Find Out Your Curl Type

Take your curl routine to the next level!

4c, 3a, 2b? If you're into curl care, you've probably come across these categories. Embrace your unique curl pattern by finding the hair routine that suits you. To help, this post explains how hair textures are grouped into different types and shows how this can help you better understand what your curls need.  

The system of grouping hair textures into types (1, 2a to 2c, 3a to 3c, 4a to 4c) was developed by hairstylist Andre Walker. Right from the start: we clearly distance ourselves from any judgement that one hair type is better or worse than another. Every hair type has its own strengths. Learn to understand and appreciate them!  

In line with our expertise, we focus on hair types 2 to 4 .

Type 2: boost your curl definition

Hair type 2a to 2c is wavy to slightly curly hair that loses relatively little length and has less volume than types 3 and 4. Since the curls tend to fall out, the focus of the curl routine is usually on boosting definition.  

A suitable haircut can make a big difference here, so be sure to find a hairdresser who really knows curly hair. Also make sure to use products that don't weigh your hair down. Ideally, choose a shampoo that doesn't dry out your hair and already supports definition while you wash (Afrolocke Liquid Shampoo). You can also define your curl pattern with our Curl Styling Gel .  

Type 3: give your curls plenty of moisture  

Hair type 3a to 3c has large to medium curls with lots of definition. It also has medium volume and „shrinkage“, which makes hair look shorter than it really is.  

The curly structure makes it harder for the scalp's natural oils to travel along the hair, so type 3 hair tends to be dry. That's why a pre-poo treatment with a hair oil before washing is a good idea. After washing, always use a rich conditioner  and the Afrolocke Leave-In, which supports your natural curl pattern, adds moisture and doesn't weigh hair down. At night you can tie your hair up in a pineapple. Ideally with a satin scrunchie that doesn't draw extra moisture from your hair.

Type 4: protect your hair from breakage

Tight, rather small curls belong to hair type 4. The hair is dense, has lots of volume and shrinks a lot. The tight curl pattern tends to be dry and is vulnerable to outside influences, which makes the hair more fragile. So give your hair plenty of moisture and seal it in with our Afrolocke Hair Oil. About every two weeks you can deep condition with a rich conditioner . At night you can protect your curls with a satin pillowcase or a satin bonnet. Protective styles let you give your hair a break now and then.  

Thoroughly cleansing hair and scalp is important with this rather dense hair type. Still, use a mild shampoo that doesn't dry out your hair. Massage your scalp thoroughly, and if needed, wash your hair in sections and repeat the wash.  

Last but not least, the Growing Fro by the non profit association Gurlz with Curlz showed how wonderfully individual and different afro hair and curls are.  

Our products are generally suitable for all curl types. Read our blog post on this: Why you should know your hair's porosity. 

Tip: on each product's shop page you'll find how to use it for each porosity.