Hair types: the characteristics of the strands and the care for each one

The table of hair types, which ranges from straight hair to voluminous curly hair, was created to help us know the specific characteristics of the hair and know what care we should take with each one. There are 4 categories and each of them has 3 subdivisions that specify the definition and thickness of the locks.

Do you know which one is yours? We consulted the hairdresser Luísa Fregonezi, from the visagismo studio Cabelo’s Hair Peluqueria to learn more about hair types, as well as tips and care for each one. Check out:

Type 1 hair: straight

The first type on the table is 1, straight hair. They are divided into 3 subcategories that differ by the thickness and movement of the wires. See the differences between them and the recommended products:

1A

This type of hair does not have any kind of wavy and is known as extreme straight, without any kind of texture.

Tips and care: as this hair tends to be very thin and fragile, it is advisable to comb it carefully, use light products so the hair doesn’t get heavy and trim the ends frequently.

1B

Hair 1B does not have any kind of wavy, but it differs from type 1A in its thickness, being thicker than the previous one.

Tips and care: if you want to give volume and movement to the 1B strands, the tip is to use dry shampoos. To clean and finish the locks, prioritize light and transparent products.

1C

This type of hair is thicker and heavier than the previous ones, resulting in voluminous locks. In addition, 1C is prone to oiliness.

Tips and care: It is recommended to use anti-residue shampoos, which prevent oiliness and dandruff without having to wash your hair every day.

Although type 1 wires are easy to maintain, do not dispense with weekly hydration. Remember to use specific products for straight strands so that the hair is not heavy or oily.

Type 2 hair: wavy

Type 2 hair is wavy and its subdivisions A, B and C have different thicknesses and shapes. These hairs have curves and textures in the length, but the root is smooth. See the features and tips for each one:

2A

Also known as “smooths that set up”, this type of wire has a slightly marked waveform. It is not yet possible to see the formation of a definite S.

Tips and care: for 2A hair, it is recommended to use light products for cleaning, such as transparent shampoos and gel cosmetics so that the hair does not feel heavy. Layered cuts give movement and volume to the strands.

2B

In this type of hair it is possible to see the formation of an S pattern. The 2Bs, however, do not have a spring or hook shape.

Tips and care: Type 2 hair needs stimuli such as hair texturizing to present curls. To give the locks movement, you can “knead” the hair while it is wet. Luisa warns that products that are too humectant can make the hair feel heavy and lose its definition.

2C

This type presents a more marked formation of the curl and the wires are usually extremely sensitive. The 2C root is smooth, so the definition of the strands can change throughout the day.

Tips and care: For this type, we recommend layered cuts and hairstyles that develop the wavy structure of the strands. To maintain the definition of waves in everyday life, use light and stimulating products.

According to the specialist, type 2 has a low degree of shrinkage and can be cut wet, without altering its length.

Type 3 hair: curly

And curly hair is defined as type 3. They tend to be voluminous and the shapes and definitions of curls are diverse. Check out the differences between A, B and C, the care needed for each type and product recommendations.

3A

This type of hair is characterized by very defined but looser curls. These are sensitive, wide and spiral-shaped wires. Its root is not wavy.

Tips and care: for type 3A curls, products that help define the structure of the curls are recommended. For maintenance, you can switch between creams and mousses to define curls.

3B

The curls of this type of hair are smaller and more closed. The ends tend to be dry, as the natural oil does not reach the entire length.

Tips and care: from this type of curl, it is possible to use creamier shampoos to clean the wires, in addition to dense creams for hydration.

3C

This type of yarn is characterized by even narrower curls compared to 3B, but it is still possible to see the well-defined formation of the curl.

Tips and care: for this type, we recommend moisturizing and moisturizing with creamy products. As this yarn has a higher degree of shrinkage when wet, Luisa recommends dry cuts.

Type 3 allows you to use creamier products to keep your curls hydrated and nourished without weighing your curls down. For more definition, texturize and invest in a curl activator cream.

Type 4 and 5 hair: Curly

Types 4 and 5 are known as curly hair and are characterized by voluminous locks and texturing from the root. Some subdivisions form curls and others have a drier texture and voluminous locks. Here’s how to take care of these wires:

4A

According to the professional, the difference between this type of curl in relation to the 3ABC is that even wet it presents very visible curls. It’s a mix of curls and twists.

Tips and care: these wires have a thin layer of cuticle, which makes them retain very little moisture. Therefore, it is recommended to use dense products, such as creamy shampoos and conditioners, and buttery creams. If you want to keep your curls defined, bet on artificial textures.

4B

This type of hair is characterized by very curled strands with a zigzag shape, being less defined. It is a drier and extremely thin thread, which makes them very sensitive.

Tips and care: Invest in essential oils and moisturizing products to keep your hair nourished. For this type of hair, it is important to do weekly hydration so that the locks remain healthy without being dry or with rough textures.

4C

This hair is characterized by great volume and little defined curls. It is extremely sensitive because it has a very fine thread and has high degrees of porosity and shrinkage.

Tips and Care: Because of the shrinkage of the strands, dry 4C hair is reduced to ⅓ of the length, so cuts should be done dry. Luisa claims that cutting this type of hair means sculpting her shape. To keep them healthy, you need to moisturise and moisturize with dense and extremely creamy products.

5

5 was recently included in the hair types table and it is an ultra-textured and frizzy strand that does not form curls, in addition to being super voluminous.

Tips and care: moistening with essential oils is essential for the maintenance of locks, as they help to prevent porosity of locks. As this is dry hair, avoid washing it every day and use creamy products.

The hairdresser reminds that wires type 4 and 5 must be cut dry so that the shrinkage of the locks does not affect the length and the final result. They are powerful hair but need constant hydration to stay healthy.

Found your hair type? Luisa remembers that in addition to knowing the characteristics of your strands, you need to take into account what you prefer in your locks. There are different cuts, definitions and trims for each strand, as well as different products for each one.