Figuring out your curl type can be overwhelming. Especially if you have more than one curl pattern on your head (it happens!). Still, this information is essential for your basic hair care needs. Your curl pattern determines how much product you need, as well as how often you should use them. So, with so many types of curls out there — ranging from 2A to 4C, how can you correctly ID your unique curl pattern? Find out below!
What is “curl typing”?
“The number indicates the type of curl, and the letter represents the amount of curl,” Patricia Silva of Fringe Salon NYC, says. “The numbers range from 1-4, 1 being straight hair, and 2-4 being curly.” From there, you add the letters A, B, or C to your number to describe the extent of your texture and volume from loose to tight: from A being the loosest, C being the tightest.
4C
most-coiled pattern
experiences shrinkage
densely packed curls
spongy texture
goals we recommend:
deep condition
hydrate
curl definition
4B
tight zig-zag curls
resembles a pen’s spring
springy texture
goals we recommend:
deep condition
hydrate
4A
tight, “corkscrew” curls
experiences minor shrinkage
crochet-needle sized ringlets
goals we recommend:
anti-frizz
deep-condition
hydrate
3C
defined, volumized curls
pencil-sized spirals
densely packed
goals we recommend:
anti-frizz
deep-condition
hydrate
3B
large, spring-like loose curls
ringlets are the size of a permanent marker
needs moisture for curl definition
goals we recommend:
anti-frizz
deep-condition (+ hydrate for extra moisture)
curl-definition
3A
loose curls resemble a clear “S” shape
may need to “scrunch” hair to define curls
sidewalk-chalk sized curls
goals we recommend:
anti-frizz
curl-definition
2C
coarse, wavy pattern
a mixture of curls + waves
strands hold a defined “S” shape
goals we recommend:
anti-frizz
2B
“S” shaped wave pattern that doesn’t stick all that close to the head
prone to frizz near the crown of the head
easily lose wave definition
goals we recommend:
anti-frizz
curl-definition (if more-defined waves are desired)
2A
“S” shaped wave pattern that sticks close to the head
the of the 2’s
hair isn’t very dense
goals we recommend:
volumize
Note: your formula is always 100% tailored to your hair wants and needs. While our recommendations are based on the most common hair concerns different curl patterns experience, your unique hair goal selection is entirely up to you.
Is my curl pattern different from my hair type?
Yes! Those are two entirely different things. Your curl pattern determines the size and shape of your curls, while your hair type categorizes the thickness of your hair strands. For starters, you can have well-defined 3C curls but also have very fine strands. On the other hand, you can also have very thick, 2B hair.
How can I take care of my curls?
Great question! Function of Beauty’s hair care line is 100% sulfate-free (AKA, never-drying), meaning that our custom shampoo and conditioner are perfect for preserving moisture. This duo will strengthen your hair and boost its moisture levels for a healthier, shinier look. In addition, we also recommend following a hair care regimen in-and-out of the shower according to your hair’s porosity.
