Every head of hair is different, and each type has problems that are exclusive to it. Two common types of curly hair include the 2c, also known as ‘two strand’ curl, and the 3a, which has a wider ‘s’ shape. In this article, we will discuss how to take care of each type, and some tips on how to maintain their unique curl pattern.
What is the difference between 3A and 2C hair type?
3A Hair Type
This type of curls is well known for its coils, and may gain a lot of volume as the day goes on. If you have 3a curls, it means your hair is more coarse than other curl patterns. The best way to maintain this curl pattern is to use a shampoo that has moisturizing properties- sulfate-free shampoos are also helpful in maintaining healthiness. While minimizing frizz should be everyone’s goal with any curly hair type, those with a 3a curl pattern need extra help in controlling frizz and making their strands pop. After cleansing, try using a leave-in conditioner combined with an oil serum to help tame frizz. You can also use a diffuser when you blow-dry your hair to add more definition to the curls. There are many differences with 2C vs 3A hair types, so you need to understand these differences before taking care of your hair. Also, keep in mind that you should choose the right shampoo and deep conditioner for your hair!
2C Hair Type
The ‘two-strand curl’ the 2c hair type is known for tends to be much more fragile than other curls. If you have this type of hair, you know that it can’t handle too much product or even heat styling tools if they are used frequently. However, there are some tricks to take care of your 2c hair type properly without damaging it. First, you need to cleanse with a sulfate-free shampoo and con demote at least every four days- one week is ideal. Secondly, use a deep conditioner once per week (or daily if you like), which will help the moisture levels in your scalp and strands. The key to maintaining a healthy 2c curl is using hydration. Try to stay away from styling products that are crunchy or drying.
Is curly hair hard to take care of?
While curly hair is not necessarily hard to take care of, it does require more maintenance than other hair types. This is because the natural oils that are produced by the scalp do not travel down the strands as easily as they do with straight or wavy hair. Because of this, it is important to use hydrating products and avoid using anything that will dry out the hair. In addition, curly hair should be cleansed and conditioned at least every four days in order to keep it healthy and free of build-up. People often say that curly hair is harder to maintain since it is so different from straight hair. However, this does not have to be the case if you know how to do it.
How do I know if I have 2C or 3A curl type?
The best way to determine which type of curly hair you have is by looking at the shape of your curls. If they take on a more S shape, then you probably have a 2C hair type. Those who have 3A hair types tend to have more of a zigzag pattern in their strands. There are other ways to determine curl types, but these methods do not give 100% accurate results. For example, there is the finger detangling method, which involves parting the hair into small sections and seeing if individual hairs untangle easily or if they get stuck together. However, this does not tell the whole story, since even a straight strand will get ‘stuck’ occasionally when combing through it with your fingers. The other common way to determine curl types is by looking at the backside of the strand and seeing if it is mostly straight, wavy, or curly.
Is curly hair more often seen than straight hair?
More and more people are embracing their natural curl patterns, and even straightening out their strands for a sleek look is becoming less common. For example, in Japan, you will see many women rocking their naturally curly hair without any effort to make it appear straighter. However, this does not mean that everyone has embraced the idea of natural beauty and there is still a lot of pressure to follow what the mainstream media promotes: straight hair is beautiful while curly or wavy hair is frequently looked down upon as being ‘messy’ or unmanageable. The truth about which texture truly looks better on each individual person varies widely from one person to another, since attractiveness truly comes down to personal preference.
Now that you know a little more about 2c and 3a hair types, you can take better care of your own curls! Be sure to use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioners, deep condition regularly, and use styling products that will add hydration. With a bit of effort, you can have beautiful, healthy curls that are easy to manage!