Knowing the answer to your “What type of hair do I have” will assist you in determining the best ways to style and care for it. The four major different hair types are straight, wavy, curly, and kinky or coiled.
There are three subcategories for each group, and the different hair types can have different patterns and densities. The items that work for one type of hair texture may not work for another, and some may even be unnecessary.
Examining your unique set of hair, from straight hair to curly coils, is more than simply information to know or a distinguishing characteristic to discuss with your hairstylist. In fact, it’s essential to begin a hair care regimen and styling.
Once you have that information, you may decide how to improve the quality and looks of your hair.
So, to identify your hair type and care for it and style it in the best possible manner, keep reading!
Determining the 4 different hair types – Styling & caring!
Wavy Hair Type
How to determine if you have wavy hair:
Wavy hair falls somewhere between straight and curly hair types. If you have wavy hair, you’ll notice that your hair has an S-shaped pattern, and we are in awe of this type of hair. Your hair texture would be a bit bouncy. To confirm your hair type, you can try letting your hair air dry without any product. If your hair dries with a gentle wave or curl, then you likely have wavy hair.
How do you care for wavy hair type:
If you have wavy hair, then you should do everything to enhance its natural texture and definition. We suggest using a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for wavy hair to help enhance your waves without weighing them down. And how can you forget your leave-in conditioner, as it helps in reducing frizz and adding the required moisture to your hair?
Tips on styling wavy hair type:
To enhance your waves, you should go for a diffuser when blow-drying your hair or try air drying with a scrunching technique. If you want to create more defined curls, try using a curling wand or flexi rods.
Here’s a quick tip from a professional hair stylist:- Braid your hair while it’s damp and leave it to dry overnight for a more relaxed wave. (Isn’t it the easiest one?)
Kinky Hair Type
How to determine if you have kinky hair:
Kinky hair has a very tight curl pattern, forming tight coils or zig-zags. When wet, kinky hair can often appear shorter than it actually is, as the curls tend to shrink up. You may also notice that your hair feels very coarse and dense.
How to care for kinky hair:
If you have kinky hair, then it needs plenty of moisture and gentle care to stay healthy. To solve this, you can use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and try incorporating a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your routine. Be sure to use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, and avoid harsh chemicals and heat styling tools as much as possible.
How to style kinky hair:
Kinky hair is quite versatile, and you can hairstyle it in a variety of ways. You can embrace your natural curls and opt for a wash-and-go style, or try stretching your curls with twists or braids. The other way is experimenting with protective hairstyles like twists, braids, or cornrows to help keep your hair healthy and reduce breakage.
Straight Hair Type
How to determine if you have straight hair:
Straight hair is characterized by its lack of curls or waves. When you have straight hair, your locks look flat and smooth, with little to no texture or volume at all. To confirm, you can go by blow-drying your hair straight to see how it behaves, and you will get your answer right away(if there is not much change after straightening).
How to care for straight hair:
To care for your hair, it’s important for you to maintain its natural smoothness and shine. You can always opt for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to prevent dryness and damage and avoid heavy styling products that can weigh your hair down.
How to style straight hair:
To your surprise – straight hair can be styled in a variety of ways, right from sleek and polished to textured and tousled hair. To add volume and texture, you can always go for a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray. You can also experiment with different types of hairstyles, like a deep side part or a middle part, to change up your look.
Curly Hair Type
How to determine if you have curly hair:
Curly hair is characterized by its distinct curl pattern, with locks forming spirals or ringlets. If you have hair that is full of volume and bounces, with plenty of texture and body – then congrats, you have curly hair type. To confirm your hair type, you can try washing your hair and letting it air dry to see how it naturally falls.
How to care for curly hair:
To your information, or you might be aware of it – curly hair needs plenty of moisture and hydration to stay healthy and in place. To make it work in your favor, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair to help enhance your curls. Here’s the last tip: Consider using a deep conditioning treatment once a week to help nourish your locks and prevent breakage.
How to style curly hair type:
Believe me when I say this: You can style your curly hair in a variety of ways, from natural and defined to voluminous and dramatic. Also, try using a curl-defining cream or gel to help enhance your curls and reduce frizz. To enhance your curly hair, you can also experiment with different types of hairstyle trends, like a messy bun or a half-up, half-down style, to showcase your natural curls.
To conclude
The secret to having healthy hair is knowing the answer to “What is my hair type”! You will learn to address the appropriate hair issues as you gain a better understanding of your hair type. Additionally, being aware of your hair type enables you to select the appropriate serums, shampoos, masks, and brushes for your hair. Now you may create a hair care regimen that will improve and nurture your hair type.
If you are looking for further guidance, you can reach out to a Houston hair stylist- Greg Decker Hair, and he will be more than happy to help!
