What Is Curl Pattern?
Curl Pattern is the natural shape your hair forms, classified from Type 1 (straight) through Type 4 (coily) with subcategories A, B, and C.
Understanding Curl Pattern
The curl pattern classification system categorizes hair into four main types: Type 1 (straight), Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily). Each type has subcategories A, B, and C indicating increasing tightness. Type 2A is a loose wave while 2C is a deep wave. Type 3A is a loose curl while 3C is a tight corkscrew. Type 4A has a visible S-pattern while 4C has tight Z-shaped coils.
Why It Matters
Knowing your curl pattern helps you find relevant techniques, products, and communities. However, curl pattern is just one factor in your hair profile. Porosity, density, thickness, and elasticity are equally important and often more useful for product selection. Many people have multiple curl patterns on their head.
How To Apply This
- 1Wash hair with a gentle cleanser and let it air dry without product.
- 2Observe the natural shape your hair forms when dry.
- 3Compare to the Andre Walker typing system chart (1A-4C).
- 4Note that different sections of your head may have different patterns.
- 5Use your curl pattern as a starting point, but also test porosity and density for product selection.
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Related Terms
Porosity
A measure of how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture, determined by the condition of the cuticle layer.
Hair Density
The number of individual hair strands per square inch on your scalp, categorized as low, medium, or high density.
Hair Elasticity
The ability of hair to stretch and return to its original length without breaking, indicating its overall health and protein balance.
Wash and Go
A styling approach where hair is washed, products are applied to wet hair, and curls are left to air dry or diffused.
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