We All Have Good Hair: A Breakdown of Curl Patterns

3. Curly

A lot of different hair types are described as “curly.” To see if yours truly fits the bill, compare a strand of hair to the letter “S.” With or without product, curly hair is well-defined and springy. This type of hair has a lot of body and can be styled in many different styles. If your curls are 3A, 3B or 3C, the circumference of the curls can range from big, sidewalk chalk curls to tight, straw curls. The opposite of straight hair, curly hair stops the oil from working its way down the length of the hair and thus tends to be dry. In high humidity, curly hair can be notoriously frizzy and unmanageable.

Stylist recommend that you never brush curly hair when it’s dry and that you only use products recommended for curly hair. Hot water strips curly hair of moisture, so wash with warm water. The tighter the curls, the more moisture and regular deep conditioning treatments you will need to maintain healthy curls and reduce frizz.

3a – Loose “S” curls, sidewalk chalk circumference.

3b – Medium “S” curls, springy

3c – Tight “S” curls, straw circumference. Absorbs moisture