Understanding your hair type is essential for choosing the right products and treatments. Hair types are generally categorized based on texture (straight, wavy, curly, coily) and density (fine, medium, thick). Additionally, porosity (low, medium, high) plays a role in how hair absorbs moisture. Below is a breakdown of different hair types and care tips for each.
1. Straight Hair (Type 1)
Characteristics:
-
Naturally smooth, no curl pattern
-
Can be oily at the roots
-
Prone to flatness and lack of volume
Best Treatments & Tips:
-
Use volumizing shampoos to add body.
-
Avoid heavy conditioners (opt for lightweight, balancing formulas).
-
Dry shampoo can help absorb excess oil.
-
Heat styling can cause damage, so use a heat protectant.
Click here to read more about straight hair treatment
Recommended Products:
-
Shampoo: OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen
-
Conditioner: Kérastase Densifique Fondant Densité
-
Styling: Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast
2. Wavy Hair (Type 2)
Characteristics:
-
Loose “S” shaped waves
-
Can be frizzy or undefined
-
Tends to be dry at the ends
Best Treatments & Tips:
-
Use sulfate-free shampoos to prevent dryness.
-
Apply curl-enhancing creams or mousses for definition.
-
Avoid brushing when dry (use a wide-tooth comb when wet).
-
Plopping (wrapping hair in a microfiber towel) helps enhance waves.
Click here to read more about wavy hair treatment
Recommended Products:
-
Conditioner: Maui Moisture Lightweight Hydration
-
Styling: Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Mousse
3. Curly Hair (Type 3)
Characteristics:
-
Tight, springy curls (3A: loose, 3B: medium, 3C: tight)
-
Prone to dryness and frizz
-
Needs moisture and definition
Best Treatments & Tips:
-
Deep condition weekly with hydrating masks.
-
Use leave-in conditioners and curl creams for moisture.
-
Avoid sulfates and silicones that cause buildup.
-
Diffuse instead of air-drying to reduce frizz.
Click here to read more about curly hear treatment
Recommended Products:
-
Shampoo: DevaCurl No-Poo Original
-
Conditioner: Cantu Shea Butter Hydrating Cream Conditioner
-
Styling: Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls
4. Coily/Kinky Hair (Type 4)
Characteristics:
-
Tight coils or zig-zag pattern (4A: defined, 4B: less defined, 4C: most dense)
-
Very fragile and prone to breakage
-
Needs intense moisture and protective styling
Best Treatments & Tips:
-
Pre-poo (pre-shampoo oil treatment) with coconut or olive oil.
-
Use thick creams and butters (shea butter, castor oil).
-
Protective styles (braids, twists) help retain length.
-
Low-manipulation styling to prevent breakage.
Click here to read more about kinky hair treatment
Recommended Products:
-
Shampoo: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo
-
Conditioner: Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioner
Additional Tips Based on Porosity:
-
Low Porosity: Use heat (steam caps) to help products penetrate.
-
High Porosity: Protein treatments help strengthen hair.
-
Medium Porosity: Balanced moisture/protein works best.
Would you like recommendations for specific concerns (e.g., dandruff, color-treated hair)?
