Discussions

Determining your curl type is essential for tailoring your hair care routine. The Andre Walker Hair Typing System is commonly used, categorizing curls into four main types (1 to 4) and further classifying them based on their pattern. Here's a brief guide to help you identify your curl hair type:

Type 1 - Straight Hair: Straight hair with no defined curl pattern. It tends to be sleek and resistant to holding curls.
Type 2 - Wavy Hair: Subdivided into 2A, 2B, and 2C:
2A: Loose, beachy waves.
2B: Slight S-shaped waves and more defined than 2A.
2C: Waves are more prominent, approaching a loose curl pattern.
Type 3 - Curly Hair: Subdivided into 3A, 3B, and 3C:
3A: Large, loose curls.
3B: Springy, well-defined curls with more volume.
3C: _Tight, corkscrew curls that may vary in circumference.
Type 4 - Coily Hair: Subdivided into 4A, 4B, and 4C:
4A: Well-defined, tightly coiled curls with an "S" pattern.
4B: Z-shaped curls with less definition and more shrinkage.
4C:_ Tightly coiled with minimal definition and significant shrinkage.

To identify your specific curl type:
Observe Your Curl Pattern: Examine the shape and size of your curls, whether they're loose waves, tight coils, or somewhere in between.
Consider Strand Size: Fine strands may have a looser appearance, while coarse strands often result in more defined curls.
Evaluate Shrinkage: The extent to which your hair shrinks when dry can help determine your curl pattern.
Remember, many individuals have a combination of curl patterns so that you might fall into more than one category. Knowing your curl type aids in selecting appropriate products and styling techniques for optimal hair health and definition.