Curly Hair Types: A Complete Guide to Understanding Your Curls

Curly hair is unique, beautiful, and sometimes a little unpredictable. Knowing your curl type can make all the difference when it comes to styling, choosing the right products, and keeping your hair healthy. 

Whether your hair forms loose waves, defined spirals, or tight coils, understanding your curl pattern is the first step to embracing its natural beauty.

What determines your curl type?

Your curl type is determined by the shape of your hair follicle. The more oval or asymmetrical the follicle, the curlier your hair will be. Straight hair comes from round follicles, while curls form when follicles flatten or twist.

But that’s not the whole story. Other factors like genetics, hair porosity, and moisture retention also play a role in how your curls behave. That’s why some people have a mix of curl patterns on different parts of their head.

Another thing to consider is how your hair reacts when wet. Curls often appear looser when drenched and tighten as they dry. This can help you figure out your true curl pattern. The best time to identify your curl type is after washing, with no product applied.

Heat damage, haircuts, and even weather changes can temporarily alter your curl pattern. If your curls aren’t behaving the way they used to, it might be time to check your routine.

Curly hair types

Curly hair comes in three main categories: wavy, curly, and coily. Each type has subcategories (A, B, and C) that describe how loose or tight the pattern is.

• Type 1: Straight hair – Naturally straight with no visible curl or wave.
• Type 2: Wavy hair – Falls between straight and curly, with soft bends or more defined waves.
• Type 3: Curly hair – Forms spirals or ringlets, ranging from loose curls to tighter coils.
• Type 4: Coily/kinky hair – The tightest curl pattern, with either small, springy curls or a zig-zag shape.

The A, B, and C subcategories further define how tight or loose the texture is:

• A – Looser pattern: Soft and stretched out, with less volume and a tendency to lose definition.
• B – Medium pattern: More defined and bouncy, with moderate volume and some frizz potential.
• C – Tightest pattern: The most compact and coiled, prone to shrinkage and needing the most moisture.

Type 2A

Type 2A is the loosest of the wavy hair types, often sitting between straight and wavy. The waves are soft, subtle, and lightweight, forming a slight “S” shape toward the mid-lengths and ends. If your hair tends to dry straight at the roots but has a gentle wave toward the bottom, it likely falls into this category.

Since Type 2A hair is fine in texture, it tends to lack volume at the roots and can get oily quickly. It’s also easily weighed down by heavy products, making it lose definition. While this hair type is easy to straighten and style, it can struggle to hold curls throughout the day.

Common concerns:

• Waves tend to flatten quickly
• Oily roots and dry ends make it tricky to balance hydration
• Easily weighed down by heavy products
• Struggles to hold curls from heat styling

How to style Type 2A

The best way to bring out Type 2A waves is to use lightweight products that add texture and volume without making hair greasy.

After washing, apply a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray to damp hair. Work it through the mid-lengths and ends, then gently scrunch to encourage the wave pattern. Let it air dry for a natural look, or use a diffuser on low heat to add lift and texture.

If you want to create more definition, twist small sections of damp hair around your fingers and let them dry naturally. Avoid using thick creams or oils, as they can make waves disappear within hours.

Best way to maintain Type 2A

Since this hair type tends to get oily at the roots and dry at the ends, a balanced routine is key.

• Wash every 2-3 days with a lightweight, sulfate-free shampoo to prevent buildup.
• Condition only the ends to avoid making the roots greasy.
• Use dry shampoo in between washes to add volume and absorb oil.
• Sleep with your hair in a loose bun or braid to maintain waves overnight.
• Avoid heavy styling creams—opt for light mousses or texturizing sprays instead.

Type 2B

Type 2B has more defined waves that start closer to the scalp. The "S" shape is more noticeable, giving the hair a natural, tousled look. If you have waves that tend to frizz up in humidity, you’re likely in the 2B category.

This hair type is thicker than 2A and holds waves better, but it can still struggle with flatness at the roots. It’s also prone to frizz, making it harder to maintain smooth, well-defined waves throughout the day.

Common concerns:

• Frizz and flyaways are common, especially in humid weather
• Waves can lose definition over time
• Tangles easily and can be difficult to brush
• Can get dry at the ends but oily at the roots

How to style Type 2B

Frizz control is the biggest challenge with Type 2B, so the right styling products can make a huge difference.

