Hair + Beauty

How Redheads Can Find Their Wave/Curl Pattern Type

Understand Your Red Hair

hair pattern

Did you know that most redheads have some wave or curl pattern? Red hair is typically thick and coarse and is rarely completely straight. Wavy or curly hair not cared for properly can look dry, frizzy, and unmanageable. We all want beautiful red hair, and understanding your hair type can help you determine the best way to take care of it, the best products to use, and the most flattering haircuts. Here’s everything you need to know about wave and curl patterns:

The hair type system: 

The most common way hair is classified is as a hair type. Hair types typically range from 1A to 4C, with each number and letter combination classifying hair differently. 

The number portion of your hair type is used to denote the texture of your hair. 

Type 1: Straight

  • This type is completely straight and has no natural wave or curl. It typically lies flat against the scalp and has a smooth texture. It can vary in thickness, from fine to coarse, but retains a straight appearance.

Type 2: Wavy

  • Wavy hair has a natural wave pattern that forms an S shape. It can be loose or more defined and often has more volume than straight hair. Wavy hair may also be prone to frizz, especially in humid conditions.

Type 3: Curly

  • Curly hair features well-defined curls that can range from loose to tight. This type is characterized by its bounciness and volume. Curls vary in size and texture, and curly hair often requires more moisture to maintain its definition and avoid frizz.

Type 4: Kinky / Coiled

  • Kinky hair has tight curls or coils, often with a zigzag pattern. This type can be dense and may shrink significantly when dry. It tends to be more fragile and requires extra care and moisture to keep it healthy and defined.

Each hair type has unique needs regarding care, styling, and products. Knowing your type can help you develop a routine that works best for you! The letter portion of your hair type denotes how defined/tight the wave or curl is. A is the least defined, while C is the most defined. 

Understanding each hair type:

We get 12 total hair types with this system, although some charts may only show 10. Types 1A, 1 B, and 1C are combined, as there isn’t a vast difference between them. Determining which hair type you have can be very helpful for styling and choosing the right products

Type 1A: Very straight, no texture. Typically, this hair type is more on the fine side. 

Type 1B: Slight bend, but still straight. It may be less fine than 1A.

Type 1C: Subtle bend, may be coarser in texture. 

 

Type 2A: Loose waves may be wavy and fine. 

Type 2B: More defined “S” waves, but still loose. It is usually coarser in texture than 2A.

Type 2C: Well-defined “S” waves, may have some full curls but overall wavy and more coarse. 

 

Type 3A: Loose curls that are more defined than just “S” shaped waves.

Type 3B: Spingy or bouncy type curls, starting to make more of a ringlet shape.

Type 3C: Defined ringlets that bounce back when stretched. 

 

Type 4A: Loose coil, more coarse and very defined but not as tight as 4B or 4C.

Type 4B: Tight zig-zag coils, tighter than 4A, and create a “Z” shape.

Type 4C: Tight coils prone to shrinkage. It may be a combination of coil, tight ringlet, and “Z” shape. 

How to care for your red hair:

Every hair type needs something different, and the best way to care for your red hair is to focus on your hair type and how it looks and feels. Here are a few product types that may work well for each hair type:

  • Straight hair can often be overly oily and may be fine or thin in feel. The best products are ones that add volume and reduce oils. 
  • Wavy hair is often prone to dryness and frizz. The best products add hydration and moisture to the hair. 
  • Curly hair is also prone to frizz. The best products are ones that add curl definition and hydration.
  • Kinky/Coiled hair needs deep hydration and taming. The best products help define curls, add hydration, and aid in styling. 

Rock it like a Redhead!

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READ: How to Determine Your Hair Type: A Complete Guide for Redheads

READ: Why Hair Type/Texture Matters When Picking a Haircut for Redheads