Understanding Curl Patterns...
- Bee Harmoni
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read

EYH REVELATION: A Guide for Black Women
Our hair is a beautiful tapestry of textures and patterns, each telling its own story. Recognizing your curl pattern is the first step in embracing and caring for your natural hair.
The Curl Typing System
The most widely recognized system for classifying hair types is the Andre Walker Hair Typing System. It categorizes hair into four main types, with subcategories to capture the nuances of curl patterns:
Type 1: Straight hair
Type 2: Wavy hair (2A, 2B, 2C)
Type 3: Curly hair (3A, 3B, 3C)
Type 4: Coily/Kinky hair (4A, 4B, 4C)
For Black women, Types 3 and 4 are most common, each with its unique characteristics and care needs.
Visualizing Curl Patterns
To better understand these types, here's a visual representation:
Source: Odele Beauty
Detailed Breakdown
Type 3: Curly Hair
3A: Loose, well-defined curls with a shiny appearance.
3B: Tighter curls with more volume and a combination of textures.
3C: Tight corkscrew curls with a lot of density and volume.
Type 4: Coily/Kinky Hair
4A: Soft, tightly coiled hair with a visible curl pattern.
4B: Z-shaped curls with less defined patterns and more shrinkage.
4C: Tightly coiled hair with minimal definition, prone to shrinkage and dryness.
Caring for Your Curl Type
Each curl type has specific needs:
Moisture: Type 4 hair often requires more moisture due to its structure.
Styling: Protective styles like braids or twists can help retain length and moisture.
Products: Using products tailored to your curl type can enhance definition and health.
Understanding your curl pattern empowers you to make informed decisions about hair care routines, products, and styles that best suit your natural texture.
Embrace your curls, coils, and kinks—they're a testament to your heritage and individuality.
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