Apply a light curl-enhancing mousse or styling cream while your hair is damp. Scrunch your hair gently and let it air dry or use a diffuser on low heat for added volume. To reduce frizz, use a microfiber towel instead of a regular towel when drying.

For extra definition, consider twisting small sections of damp hair and letting them dry naturally. A small amount of anti-frizz serum can be applied to the ends once dry, but avoid overdoing it, as too much product can weigh your hair down.

Best way to maintain Type 2B

Since this hair type is more prone to dryness and frizz, hydration and frizz control should be a priority.

• Wash every 2-4 days with a hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo to maintain moisture.
• Use a moisturising conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends to prevent dryness.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl-refreshing spray on non-wash days.
• Avoid brushing your hair dry—use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair to prevent frizz.
• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and flyaways.

Type 2C

Type 2C has deep, well-defined waves that start at the roots. It’s the thickest and most textured of the wavy hair types, often behaving more like curly hair than wavy. If your hair tends to get poofy or even slightly curly in humidity, you likely have Type 2C.

Because of its coarser texture, 2C hair holds styles well but is also more prone to dryness and tangling. It can be resistant to heat styling, making it harder to straighten, and tends to frizz up easily if not properly moisturised.

Common concerns:

• Frizz and dryness are the biggest challenges
• Can be hard to detangle, especially at the ends
• Shrinks slightly when dry, making hair appear shorter
• More resistant to heat styling and straightening

How to style Type 2C

Since Type 2C leans closer to curly hair, moisture is key. Using a moisturising curl cream or lightweight gel while the hair is damp will help define the wave pattern and prevent frizz.

Scrunch your hair with your hands after applying product, then let it air dry or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to enhance definition. If your hair tends to puff up, a small amount of lightweight oil applied to the ends can help smooth things out.

To create a more stretched look, try gently twisting or braiding damp hair and letting it dry naturally. This will help loosen the wave pattern while keeping it defined.

Best way to maintain Type 2C

Because this hair type is thicker and more textured, it needs more moisture than 2A and 2B to stay manageable.

• Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturising conditioner to prevent dryness.
• Deep condition once a week to maintain hydration and control frizz.
• Detangle using a wide-tooth comb on wet hair with conditioner to prevent breakage.
• Avoid over-washing—every 3-5 days is usually enough.
• Refresh waves with a spray bottle of water mixed with leave-in conditioner on non-wash days.

Type 3A

Type 3A hair is defined, loose curls about the size of sidewalk chalk. These curls are naturally soft, shiny, and bouncy, giving hair a voluminous yet lightweight look. 

Unlike wavy hair, 3A curls hold their shape well without much styling but can still be prone to frizz and uneven curl patterns.

This curl type is easy to manage compared to tighter curl types, but it can become stretched out, frizzy, or weighed down if too much product is used. It also reacts to humidity, sometimes making the curls appear looser or puffier.

Common concerns:

• Curls can lose definition if brushed or over-handled
• Prone to frizz, especially in humid conditions
• Can be weighed down easily by thick creams or heavy oils
• Some areas of hair may be curlier than others, leading to uneven curl patterns

How to style Type 3A

Since Type 3A curls are naturally defined, styling should focus on enhancing shape without weighing them down.

After washing, apply a light curl cream or mousse to damp hair. Use the rake and scrunch method—rake the product through with your fingers, then scrunch gently to define curls. For extra hold, scrunch in a light gel and let hair air dry.

To add volume, use a diffuser on low heat, flipping your head upside down to lift the roots. On non-wash days, refresh curls with a mist of water and leave-in conditioner to revive definition. Avoid excessive touching to prevent frizz.

Best way to maintain Type 3A

Because this curl type is softer and looser, it requires light moisture and gentle handling to maintain its shape.

• Wash every 2-3 days with a sulfate-free, curl-friendly shampoo to maintain bounce.
• Use a lightweight conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends to avoid buildup.
• Detangle with a wide-tooth comb or fingers while hair is wet and coated in conditioner.
• Avoid heavy styling creams—opt for mousses or lightweight curl creams instead.
• Sleep with curls in a loose pineapple or use a satin bonnet to prevent flattening overnight.

Type 3B

Type 3B curls are tighter, springier, and more voluminous than 3A. The curl diameter is similar to a Sharpie marker, and the texture is coarser, drier, and more prone to shrinkage. 

This curl type holds its shape well but needs regular moisture to prevent frizz and maintain definition.

