What is 1C Hair Type
Before we get into caring for 1C hair, let’s discuss what it is. There are 4 types of hair: 1 (straight), 2 (wavy), 3 (curly), and 4 (coily). Within each type of hair are subtypes A, B, and C. 1A is the straightest hair type, 4C is the coiliest. Check out our Hair Texture Chart to see where you land.
It can be challenging to know whether you have type 1C hair or type 2A hair. The easiest way to tell is by rolling a strand of your hair between your fingers: Is it thick enough to feel the texture? Then you probably have 1C hair. If it’s too fine to feel, or you barely feel it, you likely have 2A hair.
How to Care for 1C Hair
Shampoo: While all hair is unique, 1C hair tends to be thick and coarse, meaning you shouldn’t shampoo more than 2 or 3 times a week because your hair craves your natural oils.
Condition: 1C hair tends to be oily near the scalp and dry at the ends. Pick a moisturizing conditioner, but only use it on the mid-shaft through ends to give your hair that glossy, silky feel.
Treat: If your hair tends to be flat near the scalp, add a volumizing treatment at the roots before you style.
How to Style 1C Hair
One of the great things about 1C hair is how easy to style it is. You can tousle, air-dry, and go, or use hot tools to make your hair stick-straight or give yourself big curls, or give yourself anything from a high ponytail to loose braids. Really, there’s no style 1C hair can’t do. Just make sure you don’t overstress your hair with heat and add frizz protection at the end of your routine, and you’ll be good to go.
Want to know more about what makes your hair, your hair? Learn more about the science behind the strands at our Tips & Tricks, or Take Our Quiz to unlock more of your hair’s secrets.
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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.
