The typology system was created by Oprah’s hairstylist Andre Walker, author of Andre Talks Hair. Lets see how he explained each hair type.
Type 1: Straight
The main characteristics of type 1 hair are:
- Hangs loose and free.
- Sleek.
- Shiny (reflects light easily).
- Hard to damage.
- Very hard to curl.
- Easily becomes oily.
Type 2 (A, B or C): Wavy
Type 2 lies between straight and curly hair. There are three sub categories: 2A, 2B, and 2C. They all form different “S” shaped curves or curls.
- 2A is thinner than the other two forms; as a matter of fact, 2A hair is fine. Strands have just a hint of a bend in them. S-waves are loose and stretched out throughout the hair. This type can easily be styled straight or curly.
- 2B is a little thicker, with S-waves being shorter, more distinct.
- 2C is thick and coarse, with very distinct S-waves.
- Both 2B and 2C are more resistant to styling.
- Wavy hair is more susceptible to frizz.
- Has little bounce.
- It has more shine than curly hair, but is less than straight.
Type 3 (A, B or C): Curly
Type 3 hair has a much tighter curl pattern. It is categorized by 3A, 3B and 3C. All three subcategories form a definite “S”. The only difference is in the size of the curl.
- 3A hair type has a looser curl pattern – spiral curls.
- 3B hair has a tighter curl pattern – ringlets.
- 3C hair has a very tight curly look – corkscrews.
- Wavy hair has a lot of body.
- Can be styled in different styles.
- Does not have lots of sheen.
- Prone to damage.
- Easily frizzes in the humid climate.
Type 4 (A, B or C): Kinky/Coily
Most African-American women have this hair type. It has extremely defined curls which are tightly coiled and form a “Z” shape. There are also three varieties: 4A, 4B and 4C.
- 4A has a tightly coiled “S” pattern to it.
- 4B is more wiry with a zig-zag pattern, while 4C has less of a pattern than 4A & B.
- Kinky hair is driest of all types & needs lots of moisture.
- It is most fragile of all other types.
- Can be styled in so many different syles.
- It breaks very easily.
