Andre Walker’s hair typing system categorizes different hair textures. Type 4 represents kinky hair, including corkscrew curls and dense coils that require extra moisture. Protective styles like ponytails, Upart wigs, and crochet styles help maintain the curliness of kinky coily hair. Natural Girl Wigs offers affordable ponytails and wigs with these textures.
Type 1 – Straight Hair
Straight hair may not naturally curl but requires proper care and styling techniques. Straight hair tends to become oily faster, so regular shampooing is essential to prevent greasy-looking locks. Papilla Scalp’s Minty Clean Shampoo removes sebum buildup without leaving residue on straight hair.
Types 3 and 4 – Kinky Hair Types
Types 3 and 4 are common among Black (African American) people. These types feature tight coils or defined ringlets, dense thin strands packed tightly, and potential shrinkage issues. Heat protection products should be used when styling these hair types, and hot styling tools should be minimized to prevent damage.
Type 2 – Wavy Hair
Type 2 hair is a gentler version of curly locks with loose S-shaped waves. It falls between straight and corkscrew curls in terms of texture. This hair type is less oily than straight hair but can experience frizz on humid days. Anti-frizz products like Orlando Pita Well Behaved Anti-Frizz Cream Serum work well for reducing frizz. Proper moisturization using hydrating conditioners, deep conditioning masks, and leave-in conditioners is necessary to prevent tangling and maintain healthy curls and waves.
Type 3 – Corkscrew Curls
Type 3 hair is characterized by tight corkscrew curls that create natural volume. Humidity and frizz can negatively affect this hair type. Sulfate-free shampoo should be used to keep the hair hydrated, and mousse or styling cream can be layered into wet hair to enhance curls. Type 5C hair should avoid excessive heat styling to maintain curl integrity. Shea butter or similar moisture-boosting products are recommended for this dry hair type.
Type 4 – Coily Hair
Type 4 coily hair is identified by tight, dense spirals with natural lift. It can be categorized into 4a, 4b, and 4c curl patterns. 4a hair has long crochet needle-like coils that may suffer from dryness due to limited sebum distribution. 4b coils are smaller with angular bends, making them more fragile and susceptible to frizz. Thicker emollients like shea butter, deep-conditioning hair masks, and oil-rich mists help combat dryness and hydrate the curls throughout the day.
