Understanding Your Curly Hair Type: The Complete Guide

Adapted from the renowned Andre Walker Hair Typing System, categorizing curly hair has become both an art and a science. This guide will help you understand your unique hair type, ensuring that you can care for it in the most effective way possible.

Introduction to Curly Hair Types

Curly hair is a diversely complex texture that falls under several categories, from loose wavy patterns to tight, coily styles. By using the Andre Walker Hair Typing System, you can classify your curly hair into one of the four main categories (Type 1-4) and finer subcategories (2A, 2B, 2C, 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B, 4C).

The Four Main Categorizations

Type 1

Refer to Figure 1. Straight hair, categorized as Type 1, has no curl at all. It flows smoothly and is typically easy to style. If you have this type, your hair is likely to require less moisture and styling products.

Type 2

Wavy hair, classed under Type 2, has a more defined curvature but still maintains a smooth flow. It can be further divided into three subcategories:

2A: Fine, soft waves (Figure 2). 2B: Defined, wavy curls (Figure 3). 2C: Thick, coarse waves (Figure 4).

Type 3

Type 3 curly hair is characterized by defined curls. It can be broken down into three smaller categories:

3A: Loose, large curls (Figure 5). 3B: Medium-sized, voluminous curls (Figure 6). 3C: Tight, corkscrew curls (Figure 7).

Type 4

Coily or kinky hair, under Type 4, is the tightest and most curly. It can be further classified into three subcategories as well:

4A: Soft, fluffy curls (Figure 8). 4B: Z-shaped, less defined curls (Figure 9). 4C: Extremely tight curls with high shrinkage (Figure 10).

How to Determine Your Hair Type

Step-by-Step Guide

Wash and Dry: Begin by washing your hair using a gentle cleanser and thoroughly drying it without the use of any styling products. Observe: Examine the natural curl pattern of your hair. Pay attention to the width and texture of your curls. Classification: Follow the Andre Walker Hair Typing System to categorize your hair based on your findings. Use the provided figure references to help you.

Additional Considerations

How to Describe Your Hair

When describing your hair, consider the following:

Photographs: A close-up photo can provide visual cues for classification. Description: Further details about your hair's texture, density, and shape will help in an accurate classification. Density Tests: Use the method explained to determine whether your hair is thin, medium, or thick. Familiarize yourself with the scales provided. Texture Tests: Conduct simple tests to determine if your hair is fine, medium, or coarse. A sewing thread comparison can be highly effective.

To summarize, the Andre Walker Hair Typing System offers a detailed and accessible method to classify curly hair. By following these steps, you can identify your hair type and tailor your hair care routine to meet your specific needs. Understanding your curly hair type is the first step towards achieving beautifully healthy, curly locks.