Hair Types
There are four types of hair that may describe your hair type, and each of these types may lead to different types of health regarding your cuticle and scalp. The main four hair types include:
- Straight hair
- Wavy hair
- Curly hair
- Coily hair
Read on to learn the differences and help you determine what describes your hair best!
Straight Hair
The characteristics that make up straight hair include having a closed cuticle that is also round in nature, which gives your hair a straight look overall. Because the cuticle is closed, it is more likely to lock out water, moisture, and product. This can be great if you’re looking to avoid product build up, but it can be frustrating because hair may be prone to other issues such as:
- Flatness
- Resistance to curling
- Increased likelihood of oiliness
Adding volume to your hair can be more of a challenge when hair is straight, especially because many products also help add texture such as waves or curls and may not be as successful with straight hair. Using products that help make hair manageable and add dimension, such as texturizing spray or mousse, can help you choose a style all your own. Tools like curling irons or blow dryers paired with the right kind of product can make the style you want possible.
Wavy Hair
The hair follicle among those with a wavy hair type is less round and flatter, similar to an oval shape. That being said, unlike straight hair, wavy hair is easier to manage and style, as it is more receptive to products and heat tools.
Definition and volume may be a challenge for those with wavy hair, but with the right products and techniques, you can’t go wrong with making your wavy hair look its best.
Curly Hair
If you’re looking at the hair follicle from a curly-haired person under a microscope, the cross section of it would be a flatter oval than what a wavy-haired person has. This flat structure enables curly hair to become the shape that it is.
Like straight hair, people with curly hair usually have closed cuticles which resist water, moisture, and product. However, frizz and dry scalp are common issues associated with having curly hair because some curly-haired people may strip their hair of its natural oils too frequently.
Frizz can be common among the curly hair type, but using the right products to help with definition, frizz control, and locking in moisture can help curly hair look amazing no matter the weather conditions.
Coily Hair
The flattest hair follicle type of all is characteristic of coily hair. A hair cuticle from this hair type often follows an S pattern and the hair may be many textures, including soft, wiry, or fine. Coily hair cuticles are also more open than other hair types and easily absorb water, moisture, and product. However, they may also lose moisture, which leads to dryness.
Products that lock in moisture, prevent frizz, and keep hair from accumulating build up will help coily hair retain its shape and stay healthy.
About HairCode, backed by decades of hair care research and industry-leading cosmetic scientists
We're obsessed with hair and the science behind what makes it look and feel amazing. Our dedicated team leverages years of extensive haircare research and product development led by pioneering cosmetic scientists, PhDs in Biology and Chemistry, along with esteemed professional hair stylists from around the globe. Our goal is to be the most accurate and easy-to-use platform for you to learn about your hair. Our HairCode Quiz is built to harness a wealth of haircare research to give you a straightforward and science-backed haircare regimen recommendation based on questions that matter. We know that hair can be complicated. That's why we break it down for you piece by piece with your unique HairCode. So, let's get to the root of it... Because we are here to support you on a journey of self-discovery and love for your hair.
