short Hair
African-type short hair is the tightest curl type and includes coily and kinky hair textures. Type 4 hair is divided into four subtypes. Type 4A hair features soft, springy coils with an "S" pattern. Type 4B hair has sharp angles and tighter curls in a "Z" shape. The 4C hair type consists of very tight coils with less defined pattern. These tightly coiled curls often look like small curls or zigzags. They're packed with natural bounce but also tend to experience major shrinkage when dry.
For Type 4 hair, it's best to apply curl cream to damp hair for natural bounce and use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep the scalp's natural oils balanced without drying out hair strands. It's also recommended to start styling with wet hair for even product application.
General Hair Care Tips
Regardless of your hair type, it's essential to avoid combing dry hair to preserve the curl pattern. A crochet needle should only be used for specific styles like faux locs. Thick hair may need stronger hold in some areas, while fine hair benefits from lightweight stylers. For all hair types, it's recommended to enhance volume with diffusing or plopping techniques.
People with multiple hair types on the same head should tailor their products and technique to each section to ensure the best results. Remember, understanding your hair type is the first step towards maintaining healthy, beautiful hair!
