Do You Know The Different Black Hair Types?

There are three main types of black hair; wavy, curly and kinky. I’m a coily type 4a. What are you?

Don’t waste your time and money on hair products and tools that won’t work for you. Take a minute to figure out which one of the unique black hair types you have and let that guide you to the products, tools and techniques that work best for your hair.

Look at the characteristics of each hair type to figure out which one you have.

Remember, this is for your hair in its natural state, so if you’re relaxed look at your new growth to decide.

Type 2 - Wavy Hair

Characteristics

Also known as type 2 hair, wavy hair commonly has these features.

• Soft or deep waves and little to no curl.
• Coarse and stays close to the scalp in long "s" shaped curves.
• Doesn't usually have a lot of body.

• Invest in a good boar bristle brush to keep your waves smooth.
• Use a light moisturizing hair gel to add definition to your waves.
• Deep condition regularly and use a moisturizing leave-in.

Type 3 - Curly Hair

Characteristics

Also known as type 3 hair, curly hair has a unique texture.

• Fine and soft "q" shaped pattern.
• Doesn't have a lot of sheen.
• Has lots of body.
• Straightens when wet and curls as it dries.

• Only use wide tooth combs. The wider the better.
• Use deep conditioner every time you shampoo.
• Use leave-In conditioner daily.
• To reduce frizz don’t brush your hair.
• Don’t use towels to dry your hair. Air dry or blow dry on medium with a diffuser attachment instead.

Type 4 - Coily / Kinky Hair

Characteristics

Also known as type 4 hair, it’s the most highly textured of all the black hair types.

• Very tightly curled and wiry.
• Driest of all the types.
• 4a hair has a looser 'coil'. Strands have a spiral shape.
• 4b hair has a tighter 'kink'. Strands have a zig-zag shape like the letter "z".
• Most fragile of the types.

• Comb and detangle your hair when it's wet and coated with conditioner.
• Always use a wide tooth comb, your fingers or a hair pick to detangle.
• Deep condition your hair with protein and moisture to keep your it healthy and strong.
• Use a daily moisturizing leave-in.