There are several different hair typing systems that classify curly hair into different types based on its texture, curl pattern, and other characteristics. One commonly used system is the Andre Walker Hair Typing System, which categorizes hair into four main types based on the curl pattern:
- Type 1 (Straight): Hair that is completely straight with no curl pattern.
- Type 2 (Wavy): Hair that has a slight S-shaped curl pattern and can range from fine to coarse.
- Type 3 (Curly): Hair that has a defined curl pattern and can range from loose curls to tight corkscrew curls.
- Type 4 (Coily/Kinky): Hair that has a tight curl pattern and can range from small coils to tight, springy curls.
Within each of these categories, there are subtypes that describe the specific characteristics of the hair, such as the size of the curl pattern, the thickness of the individual strands, and the level of frizz or shrinkage. To determine your specific hair type and subtype, you may need to consult with a hairstylist or do some research to compare your hair's characteristics with the different categories and subtypes.
The subtypes for curly hair are typically based on the tightness or looseness of the curl pattern and the texture of the hair. Here is a breakdown of the subtypes for each type of curly hair based on the Andre Walker Hair Typing System:
Type 2 (Wavy):
- 2A: Fine, thin hair with a loose, tousled wave pattern
- 2B: Medium-textured hair with a defined S-shaped wave pattern
- 2C: Coarse, thick hair with a defined wave pattern and some frizz
Type 3 (Curly):
- 3A: Loose, springy curls with a defined S-shaped pattern
- 3B: Springy curls with a tighter S-shaped pattern and more volume
- 3C: Tight corkscrew curls with lots of volume and texture
Type 4 (Coily/Kinky):
- 4A: Tightly coiled curls with an "S" pattern and lots of volume
- 4B: Tight, kinky curls that form a "Z" pattern with less defined curls
- 4C: Very tightly coiled curls that may not have a defined curl pattern and appear more like a "Z" or "S" pattern.
Keep in mind that these subtypes are just a general guideline and may not perfectly describe everyone's hair. Hair can also have multiple textures and curl patterns, so it's important to consider all the characteristics of your hair when determining your subtype.