2 Steps to Unlock The Perfect Hair Routine

Maria Elena Trinidad
Nov 13, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Nov 16, 2024

Understanding Your Curl Type

Have you ever felt as if you're living in a never-ending cycle of bad hair days? Struggling with frizz or just can't find the perfect hair routine If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, YOU are not alone! Whether you have tight coils or loose waves or anything in between, having the right routine makes a huge difference in your natural hair.

The first step to unlocking the ideal hair routine is understanding the unique hair texture growing from your scalp. A hair chart created by Oprah Winfrey's hair stylist, Andre Charter comes in handy.

Type 1: Dries straight without a curl

Type 2 (Wavy Hair): Dries with a slight curve, S shape, has a subtle wave that adds body.

Type 3 (Curly Hair) : Dries with a defined curl or ringlets, they are springy, well defined curls.

Type 4 (Coily Hair) : Dries forming tight curls or spirals.

This was created to help us understand and categorize the different textures and curl patterns of our hair. The goal of this system is to help us choose the right products, styling techniques and hair routine for our specific hair types. When you understand better your hair, whether its 2A hair, 4A hair or somewhere in between, makes all the difference.

If you need a bit more help to identify your curl pattern, you can also try this online quiz. https://www.beautycon.com/quiz You'll answer some questions designed to help you identify your curl pattern.

Once you have figured out which category your curl type falls into, you're ready to move on to the second step, choosing the right curly hair products.

Got Type 2 - Wavy Hair? Here's what you need to do.

Wavy Hair loves products that define waves without adding extra weight or causing frizz.

Shampoo & Conditioner: A moisturizing sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner will help enhance your natural waves without weighing them down.
Leave-In Conditioner: Lightweight leave-in conditioners or sprays can moisturize hair without weighing it down and flattening hair.
Styling Products: Light curl creams or mousses are good to define waves. Sea salt spray can also enhance the wave pattern.
Finishing Products: Anti-frizz serums or light oils to seal in moisture and reduce frizz.

Got Type 3 - Curly Hair? Here's what you need to do.

Curly hair needs moisture and frizz control to keep curls defined and healthy.

Shampoo & Conditioner: A moisturizing sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner will help prevent dryness.
Deep Conditioner: A hydrating hair mask for moisture and curl retention.
Leave-In Conditioner: Lightweight leave-in conditioners help detangle and hydrate without weighing curls down.
Styling Products: Curl creams, mousses or gels are good to define curls. Preferably alcohol free gels and mousses.
Finishing Products: Use light oils or butters to seal in moisture and reduce frizz.

Got Type 4 - Coily Hair? Here's what you need to do.

Coily and Kinky hair types are prone to dryness and need intense hydration and moisture retention needs moisture and frizz control to keep curls defined and healthy.

Shampoo & Conditioner: A gentle, sulfate free shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils.
Deep Conditioner: A hydrating hair mask for hydration.
Leave-In Conditioner: Thick, creamy leave-in conditioners help keep coils moisturized.
Styling Products: Butters, creams or gels are good to define coils and adding hold. Heavy creams and custards help with styling while maintaining moisture.
Finishing Products: Use heavier oils like castor oil or shea butter to lock in moisture and reduce shrinkage.

Now that you have a foundation for understanding your curl type and the products that will help you have a good hair routine, you, my curly hair friend, are ready to take your hair care to the next level.