Wavy

What is Type 2c Hair? The Science Behind the Strand

Woman with wavy 2c hair smiling while showing peace sign gesture with hands

2c Hair Type

Check out a lock of your hair. Is it wavy? Is it curly? If you’re not sure, you probably have type 2c hair, so wavy it’s almost a curl, but not quite. These strands fall in an s-shape pattern, and the wave starts from the root, not halfway down the strand. This hair tends to be thick and coarse, and the waves usually don’t fall in the same pattern, making for truly unique locks.

It's important to note that this article focuses on 2c hair type rather than 2c hair color. The hair type scale offers invaluable insights into the texture, curl pattern, and structure of your hair, but please note that this article does not specifically cover tips related to the nuances of the 2c hair color.

Caring for 2c Hair

One of the most wonderful aspects of type 2c hair is that it’s relatively hardy and resistant to damage, this hair type works best with a lighter touch, meaning washing only once or twice a week with a shampoo that won’t strip natural oils from strands, and putting down the heating tools to allow your natural texture to shine. Opt for nourishing and hydrating conditioners, and always follow with lightweight, frizz-fighting sprays or oils, as this hair is naturally prone to frizzing, especially in humidity.

Styling 2c hair

The secret to caring for type 2c hair is understanding your hair’s specific needs: heavy products designed for type 3 and type 4 hair (curls and coils) can make your strands fall flat, while the products designed for type 1 and type 2a and 2b hair don’t give you the hold, definition, and frizz-fighting power your hair needs.

The goldilocks products for 2c hair are lighter weight, but with enough power to tame frizz and keep those waves controlled and defined. Finger-comb products through hair, and always use a heat protectant if using a blow-dryer or heating tool to protect your stunning 2c hair, or air dry to give those waves a break from the heat. If using a blow dryer, use a diffuser with the heat on low. Gently push your waves up toward the root while you dry to give yourself even more volume – not that you need it.

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.

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