An Overview of Natural Hair Types

Have you ever wondered about your natural hair type? It can be straight, curly, or wavy, and each type is further classified into subtypes, each requiring specific care routines. Understanding your hair’s features and characteristics is key to proper maintenance and styling. This post will delve into the main features of popular natural hair types to help you identify your own.

The Andre Walker Hair Typing System

One widely-used hair typing system was created by Andre Walker, Oprah Winfrey’s hairstylist. His classification, detailed in his book “Andre Talks Hair,” is simple and easy to understand. Walker’s system divides natural hair into four main categories: straight (Type 1), wavy (Type 2), curly (Type 3), and kinky (Type 4). Each category is further broken down into subtypes based on specific characteristics.

Straight Hair

Straight hair, or Type 1, is divided into three subtypes:

• Fine/Thin Straight Hair (1A): This hair type is very soft, smooth, and shiny. It’s common in Asian countries due to genetic and environmental factors. Fine hair struggles to hold curls with traditional methods like hair rollers and can be damaged by electronic curling devices.

• Medium Straight Hair (1B): This subtype has more volume than fine straight hair, giving a fuller appearance. If your hair is straight with shiny strands, it likely belongs to this category.
• Coarse Straight Hair (1C): Coarse hair has rougher strands and is more difficult to curl. Many Asian women fall into this category, and while it provides a robust texture, styling challenges are common.

Wavy Hair

Wavy hair, or Type 2, includes three subtypes:

• Fine/Thin Wavy Hair (2A): This type has slight waves that stick close to the head. It can be styled in various ways due to its mild texture and easy shaping capabilities.

• Medium Wavy Hair (2B): This hair tends to be frizzier and more resistant to styling, with S-shaped waves. Its natural wave pattern is fashionable and admired by many for its effortless charm.

• Coarse Wavy Hair (2C): Thicker waves and frizzy strands characterize this type. It is the most difficult to style, especially when trying to achieve straightness. The texture is often admired for its volume but requires specific care to manage its frizz.

Curly Hair

Curly hair, or Type 3, features:

• Loose Curly Hair (3A): Thick and full with S-patterned curls, this type is common in the US and UK. It is similar to wavy hair but with rougher ends, making it a distinct and popular choice.

• Tight Curly Hair (3B): This type has tighter curls and is a favorite for its versatility with different hair colors. It can have a combination texture, adding to its uniqueness.

• Corkscrew Curly Hair (3C): Known for its tight curls densely packed together, this hair type is challenging to straighten due to its firm curl pattern. It’s often referred to as corkscrews because of its coiled shape.

Kinky Hair

Kinky hair, or Type 4, is the most textured and is divided into three subtypes:

• Soft Kinky Hair (4A): Characterized by tightly coiled strands, this type is fragile and popular among black women. It requires a careful hair care routine, including sulfate-free shampoos to retain moisture and prevent dryness.

• Cotton-Like Kinky Hair (4B): This type has a Z-shaped curl pattern and feels wiry. It’s tightly coiled and tends to be dry and prone to breakage. Proper care and moisturizing are crucial.

• Coily Kinky Hair (4C): Even more tightly coiled than 4B, this type has no defined curl pattern and often appears shorter due to shrinkage. It is the most fragile and requires meticulous care to prevent breakage and maintain health.

Conclusion

Natural hair types vary globally, influenced by genetics and environmental factors. Understanding your specific hair type is essential for effective care and styling. By identifying your natural hair type, you can tailor your hair care routine to meet its unique needs, ensuring healthier, more manageable hair. Follow Luxshine Hair for more insights and tips on natural hair care, and for information on hair extensions or Vietnam hair extensions, feel free to contact us!