Discover Your Afro Hair Type

Your afro hair is as unique as you are. Most of us fall into a particular hairstyle category, which determines how our hair looks and how it should be looked after. 

So, knowing where you sit on the afro spectrum is essential for treating your hair with the TLC it deserves. 

In our article, we discuss different hair categories with a particular focus on African hairstyles, which include several curl patterns. 

What Are the Different Hair Categories?

You can discover your hair type by gently stretching and then releasing a strand to see what shape it forms once relaxed. 

Category 1: Straight

This highly-reflective hair type tends to be less prone to damage and is easy to control. Shiny and strong, it typically requires semi-permanent treatments to achieve long-lasting curls. 

Category 2: Wavy

Wavy hair presents as soft beach-like curls that hang rather loosely. This is a highly versatile hair category that is generally malleable to various styling options.

Category 3: Curly

Bold and beautiful, curly hair tends to stand out. Whilst benefiting from natural volume, it often requires some intervention to help control frizz and retain moisture. 

Category 4: Kinky/Coily

This category of hair is most prevalent in African communities and found in both men and women, ranging from tight to Z-angled coils. It is naturally wiry and prone to dryness and damage if not properly cared for. Within category 4, there are three sub-categories: 4A, 4B and 4C.

What’s the Difference Between 4A, 4B and 4C?

The defining features of the category 4 sub-categories are as follows.

• 4A – This sub-category is usually identified by defined S-shaped spirals which are springy and hang relatively loosely without being interlocked. Generally easier to style, all category 4 hair types are prone to dryness and damage, so require regular moisturising. 
• 4B – This sub-category features hair coils that are more densely packed and tighter than their 4A counterparts. They often present as a zig-zag pattern and can be prone to shrinkage. 
• 4C – The main characteristic of this sub-category of hair is its thickness. This often presents as small, tightly packed coils, hard to define from a distance, that interlock with one another. It typically appears much shorter than it is due to heavy shrinkage. Type 4c hair wearers should use silk and sating caps when sleeping, due to frequent breakage. 

What Is My Afro Hair Type? Final Thoughts

We hope this article has helped answer any questions regarding ‘What is my afro hair type?’ 

Remember, the afro hair stylists at Hype Coiffure have a wealth of knowledge about managing afro hair and can help customers from miles around keep their hair healthy and looking amazing. 

Get in touch today to find out more.