Defining natural curls is all about discovering your hair type and everything your hair needs. And we’re here to help you work those curls and give them some attitude! After all, they are an extension of you, so let’s showcase them with style…the only way we know how! Whether you have loose curls, springy curls, corkscrews, or zigzags…they all make bold statements and compliment diversity. So get ready for the next level of your curly hair care routine. We expect great results with all the tools, tips and techniques we provide for natural curls.
Natural Curls 101: Making The Most Of Time & Money
We have all gone surfing for the best in hair care products. And because there are so many options out there, we simply hope for the best with whatever we choose. Then the moment arrives when we judge them for ourselves. Ugh! The results are far from what we expected!
So what’s the problem, and how do we fix it? Well, first everyone’s hair is different. Therefore, products we buy (in good faith) are not always the answer to our CURLtastrophes! And what works for one natural hair curl pattern, may not work for another. So the best place to start is knowing your specific Hair Type.
Second, find the best hair care routine for your hair type. Rest assured, we have solutions to help you with this – to save time and money! We know you want to get it right the first time! And it’s all about knowing what you are working with and having the right tools on hand. We’re all about finding the best in natural hair care. So let’s begin with finding your specific hair type.
Hair Type: Finding Your Natural Curl Pattern
Learning your hair type is fairly simple. First, hair type forms according to the shape of the hair follicle that natural hair grows from. For example, if your hair follicle shape is oval, you are more likely to have natural curly hair! So those who have altered their hair with heat or chemicals should “look to their roots” for their true curl pattern. Needless to say, it’s best to stay away from heat or chemicals if you want your curls to maintain their natural state.
Second, make sure your hair is squeaky clean and moist with water before you determine your hair type. As it dries, take a look at your natural hair curl pattern (or patterns). Yup, don’t be surprised if you see more than one! It’s the beauty of natural hair! So let’s move on to the basics of hair charts. But don’t fret, it’s not rocket science, and really just a guide to natural hair patterns.
Hair Chart Basics
There are many examples of hair charts for anyone curious enough to learn about the subject. Yet, to save you some time, we will cover the basics of the typical hair chart. Each Hair Type consists of four main numerical groups (1,2,3, and 4) which describe shape. Let’s take a look:
Hair Types (1-4)
- TYPE 1 = STRAIGHT
- TYPE 2 = WAVY
- TYPE 3 = CURLY
- TYPE 4 = KINKS and COILS
Straight is…well straight. And although we love the sophistication of waves, our topic here is on natural curls and all their complexities! And now that you know the numerical groups, it’s time to break these down into subcategories (a,b,c) which describe curl width. The pictures help illustrate the differences, which is quit fascinating don’t you think?
Subcategories (a,b,c)
- a = WIDEST
- b = IN BETWEEN
- c = TIGHTEST
Again, keep in mind that this is just a tool to help you discover various hair groups and subcategories. Your natural hair may not fit perfectly into one particular category. But that’s ok! This makes your natural curls all the more intriguing and uniquely you! So embrace them for what they are and have fun with them! It is all apart of exploring your curls and how you want them to showcase your inner and outer beauty!
What’s Your Natural Hair Curl Pattern?
Hair Type 3 & 4
So let’s focus on curls and coils. Curly and coily hair make bold statements when given the proper care and nourishment. They speak for themselves, and become works of art in the hands of those who know curls and coils! So we want you to rock those curls and coils from the roots down to the ends!
So here are types 3 and 4 broken down even further to show you how diverse curls and coils can be. This also makes you appreciate hair in all its beauty, and why everyone should embrace their natural hair no matter the type!
TYPE 3: CURLY HAIR
3A – Loose Spiral Curls (more relaxed)
3B – Springy Curls (bigger circumference)
3C – Tight Corkscrews or Zig Zags (less circumference and more tight and coarse)
TYPE 4: KINKY COILY HAIR
4A – Coily (dense and springy)
4B – Zig Zag (densely packed and can bend at sharp angles)
4C – Tightly coiled/zig zag (little or no drop in curl, more fragile and prone to shrinkage)
So hopefully now you have some idea of your specific hair type (or types). Now it’s time to discover the best tools, tips and techniques to bring out the best in your natural hair curl pattern.
Tips, Tools, and Techniques For Defining Natural Curls
And The Perfect Wash Day Routine!
- Use hydrating shampoos and leave-in conditioners. NO SULFATES, which dry out hair!
- Always use a scalp massager while shampooing to carefully circulate blood in the scalp and promote healthy looking curls.
- Be gentle and part your hair in four sections to make things easier!
- Then Deep Condition with the right tool to seal in moisture and maintain soft, manageable curls.
- Detangling is a must! So lubricate your hair when detangling to prevent breakage.
- Use water-based products for the best moisture therapy. Apply when wet.
- And don’t even think about detangling without this must-have Detangler…period!
- Then after all that good ole massaging, detangling, and rinsing, please don’t go grabbing that bath towel to dry your hair! Use this Drying Gem instead to prevent hair breakage!
- And when those pillow-soft curls are ready for the pillow, make sure you cover them in a satin bonnet while sleeping to lock in moisture while you snooze.
- The next day, you will love how quickly and conveniently this tool refreshes and hydrates your curls… all throughout the day!
- And remember….keep your hair from heat as much as possible! Only use heat when deep conditioning to lock in moisture.
- Last, never over-manipulate your hair. Hair is delicate, so get in there…and get out!
So there you have it! A few tools and tips can go a long way to give your curls and coils the look they deserve. It doesn’t have to be complicated! Be sure to learn the complete steps to the Perfect Wash Day Routine made specifically for Type 3 and 4 hair!
Have Fun With Your Natural Curls
So now that you know your hair type and natural curl pattern, have fun with it! There are no set rules here. Just use our natural curls tools, tips, and techniques to make your hair care routine a little easier. After all, natural curls are not meant to be perfectly sculptured on your head! In fact, the more twists and turns, zigs and zags, the better! So steer away from perfection, and appreciate their “natural” beauty. Be patient in the process and find out what works for your Type 3 or Type 4 curls. No matter where you are in your journey, we support you. So have fun expressing yourself through your natural curls and inner beauty!
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