Your Guide to Hair Texture Types
by Ismail Ali
·
Your Natural Hair Texture & Care Routine
Are you wondering, What’s my hair texture? Whether your strands are straight, wavy, curly, or coily, understanding your hair type is the key to choosing the best haircare routine. Many people with textured hair have been told their hair is "unmanageable," but the truth is—your hair is beautiful, versatile, and deserves proper care.
At Alié Moisture, we believe in celebrating natural hair textures with premium, moisture-rich products designed for your unique needs. This comprehensive guide will help you identify your hair type, improve your haircare routine, and achieve your healthiest hair yet.
What Determines Hair Texture?
Your hair texture isn’t just about curl patterns—it’s influenced by several key factors:
-
Hair Follicle Shape – The shape of your follicle determines if your hair grows straight, wavy, curly, or coily. Round follicles produce straight hair, while oval or oblong follicles create waves or curls.
-
Density – This refers to how many hair follicles you have per square inch of scalp. Higher density means fuller, voluminous hair, while lower density may need extra styling for added volume.
-
Porosity – Hair porosity affects how your strands absorb and retain moisture. To test your porosity, place a strand in water:
-
High porosity hair absorbs water quickly and sinks.
-
Low porosity hair repels water and floats.
-
Medium porosity hair hovers in the middle.
Understanding these factors will help you create the best haircare regimen for lasting hydration and strength.
The Four Main Hair Types & Best Haircare Practices
Straight Hair (Type 1) – Sleek & Smooth
Straight hair naturally reflects light, making it appear glossy. However, it can become oily quickly due to the scalp's sebum easily traveling down the strands.
Subtypes:
-
1A – Fine, silky, and struggles to hold curls.
-
1B – Slightly thicker with some natural volume.
-
1C – Straight with a hint of wave and added texture.
Care Tips:
-
Use a lightweight, sulfate-free shampoo to combat excess oil.
-
Dry shampoo helps absorb oil and extend time between washes.
-
Avoid heavy conditioners that can weigh hair down.
Wavy Hair (Type 2) – Soft & Textured
Wavy hair forms natural “S” shapes and sits between straight and curly. It can be prone to frizz but maintains a nice balance of volume and shine.
Subtypes:
-
2A – Loose waves with minimal volume.
-
2B – More defined waves with slight frizz.
-
2C – Strong waves bordering on curls.
Care Tips:
-
Use lightweight, hydrating shampoos and conditioners to balance moisture.
-
Enhance waves with mousse or curl-enhancing sprays.
-
Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz and breakage.
Curly Hair (Type 3) – Defined & Bouncy
Curly hair forms well-defined ringlets that need extra moisture to prevent dryness and frizz.
Subtypes:
-
3A – Loose curls that can stretch into waves.
-
3B – Springy curls, about the size of a Sharpie marker.
-
3C – Tighter, voluminous curls.
Care Tips:
-
Use sulfate-free, hydrating shampoos and deep conditioners.
-
Apply curl creams or leave-in conditioners for extra definition.
-
Protect curls with a silk bonnet or pineapple method overnight.
Coily Hair (Type 4) – Tight Curls & Maximum Volume
Coily hair has the tightest curl pattern and is the most prone to shrinkage and dryness. It requires deep hydration to maintain strength and length.
Subtypes:
-
4A – Soft, well-defined coils.
-
4B – Z-shaped strands with a fluffy texture.
-
4C – Densely packed, tight coils with minimal definition.
Care Tips:
-
Deep condition weekly and use hydrating oils like argan or almond oil.
-
Protective styles (twists, braids, bantu knots) help retain moisture.
-
Wash hair once a week and use leave-in conditioners regularly.
Best Hair Products for Your Texture
No matter your hair type, proper hydration is key to healthy, beautiful hair. If you struggle with dryness, frizz, or breakage, the issue isn’t your hair—it’s the ingredients in your products! Many commercial haircare products contain harsh chemicals that strip natural moisture.
At Alié Moisture, we use organic, moisture-rich formulas tailored for textured hair. Our sulfate-free shampoos, deep conditioners, and nutrient-rich styling products help keep curls, coils, and waves nourished and vibrant.
Why Choose Alié Moisture?
-
Hydrating & Nourishing: Our formulas are designed to deeply moisturize dry, textured hair.
-
Organic Ingredients: No sulfates, silicones, alcohols, parabens, or artificial additives.
-
Tailored for All Hair Types: Find the perfect match for your unique hair texture and porosity.
Ready to transform your haircare routine? Explore our premium, moisture-rich collections and bring out the best in your natural hair!