Curly Hair Types: How To Tell The Difference?

Different types of curls

First of all, let's check out the different types of curls.

There are lots of different classification systems out there, but for the most popular you only need to know how to count from 2 to 4.

• Type 2 hair: 2a is wavy, 2b is a mix of wavy and curly and 2c is curly.

• Type 3 hair: 3a curls are large and loose, while type 3b curls are medium-sized and a bit tighter and type 3c curls are small and tightly coiled.

• Type 4 hair: 4a hair is tightly coiled, 4b has a "Z" pattern and 4c hair is tightly coiled with less defined curls. Type 4 curls range from tight, kinky coils to looser and bouncier.

What type of curly hair do I have?

So how do you know which type of curls you have? One way is to check the "curly hair chart" and see where your curls fall. You could also talk to a stylist or try different products and styling techniques to see what works best for your hair.

Curly vs. Wavy hair

There's a difference between wavy and curly locks. But don't worry, it's not rocket science, it's just a matter of texture and pattern. Wavy hair has a distinct wave appearance, with hair curling in a gentle, rippling pattern. The waves are often not as defined as curly hair and might be without a clearly defined structure. Wavy hair tends to be less prone to frizz than curly hair.

Curly hair, on the other hand, has a tight, defined curl pattern. The curls are often more tightly coiled and have a clearly defined shape. Curly hair tends to be drier than wavy hair and is more prone to frizz and tangling. It needs that bit more attention and care.

And one last thing, don't forget that "curly hair" and "wavy hair" are not mutually exclusive. You can have "wavy curly hair" or "curly wavy hair" and that's totally fine. A wide range of hair types also falls somewhere in between. Some of us may have a mix of both wavy and curly hair, or hair that is wavy at the roots and curly at the ends. It's important to understand your hair type and how it behaves to properly maintain and care for it.

It's all about embracing the unique beauty of your tresses, whatever type they may be! So, don't be afraid to "let your curls down" and show off your natural texture.

How to take care of curly hair?

Now, that you know what kind of curls you have, let's talk about caring for them.

Each type of curly hair has its own set of needs, but there are a few general tips to keep in mind.

1. Use shampoos specifically designed for curly hair. Using products specifically designed for curly hair can make a big difference for the appearance and well-being of your curls.

The right shampoo can make a huge difference. Aussie Bouncy Curls hydrating shampoo is designed to hydrate and nourish your curls, leaving them looking oh-so-bouncy and defined. We know how precious your tresses are, so Bouncy Curls shampoo is formulated to be gentle on curls. It's enriched with a bonza triple oil blend: jojoba, avocado and macadamia nut oil. Trust us, your manes will look delicious.

2. Add an extra boost of hydration with a leave-in conditioner. Leave-in conditioners are a great way to add extra moisture to your curls. Aussie Work That Curl Leave-in Cream can be used after washing your hair to help detangle and add a yummy boost of hydration. Our leave-in cream can also be used on dry hair as a styling aid to help define and control curls and refresh your ringlets.

3. Condition thoroughly: Curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair, so it's essential to use a good conditioner to keep your curls moisturised such as our own lightweight Bouncy Curls conditioner. Focus on the ends of your hair, where curls are driest. Leave the conditioner in before rinsing. Say hello to your daily dose of moisture to keep waves and curls extra hydrated and full of bonza bounce without any weigh-down.

4. Let’s talk about deeeep treatments! Nourish and deeply condition your curls with Aussie Bouncy Curls rich butter hair mask. Curly hair is naturally more prone to tangling and matting than straight hair and our butter hair mask helps provide a barrier between the curls making it easier to detangle. It also helps provide a boost of hydration leaving them looking soft and shiny. Aussie Bouncy Curls butter hair mask leaves your curls looking and feeling their best.

Got 3 minutes free? Go for Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Curls deep treatment and give yourself a treat of 3 days of soft, smooth and moisturised curls in, you guessed it, only 3 minutes! Our 3 Minute Miracle deep treatment will deeply moisturise and nourish curls, leaving them looking soft, smooth and hydrated. This deep treatment can also help detangle curls, making them easier to style. It can also be used as a leave-in treatment by leaving the product in your hair for 3 minutes and then rinsing it out. This little wonder of a product can help to deeply nourish and condition your locks, leaving them feeling soft and silky. Add some ultimate TLC to your curly hair care routine!

With both our 3 Minute Miracle deep treatment and butter hair mask, it’s up to you if you want to rinse them out straight away or leave them in for longer care.

5. Use a wide-tooth comb. It's essential to use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your curls. This helps prevent breakage and keep your curls looking bouncy and defined.

6. Avoid using heat styling tools too often, as they can damage and dry out your curls. Heat styling tools, like flat irons, can change your locks’ natural curl pattern leading to less defined and less bouncy hair. If you do choose to heat style it’s important to use a heat protectant product and use the lowest heat setting possible. You also shouldn’t flat iron your hair too often, as over time this can cause damage. It is best to avoid using flat irons as much as possible, embracing instead your natural curls and using styling techniques that don’t involve heat.

7. Air dry or diffuse. Hair dryers can damage and dry out curly hair too. Instead, try to let your curls air dry or use a diffuser attachment to dry your curls gently.

All curls are great

Whether you have 3a curls, coily hair, wavy hair, or anything in between, it's important to understand and embrace your unique hair type. With a little help from Aussie Bouncy Curls hair products, you can say G’day to beautiful locks!