Understanding Hair Typing: A Holistic Approach to Loving Your Texture
Learn about the hair typing system, its origins, and how to embrace your unique curls, coils, and waves. In this article, we’ll explore the hair typing system, its benefits, its limitations, and how to embrace your unique texture without falling into the comparison trap.
Have you ever scrolled through social media, comparing your curls to someone else’s, and wondered why your hair doesn’t look the same? You’re not alone. Many of us have fallen into the trap of comparing our hair to others’, especially with the rise of hair typing systems like the one popularized by André Walker, Oprah Winfrey’s longtime hairstylist. While hair typing can be a helpful tool for understanding your curls, coils, or waves, it’s not the whole story.
In this article, we’ll explore the hair typing system, its origins, its benefits, and its limitations. More importantly, we’ll discuss how to embrace your unique texture without falling into the comparison trap. Whether you’re new to your natural hair journey or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you celebrate the beauty of your hair—exactly as it is.
What Is Hair Typing?
The André Walker Hair Typing System is one of the most widely used methods for categorizing hair textures. It breaks hair down into four main types, with subcategories based on curl intensity:
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Type 1: Straight hair with no curl pattern.
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Type 2: Wavy hair that forms a gentle "S" shape.
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Type 3: Curly hair with defined spirals or ringlets.
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Type 4: Coily hair with tight curls or zig-zag patterns.
Each type is further divided into A, B, and C subcategories to describe the intensity of the curl or wave. For example:
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Type 3A: Loose, shiny curls.
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Type 4C: Tight, densely packed coils.
This system can be useful for identifying your curl pattern and guiding your hair care routine. For instance, Type 3 curls might benefit from lightweight moisturizers, while Type 4 coils often need richer creams and oils to stay hydrated.
The Limitations of Hair Typing
While hair typing can be a helpful starting point, it’s not without its flaws. Here are a few limitations to keep in mind:
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It Can Lead to Comparison: Social media is flooded with images of "perfect" curls and coils, often labeled with specific hair types. This can make it easy to feel like your hair doesn’t measure up.
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It Doesn’t Account for Individuality: Hair typing focuses solely on curl pattern, ignoring other important factors like texture, density, and porosity.
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It Can Feel Exclusionary: The system has been criticized for perpetuating biases, with Type 4 hair often being unfairly stigmatized or underrepresented.
The truth is, no two heads of hair are exactly alike. Your curls, coils, or waves are as unique as you are—and that’s something to celebrate.
A Holistic Approach to Hair Care
To truly understand and care for your hair, it’s important to look beyond hair typing. Here are three key factors to consider:
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Texture: This refers to the thickness of each individual strand. Hair can be fine, medium, or coarse.
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Density: This describes how many strands of hair you have per square inch. Density can be low, medium, or high.
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Porosity: This measures how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. Porosity can be low, medium, or high.
Brands like Aveda emphasize this holistic approach, and for good reason. By understanding your hair’s unique combination of texture, density, and porosity, you can create a personalized hair care routine that works for you.
Embracing Your Unique Texture
So, how can you learn to love your hair—exactly as it is? Here are a few tips:
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Celebrate Small Wins: Did your curls look amazing today? Take a moment to appreciate them!
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Avoid Comparison: Remember, social media is a highlight reel. Your hair is beautiful in its own way.
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Experiment: Try new styles, products, and techniques to discover what makes you feel confident.
At Nourish & Love Co., we believe your hair is a crown you never take off. Whether your curls are loose and bouncy or tight and springy, they’re a reflection of your unique beauty.
Hair typing can be a helpful tool, but it’s not the be-all and end-all of textured hair care. By focusing on your hair’s unique needs—and embracing its individuality—you can create a routine that nourishes and loves every strand.
Ready to dive deeper into your hair care journey? Check out our Holistic Hair Journal, designed to help you embrace and care for your unique texture. And don’t forget to explore our textured hair care products, crafted to celebrate every coil, curl, and wave.
Your hair is uniquely yours. Wear it proudly.
Explore our textured hair care products, crafted to nourish and love every strand.
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