Identifying Your Curl Pattern / Type –
When It Matters and When It Doesn’t
Hey Babey,
It seems like everyone is obsessed with categorising their curls these days, doesn’t it? Whether it’s waves, curls, or coils—disclaimer: we here at Babeyhair group everything under “curls” because terms like “texture” and “natural hair” haven’t quite caught on yet, and let’s be real, we need one simple term to keep things easy!—there’s a lot of pressure to figure out exactly where you fit in. But here’s a thought: is it really that important? When it comes to the health of your hair, knowing your curl type isn’t as crucial as some might make it out to be. We’ll get into why that is later, but first, let’s talk about when this categorisation actually does make a difference.
When it comes to choosing the right haircut, selecting styling options, and filtering out products, having a rough idea of your curl type can indeed be helpful. That’s why I’ve put together a simple guide to help you make a quick assessment of your curl pattern.
A Simple Guide to Determining Your Curl Type
Before we jump in, keep in mind that this is just a rough guide. Most of us have a mix of different curl patterns, so don’t feel confined to just one
Waves (Type 2):
Your hair forms a loose S-shape, leaning more towards wavy than curly. Waves tend to appear straighter when wet, but they spring back into their natural wave pattern as they dry. They generally do best with lightweight products that enhance natural movement without weighing
Curls (Type 3):
Your curls are well-defined with a spiral structure. When wet, your curls might appear more elongated but retain their curly shape. These curls crave moisture to stay bouncy and frizz-free, and they benefit from layered cuts that add volume and definition.
Coils (Type 4):
Your hair has tight, Z-shaped or spiral curls, often dense and voluminous. Coils can shrink significantly when wet, appearing much tighter and more compact. They thrive on nurturing, hydrating products and cuts that emphasise their natural shape.
Remember, this guide is just a starting point. Most of us don’t fit neatly into one category—we’re all a beautiful blend of different textures. So, don’t stress about fitting perfectly into a box!
Why Curl Type Isn’t as Important for Hair Care as You Might Think
Now, let’s revisit why I didn’t focus on curl types in my ebook, “Back to Basics.” The truth is, when it comes to the health of your hair, hydration is key, regardless of your curl pattern. That’s why my ebook focuses on foundational care that works for everyone—because whether you have waves, curls, or coils, the principles of healthy hair are the same.
This approach allows you to simplify your routine and focus on what really matters—keeping your hair hydrated and healthy. And if you ever want to get more specific or need personalised advice, I’m here for you. You can book an online consultation with me to develop a custom plan that suits kyour unique hair needs.
Get the Basics in Our Ebook!
Want to learn more about how to keep your curls in top shape? Grab my ebook, “Back to Basics” filled with essential tips that apply to all curl types. Click [here] to purchase, and if you need more tailored guidance, consider booking your personalised coaching with me!
See you soon, Babey, and keep slaying those curls! 💋
x Sunny