Know Your Curls: A Complete Breakdown of Curly Hair Types

Curly hair is beautifully diverse. From soft waves to tight coils, each curl pattern has its own unique needs and care requirements. Understanding your curl type is the first step to unlocking the healthiest version of your hair.

The Hair Typing System: What Are Curl Types?

Hair types are commonly categorized by the Andre Walker Hair Typing System, which classifies hair into four main types:

• Type 1: Straight
• Type 2: Wavy
• Type 3: Curly
• Type 4: Coily/Kinky

Since we’re focusing on curls, let’s dive deeper into Types 2, 3, and 4, and their subcategories.

Type 1: Straight Hair

1A – Silky Straight

• No wave.
• Fine and soft
• Reflects light well.

1B – Straight with Volume

• More texture.
• Slight body.

1C – Straight with Bend

• Thick and coarse.
• Slight bend at ends

Type 2: Wavy Hair

Wavy hair lies somewhere between straight and curly. It forms gentle bends and can range from loose to more defined S-shapes.

Type 2A – Loose Waves

• Fine and thin
• Easy to straighten
• Slight wave with little volume

Type 2B – Medium Waves

• More defined S-shape
• Tends to frizz
• Hair lies flatter at the crown

Type 2C – Thick Waves

• Coarse and thick
• Waves are more defined and start at the roots
• More prone to frizz

Type 3: Curly Hair

Curly hair has a clear, springy S-shape or ringlets. It typically experiences more volume and frizz.

Type 3A – Loose Curls

• Big, soft curls
• Shiny and well-defined
• Prone to dryness at the ends

Type 3B – Tight Curls

• Ringlets are springier and more voluminous
• Hair texture may vary within the same head
• More prone to shrinkage and dryness

Type 3C – Corkscrew Curls

• Densely packed curls with a corkscrew shape
• Very voluminous
• Prone to tangling and dryness

Type 4: Coily or Kinky Hair

This type is tightly coiled and packed with volume. Type 4 hair can be incredibly delicate despite appearing thick and robust.

Type 4A – Soft Coils

• Dense, springy coils
• Defined curl pattern
• Requires lots of moisture

Type 4B – Z-Shaped Coils

• Less defined pattern, sharp angles
• Hair bends in a Z shape
• Highly shrinkable and fragile

Type 4C – Tightest Coils

• Very tight, densely packed curls
• Minimal definition
• Highly prone to shrinkage, dryness, and breakage

Why Does Curl Type Matter?

Identifying your curl type can help you:

• Choose the right products: Lightweight for waves, richer formulas for coils.
• Build a healthy hair routine: Frequency of washing, detangling, and deep conditioning varies.
• Avoid damage: Knowing how fragile or dry your curls are can prevent over-manipulation or breakage.

Tips for All Curl Types

• Hydration is key – Curly hair is naturally dry, deep condition regularly.
• Avoid sulfates and alcohols – They strip natural oils and increase frizz.
• Sleep on satin or silk – Protects curls from breakage and frizz overnight.

Final Thoughts

No curl is the same—and that’s what makes curly hair so special. Whether your strands are softly wavy or tightly coiled, embracing your texture starts with understanding it.

Your curl type is a guide, not a rulebook. Many people have more than one curl pattern, and that’s totally normal. Start with the chart above, experiment with care routines, and most importantly—celebrate your curls!

Written By Zymist: Dr. Jalpa Edited By: Zymist Priyal Shah