Black Hair Types

Hair Types

There are generally 4 types of hair type: Bone Straight, Wavy, Curly, Coily / Kinky hair. Black Hair tends to fall into the latter 2.

Curly Hair: Also known as type 3 hair. Like all Hair types, curly hair has its own unique texture which can be characterised as fine and soft, curly hair doesn’t tend to have a lot of sheen, but makes up for this in body. Curly Hair also straightens when wet and curls as it dries.

To maintain curly Hair it’s often best to use a wide tooth comb to detangle hair after shampooing. It’s also important to use a deep conditioner every time you shampoo.
People with type 3 hair should use leave-In conditioner daily to reduce frizz. Towel drying should be kept to a minimum and air dry or blow dry should replace this on medium heat with a diffuser attachment instead.

Coily / Kinky Hair: Is also known as type 4 hair, it’s the most highly textured of all the black hair types. It can be characteristically described as very tightly curled and wiry and is the driest of all the types. And is the most fragile of the types if not cared for properly.  

To maintain coily / kinky hair, hair should be combed and detangled when wet and coated with conditioner. It is important to use a wide tooth comb, your fingers or a hair pick to detangle hair.

Deep conditioner should be applied to hair after shampooing preferably with protein to moisture your hair to keep it healthy and strong with a leave-in daily moisturizing routine to keep hair subtle to promote growth. Knowing what hair types you have is the first step in creating a good regimen to keep your hair in top condition. Choosing the right products for your hair type is also important to maintain healthy and manageable hair.