How To Tell Which Hair Type You Have The Ultimate Guide

If you're trying to figure out which hair type you have, you're not alone. Many people struggle with understanding their hair type and how to properly care for it. In this guide, we'll walk you through the different types of hair and how to tell which one you have. We'll also provide tips and tricks for taking care of your hair, so you can have healthy, beautiful locks.

Table of Contents

• Types of Hair
• How to Determine Your Hair Type
• Step-by-Step Guide
• Tips for Hair Care
• FAQs

Types of Hair

There are four main types of hair: straight, wavy, curly, and coily. Straight hair is the most common type and is characterized by a lack of curl or wave. Wavy hair has a slight curl, while curly hair has a more noticeable curl. Coily hair, also known as kinky hair, has very tight curls or coils.

Within each hair type, there are also different subtypes based on the size of the curl or wave. For example, within the curly hair type, there are subtypes ranging from loose curls to tight coils. Understanding your specific hair type and subtype will help you choose the best products and styling techniques.

How to Determine Your Hair Type

Determining your hair type is a simple process that involves looking at the texture and pattern of your hair. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Examine Your Hair

Start by examining your hair in its natural state. This means no styling products or heat styling tools. Look at the texture of your hair and determine whether it is straight, wavy, curly, or coily.

Step 2: Check the Curl Pattern

Next, check the curl pattern of your hair. If you have wavy, curly, or coily hair, it's important to determine the size of your curls or coils. Here's how:

• If you have wavy hair, your curls will be loose and have a slight S-shape.
• If you have curly hair, your curls will be more defined and have a spiral or ringlet shape.
• If you have coily hair, your curls will be tightly coiled and have a zig-zag or spring shape.

Step 3: Check the Thickness

Finally, check the thickness of your hair. Hair thickness is determined by the diameter of each individual strand. Here are the different types of hair thickness:

• Fine hair: The diameter of each strand is small and often described as "thin."
• Medium hair: The diameter of each strand is neither thick nor thin.
• Thick hair: The diameter of each strand is large and often described as "coarse."

Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you determine your hair type:

1. Start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
2. Let your hair air dry without using any styling products or heat styling tools.
3. Examine your hair in its natural state and determine whether it is straight, wavy, curly, or coily.
4. Check the curl pattern of your hair to determine the size of your curls or coils.
5. Check the thickness of your hair by measuring the diameter of each strand.

Tips for Hair Care

Once you've determined your hair type, it's important to take care of your hair properly. Here are some tips:

• Choose products specifically designed for your hair type. For example, if you have curly hair, use products that help define and enhance your curls.
• Avoid using heat styling tools too often, as they can damage your hair.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair, especially if you have curly or coily hair.
• Protect your hair from the sun and harsh weather conditions by wearing a hat or using a protective hair product.

FAQs

Q: Can my hair type change over time?

A: Yes, your hair type can change due to hormonal changes, aging, and other factors. It's important to regularly reassess your hair type and adjust your hair care routine accordingly.

Q: Do I need to use different products for each subtype within my hair type?

A: Not necessarily. While some people may find that using different products for each subtype within their hair type is helpful, others may be able to use the same products for all subtypes within their hair type.

Q: How often should I wash my hair?

A: This depends on your hair type and personal preference. Some people may need to wash their hair every day, while others may only need to wash it once a week. Experiment with different washing schedules to find what works best for your hair.

Q: Can I use the same styling techniques for all hair types?

A: No, different hair types require different styling techniques. For example, if you have curly hair, you may need to use a diffuser when blow-drying your hair to enhance your curls. It's important to research and experiment with different styling techniques to find what works best for your hair type.

Now that you know how to tell which hair type you have, you can take the necessary steps to care for your hair properly. Remember to be patient and experiment with different products and techniques until you find what works best for your hair.