We get it, establishing your perfect haircare system isn't the easiest of tasks. There's a lot to consider: hair density, hair porosity, hair length, hair colour, hair condition, the list goes on and it doesn't stop at shampoos and conditioners. Theperfect haircare routine takes a 360 approach and covers all the bases, but if all that has left you flustered we've got some advice. The best way to start developing your perfect routine may be as simple as determining your hair type.
The most relied upon method of establishing this is Andre Walker's Hair Typing System, which looks at texture and the natural shape or pattern of hair strands. Defined in the 90s by Oprah Winfrey’s hairstylist Andre, the system is a classification chart that has helped to map out four different types of hair, each with its own set of three subcategories (a, b and c) which indicate the intensity of the hair type.
Simply put: Type 1 hair is straight, Type 2 is wavy, Type 3 is curly, and Type 4 is coily. Pinning down your hair type will help you to determine the specific needs of your unique hair, once this is in hand you'll be able to select the right products and techniques that will work for you. Now, we're not saying this is the be all and end all, but classifying your hair is certainly a great starting point which can act as a guide for a more robust system that will aid in the journey to healthy, flourishing hair.
How To Determine Your Hair Type
Type 1 hair is straight and generally curl resistant. It tends to be fine and fragile but can also be corse and poofy. It packs shine thanks to the oil that travels with ease from your scalp down to your strands.
Type 2 hair is wavy and features a loose ‘S’ pattern. It can range from thin to thick in density, and can boast anything from beachy waves to fluffy, undefined bends. It's one of the more easier to style types which will hold the look you end up choosing.
Type 3 hair is curly and has a defined curl pattern. Think: loose, bouncy or tight, springy curls, either way if your hair features this voluminous pattern you're on the curly spectrum. This type usually has a mix of curl textures and will be drier.
Type 4 hair is coily. Defined as kinky hair, this type features a tight, zig-zag curl pattern, ranging from compactly coiled to kinky. Type 4 hair is dry and fragile, and will require a gentle hand with plenty of moisture.
If you need a visual aid to help you determine your hair type, scroll our gallery below.
Examples Of Hair Types
Hair Types - 2023
1 of 7Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian is a hair chameleon, but this look, which saw her go back to her natural dark lengths, is a classic example of Type 1 straight hair.
2 of 7Hailey Bieber
Hailey Bieber's bob haircut was the talk of early 2023, the slight undone texture of her hair means that while it's Type 1 Straight, it's on the spectrum and may well flirt between the B and C subcategories.
3 of 7Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez is a volumised hair queen and this look is no different. Her subtle, glossy 'S' waves mean her hair pictured here sits in the Type 2 Waves category.
4 of 7Shaikra
Shakira's beachy waves are a clear example of how Type 2 Waves can carry a range of different curl patterns.
5 of 7Lizzo
Lizzo's wet look was brought to life with her tight curls, which showcase exactly what you would expect from a Type 3 Curl pattern.
6 of 7Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross knows good hair and how to take care of it, look no further than her haircare line Pattern for the proof. Her tight, fluffy coils sit in the Type 4 Coily category .
7 of 7Yara Shahidi
Yara Shahidi's stunning coily updo boasts a Type 4 Coiley texture and we love how her tight ringlets frame her face.