Because of its high density and tight curl pattern, 3B hair can tangle easily and needs more hydration than looser curls. It also has more shrinkage than 3A, meaning hair may appear much shorter when dry.

Common concerns:

• More prone to dryness and frizz than looser curls
• Shrinkage makes hair appear shorter than it actually is
• Can tangle easily, especially at the ends
• Needs regular hydration to prevent brittle or rough texture

How to style Type 3B

Since Type 3B curls need extra moisture, styling should focus on hydration and definition.

Apply a rich curl cream or leave-in conditioner to damp hair, smoothing it over with the praying hands method. Follow up with a medium-hold gel to enhance curl shape and reduce frizz.

Scrunch gently, then air dry or diffuse on low heat for volume. To minimize shrinkage, stretch curls slightly while diffusing. Once dry, apply a few drops of lightweight oil to the ends for added hydration and shine. Avoid over-touching to prevent frizz.

Best way to maintain Type 3B

Since this hair type dries out faster, regular moisture is key to keeping curls soft and defined.

• Wash every 2-4 days with a moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoo to prevent dryness.
• Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to restore hydration.
• Detangle with a wide-tooth comb on wet, conditioned hair to avoid breakage.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner daily to maintain moisture and prevent frizz.
• Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to retain moisture and protect curls overnight.

Type 3C

Type 3C hair has tight, densely packed curls that resemble corkscrews or ringlets. These curls are smaller in diameter than 3B, roughly the size of a pencil, and have a lot of natural volume.

This curl type has the most shrinkage of all Type 3 curls, meaning hair can look much shorter than it actually is. It’s also the most prone to dryness, requiring consistent moisture and protection to maintain softness and prevent breakage.

Common concerns:

• Extreme shrinkage, making hair appear shorter than it is
• Highly prone to dryness and frizz
• Can become tangled and matted without proper care
• Needs regular hydration to maintain curl shape and elasticity

How to style Type 3C

Since Type 3C curls are tightly coiled and voluminous, styling should focus on hydration, definition, and shrinkage control.

Apply a rich leave-in conditioner or curl cream to damp hair, distributing it evenly with your fingers. Follow up with a strong-hold gel or mousse for definition and frizz control.

To reduce shrinkage, try the banding method or twist-outs while drying. Use a diffuser on low heat with a hover technique for volume. Refresh curls during the day with a light mist of water-based curl refresher, scrunching gently to revive shape.

Best way to maintain Type 3C

Because this curl type loses moisture quickly, deep conditioning and hydration should be regular parts of your routine.

• Wash every 3-5 days using a hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo to prevent excessive dryness.
• Deep condition at least once a week to restore lost moisture and soften curls.
• Detangle gently using a wide-tooth comb or fingers while hair is coated in conditioner.
• Use the LOC (leave-in, oil, cream) method to lock in moisture and prevent frizz.
• Avoid over-manipulating curls—protective styles like braids or twists can help reduce breakage.

Type 4A

Type 4A hair has tight, springy coils that form a well-defined "O" shape. The curl diameter is about the size of a crochet needle, making it smaller and tighter than 3C curls but still well-defined. This hair type is naturally soft, full of volume, and has a visible curl pattern, even when dry.

Unlike looser curls, Type 4A hair retains moisture better than 4B and 4C but still needs consistent hydration to prevent dryness. 

Shrinkage can be significant, making the hair appear much shorter than it actually is. If your curls form small, bouncy coils when wet and maintain a similar shape when dry, you likely have Type 4A hair.

Common concerns:

• Prone to shrinkage, making hair look shorter than it is

• Can dry out quickly, even with regular conditioning

• Easily tangled, especially at the ends

• Breakage can occur if hair is not properly moisturised

How to style Type 4A

Since Type 4A hair already has a well-defined curl pattern, styling should focus on hydration and maintaining curl shape.

Start with a moisturising leave-in conditioner or curl cream on damp hair. Use the shingling method—raking the product through small sections with your fingers—to help each coil stay defined. If extra hold is needed, layer a lightweight gel over the curl cream to maintain definition.

To minimise shrinkage, try styling in twist-outs, braid-outs, or banding. These methods help stretch the hair while keeping coils defined. If using a diffuser, keep it on low heat to avoid drying out the curls.

Best way to maintain Type 4A

Because this curl type needs consistent moisture, a regular hydration routine is key.

