Every parent with a curly-haired kid eventually asks:
“Okay, but what type of curls are THESE?”
Curl types aren’t about vanity — they help you pick routines, products, and expectations that don’t end in tears.
The Three Curl Families
Waves (2A–2C)
Soft, beachy, laid-back.
Prone to frizz, not drama.
Curls (3A–3C)
Defined spirals.
Bounce for days. Needs hydration like a houseplant.
Coils (4A–4C)
Tight, gorgeous, springy coils.
Shrinkage royalty. Loves rich creams + oils.
How to Identify Your Child’s Hair Type
Try this:
- Wash hair
- Condition + detangle
- Let it dry naturally
- Observe the pattern
Ask:
Are the curls loose? Tight? Zig-zag? Spirals? Mostly waves?
Porosity: The Secret Factor
High porosity = dries fast, absorbs fast
Low porosity = product sits on top
Medium = the most cooperative
Test:
Put a clean strand in a glass of water.
- Sinks fast → high
- Floats → low
- Slowly sinks → medium
Choosing Products Based on Type
- Waves: light conditioners, spray gels
- Curls: curl creams, medium gels
- Coils: rich butters, heavier creams, leave-ins
Why Kids Often Have “Mixed Patterns”
A child may have:
- loose curls in front
- tight coils in back
- waves underneath
Totally normal. Work with the pattern, not against it.
