If you have curly or coily hair, you should consider yourself lucky because you have a beautiful, versatile, and unique hair type. That said, you need to consider the right care to help make it stay healthy and defined. If you have 3c and 4a hair, for instance, there are techniques and routines that are well-suited for you.
Steps in Identifying Your Hair Type
- Wash and Air-Dry
Your hair should be free from any hair chemicals before letting it air-dry naturally. This will show the natural curly pattern of your hair without being manipulated. - Examine the Curl Pattern
If you see no curls, it is type 1 or the straight type. Wavy or one with a loose ‘s’ pattern is type 2, while curly or with defined spirals is type 3. Type 4, however, is one that shows a coily or kinky pattern. - Check Hair Diameter
Note that thick strands tend to hold styles longer, while fine strands need gentler handling. - Assess the Shrinkage
You can see that curly hair shrinks a lot when it is wet, while type 4 hair usually shrinks about 50 to 75 percent, whereas 3c shrinks less. - Note Your Hair Density
If your hair has high density, it means it has lots of strands or one with more volume. However, if it has low density, it means it is thinner or has a lighter look. - Observe Hair Behavior
Check if it reacts to moisture, humidity, or hair products. Sometimes, it can be prone to frizz, dryness, or tangling.
Routines for Taking Care of Your Curls
- Keep Your Hair Moisturized
Compared to straight hair, curls dry out faster. So, you need to use sulfate-free shampoo. You may also apply a leave-in conditioner after every wash. It is advisable that you deep condition it once a week. - Wash Smart, Not Often
Shampoo only every 7 to 14 days because over-washing can strip its natural oils. Co-wash only between washes if necessary. - Detangle Gently
If it is damp and conditioned, you can detangle your hair. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, start from the ends and work upwards. - Protect Your Curls at Night
You can sleep with a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase. If possible, try loose braids or the pineapple method.
If you need quality hair care products for textured hair, reach out to Heat Free Hair today. You can talk to us if you are looking for versatile styling options without the need for heat or chemical processing.