• Wash every 4-7 days using a sulfate-free, moisturising shampoo.
• Deep condition once a week to maintain softness and prevent breakage.
• Detangle using fingers or a wide-tooth comb while hair is wet and coated in conditioner.
• Use the LOC method (Leave-in, Oil, Cream) to lock in moisture.
• Protect curls by wearing a satin bonnet or scarf at night to prevent tangling and moisture loss.

Type 4B

Type 4B hair has tight, zig-zag curls that are less defined than 4A. Instead of forming spirals, the strands bend at sharp angles, creating a cotton-like appearance with a lot of volume. 

This hair type is dense, fluffy, and has a soft, cloud-like texture, but it can also shrink up to 70-80% of its true length.

Because of its tight structure, 4B hair struggles to retain moisture and is prone to tangling and breakage if not handled gently. The curls are less uniform than 4A, meaning some areas may look curlier while others appear more coiled or zig-zagged.

Common concerns:

• Extreme shrinkage, making hair appear much shorter than its actual length

• Dryness and breakage, especially at the ends

• Tangles easily, requiring gentle detangling methods

• Can be difficult to define curls without styling products

How to style Type 4B

Since Type 4B hair is less defined naturally, styling should focus on moisture retention and curl definition.

Applying a rich leave-in conditioner and sealing with oil helps prevent dryness. For added definition, use the finger-coiling method, wrapping small sections of hair around your fingers with curl cream to encourage a more defined curl shape.

Protective styles like twists, braids, or Bantu knots can help stretch the hair and reduce tangling. If you prefer a more natural look, applying a styling butter or gel can help clump curls together and enhance definition.

Best way to maintain Type 4B

Because this curl type loses moisture quickly, layering hydrating products is key.

• Wash every 7-10 days with a moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoo.
• Deep condition weekly to prevent dryness and keep curls soft.
• Detangle with fingers or a wide-tooth comb, always using a conditioner for slip.
• Use the LOC or LCO method (Leave-in, Cream, Oil) to maintain moisture.
• Style in protective hairstyles like braids or twists to reduce breakage.

Type 4C

Type 4C is the tightest, most coiled hair type, with curls forming a very tight zig-zag pattern or almost no visible curl pattern at all. 

The strands are extremely dense and fragile, making this hair type the most prone to shrinkage, dryness, and breakage if not properly cared for. Shrinkage can be as much as 80-85%, meaning hair may appear much shorter than it actually is.

Because of its tight curl pattern, 4C hair requires the most moisture and gentle handling. Without proper hydration, it can feel coarse and brittle, but when well-moisturized, it’s soft, versatile, and beautifully textured.

Common concerns:

• Severe shrinkage, often making hair look much shorter than its actual length

• Extreme dryness, requiring regular deep conditioning

• Easily breaks if over-manipulated or not moisturized enough

• Tangles and knots easily, especially at the ends

How to style Type 4C

Because Type 4C doesn’t always form a visible curl pattern naturally, styling should focus on moisture retention and protective techniques.

Using a thick, creamy leave-in conditioner or butter-based product on damp hair helps keep strands hydrated. Sealing in moisture with a natural oil like castor oil or shea butter prevents dryness.

For curl definition, twist-outs, Bantu knots, and braid-outs work well to create a defined curl pattern without heat. If you prefer a stretched look, banding or threading can elongate the hair without damage.

Best way to maintain Type 4C

Because this curl type is naturally fragile, gentle handling and deep hydration are essential.

• Wash every 7-14 days using a hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping moisture.
• Deep condition at least once a week with a thick, nourishing mask.
• Detangle gently using fingers or a wide-tooth comb, always with a slippery conditioner.
• Use the LOC or LCO method to maintain hydration throughout the week.
• Keep hair protected with low-manipulation or protective styles like braids, twists, or wigs.
• Sleep with a satin scarf, bonnet, or silk pillowcase to prevent moisture loss and friction.

What else affects your curl pattern?

Your curl type is just one piece of the puzzle—other factors like hair porosity, density, thickness, and even climate can change how your curls behave. Two people with the same curl pattern can have completely different needs based on these factors.

Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and holds onto moisture. Low-porosity hair repels water and product, while high-porosity hair soaks it up quickly but loses moisture just as fast. If your curls dry super fast or take forever to absorb product, porosity might be why.

Density and strand thickness also play a big role. Thick, coarse hair can handle heavier creams and butters, while fine hair needs lighter products to avoid being weighed down. The amount of hair you have (density) affects how much product you’ll need and how much volume your curls naturally have.

