Curl Pattern Chart African American Hair

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Curl Pattern Charts for African American Hair in its Relaxed State

What is a Curl Pattern Chart?

A curl pattern chart is a helpful tool for African American women (and men) with relaxed hair. It's an easy way to identify the different types of curls and waves in your hair, so you can choose the best products and styling techniques for your texture. The curl pattern chart divides hair into four distinct categories: Type 1 (straight/wavy), Type 2 (wavy/curly), Type 3 (curly/coily), and Type 4 (coily). Each type is further divided into subcategories, with Type 1 having 4 subcategories and Types 2, 3, and 4 having 3 subcategories each. Knowing your curl pattern can help you choose the best products and styling techniques for your hair.

Types of Curls and Waves

Type 1 hair is the straightest and has the least amount of curl. It is often described as having a 'wet' look and can be prone to frizz. Type 1 hair can range from almost straight to lightly wavy. It is usually very fine, and can be limp or flat. Type 1 hair may be difficult to style and tends to need a lot of product to hold a curl or wave. Common styling techniques for Type 1 hair include blow-drying and flat-ironing.

Type 2 hair is wavier and has a bit more body than Type 1. It is often described as having a 'beachy' wave, and can range from lightly wavy to somewhat curly. Type 2 hair can be fine, medium, or coarse and is usually not as prone to frizz as Type 1. Common styling techniques for Type 2 hair include scrunching, plopping, and diffusing.

Type 3 hair is curly and usually has a lot of body. It is often described as having a 'well-defined' curl pattern and can range from loose curls to tight coils. Type 3 hair can be fine, medium, or coarse and is usually frizz-prone. Common styling techniques for Type 3 hair include twist-outs, braids-outs, and bantu knots.

Type 4 hair is the curliest and has the most amount of curl. It is often described as having a 'kinky' curl pattern and can range from tight coils to kinky twists. Type 4 hair is usually coarse and can be prone to frizz. Common styling techniques for Type 4 hair include twist-outs, bantu knots and protective styles like braids and weaves.

How to Identify Your Curl Pattern

Identifying your curl pattern can be a bit tricky, as it can vary from day to day depending on the products you use and the amount of heat styling you do. The best way to identify your curl pattern is to wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and let it air dry. Once your hair is dry, you can look for the different types of curls and waves in your hair and match them up to the categories on the curl pattern chart.

Tips for Styling Your Hair According to Your Curl Pattern

Once you have identified your curl pattern, the next step is to choose the right products and styling techniques for your hair. For Type 1 hair, look for products that are lightweight and add volume and texture, such as mousses, gels, and sea salt sprays. For Type 2 hair, look for products that help define your curls and add moisture, such as leave-in conditioners and curl creams. For Type 3 hair, look for products that help control frizz and add definition, such as gels, curl custards, and curl puddings. For Type 4 hair, look for products that provide moisture and hold, such as heavy creams and butters.

When it comes to styling, the key is to work with your natural texture and not fight against it. For Type 1 hair, you may want to try blow-drying or flat-ironing. For Type 2 hair, try scrunching, plopping, and diffusing. For Type 3 hair, try twist-outs, braids-outs, and bantu knots. For Type 4 hair, try twist-outs, bantu knots, and protective styles like braids and weaves.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your curl pattern is an essential step in caring for your African American hair in its relaxed state. By knowing your curl pattern, you can choose the right products and styling techniques to enhance your natural texture and make your hair look its best. Whether you have Type 1, 2, 3, or 4 hair, there are products and styling techniques that can help you get the look you want. So take the time to identify your curl pattern and find the best products and styling techniques for your hair.