Even climate and humidity can impact your curls. Dry air can make curls feel brittle, while high humidity can cause excessive frizz. Understanding these factors helps you choose the right products and techniques to keep your curls looking their best.

How often should you wash & style your curls?

Curly hair doesn’t need to be washed as often as straight hair, but how frequently you cleanse depends on your curl type, lifestyle, and personal preference. Here’s a general guide:

Type 2 (Wavy hair)

• Wash every 2-3 days to prevent oil buildup.
• Use a lightweight, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
• Refresh waves with a texturising spray or lightweight curl refresher between washes.

Type 3 (Curly hair)

• Wash every 3-5 days, depending on oiliness and buildup.
• Use a moisturising shampoo and conditioner to keep curls hydrated.
• Refresh curls with water and a leave-in conditioner between washes.

Type 4 (Coily/kinky hair)

• Wash once a week or every 10 days to avoid stripping moisture.
• Co-washing (washing with conditioner) can help keep hair hydrated between washes.
• Deep condition weekly to maintain softness and prevent breakage.

How can you take a holistic approach to hair health?

Healthy hair isn’t just about styling—it’s about nourishing your scalp, strengthening your strands, and supporting natural growth. While your curl type determines how your hair looks, the right care routine plays a huge role in keeping it strong and thriving.

The Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine is designed to do just that. Developed with plant-based ingredients and stem cell technology, this three-step system targets hair thinning, breakage, and overall scalp health. 

It’s a drug-free, daily-use routine that’s clinically tested, with many users noticing less hair shedding in just a few weeks.

What’s in the routine?

• Hair Strength Shampoo – A gentle cleanser that removes buildup while keeping the scalp balanced.

• Hair Recovery Conditioner – Hydrates and strengthens strands, preventing breakage and dryness.

• Bio-Pilixin Activation Serum – Designed to stimulate follicles and support hair growth, especially in early stages of hair loss.

Each product is formulated with science-backed, natural ingredients like Capilia Longa® for hair density, Niacinamide for strength, and Aloe Vera for scalp hydration. 

These key ingredients help create an ideal environment for healthy, resilient hair while keeping curls soft and manageable.

Since hair health varies from person to person, results will be different for everyone. But clinical trials show 77% of users noticed less hair loss in just 45 days, with 73% experiencing increased hair density in 150 days. 

The biggest sign of progress? Many users report seeing less hair in the shower after just a few weeks.

Conclusion

Curly hair is unique, beautiful, and—let’s be honest—a little unpredictable. Understanding your curl type, porosity, and the right care routine can make all the difference in keeping it healthy and defined.

Washing frequency, styling techniques, and product choices should be tailored to your hair’s needs. Whether your curls are soft waves or tight coils, hydration and gentle handling are key. 

A structured routine—like the Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine—can also help strengthen and support hair over time.

At the end of the day, caring for your curls isn’t about controlling them—it’s about learning what they need and letting them thrive.

FAQs

Can I have multiple curl types on my head?

Yes, most people have more than one curl type. It’s common to have a mix of loose and tight curls, especially if your hair has different porosity levels or has been affected by past styling or heat damage.

Why do my curls look different every day?

Curls react to humidity, product buildup, hydration levels, and how they were styled the night before. If your hair looks different daily, it’s likely due to weather, product application, or how much moisture your curls retained overnight.

How can I reduce frizz naturally?

Frizz is caused by lack of moisture and environmental factors. To reduce it naturally:

• Use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner and lightweight oil to seal in moisture.
• Dry hair with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt instead of a regular towel.
• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent friction.

Does cutting my hair change my curl type?

A haircut won’t change your curl pattern, but it can make curls appear more defined by removing heavy, damaged ends. Sometimes, curls bounce back after a trim because the hair is healthier and no longer weighed down.

Do genetics or hormones affect my curls?

Yes! Genetics determine your natural curl pattern, but hormonal changes (like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause) can make hair curlier, straighter, or thinner over time. Stress and diet can also impact hair texture.

What’s the best way to sleep with curly hair?

To prevent frizz and maintain curl shape overnight:

• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.
• Use the pineapple method (a loose, high ponytail) to keep curls intact.
• Try a silk or satin bonnet or scarf for extra protection.
• Refresh curls in the morning with a light mist of water and leave-in conditioner.