Let’s be real: trying to figure out your curly hair types without a map is like trying to find a speakeasy in the dark—confusing, a little frustrating and likely to end in a frizz induced meltdown. We’ve all been there, staring in the mirror wondering why one side of our head looks like a beachy dream while the other looks like it had a fight with a socket.
At Vogue Vocal, we believe your hair is your crown but if that crown is tangled, we’ve got work to do. Understanding the curly hair category isn’t just about labels; it’s about liberation. Whether you’re rocking effortless 2a curly hair or the gravity defying glory of Type 4, knowing your curl type is the “secret sauce” to 2026 hair goals. Forget the generic one-size-fits-all advice; we’re diving deep into the different curl types to give your strands the main-character energy they deserve.
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the hair curl chart, let’s talk biology (don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz). Your type of curls is actually decided before the hair even leaves your scalp. It’s all about the follicle. A round follicle gives you straight hair, while an oval or flat follicle gives you those gorgeous bends.
Most of us aren’t just one curl type; you might have a mix of 2c curly hair at the nape and something entirely different on top. As our friend and stylist Vernon François puts it, identifying your pattern is a wet-hair job. Catch those strands when they’re sopping to see the true kinds of curly hair you’re working with.
Type 2 hair is the cool, laid-back cousin of the curly world. It’s not quite straight, but it’s not quite a ringlet either. These waves are fluid and have a signature “S” pattern.
The 2a hair type is the ultimate “I woke up like this” look. It’s fine, easy to style and can be straightened with a literal flick of the wrist. The danger here? Weight. If you douse 2a curly hair in heavy oils, it will go limp faster than a bad date. At Vogue Vocal, we suggest sticking to airy, water-based mousses. You want volume at the roots, not a grease slick.
If your hair lies flat at the top but gets wavy from the mid lengths down, you’re in the 2b curly hair club. These strands are thicker than 2A and have a bit more attitude. To keep these waves from looking like a frizzy mess, reach for the texturizing mists with rice protein. Pro tip: Use a diffuser in 2026 to keep that volume high and the frizz low.
Type 2c hair is where things start to get serious. These waves are thick, prone to frizz and start right from the root. Honestly, 2C is the bridge between a wave and a full blown curl. We recommend a sulfate-free co-wash to keep the moisture in. Vogue Vocal’s take? Don’t be afraid to layer. A leave-in conditioner under a foam is the combo you didn’t know you needed.
When people think of the type curly category, they usually picture Type 3. These are the buoyant, springy corkscrews that have a life of their own.
Type 3A curls are large and loopy—think the diameter of sidewalk chalk. They have a natural shine but a massive ego—if you touch them while they’re drying, they will reward you with a frizz halo. Our advice? Apply your cream, scrunch, and then hands off.
3B curly hair types consist of tighter ringlets, about the size of a Sharpie. This texture tends to be on the drier side because the natural oils from your scalp have a harder time traveling down the spiral. Humectants are your best friend here. Look for ingredients like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid to trap moisture where it belongs.
3C hair is densely packed and full of volume. These curls are the size of a pencil or a straw. Because they’re so tight, they love to clump. To get that perfect definition, apply your products to sopping wet hair. It’s messy, but the results are worth the puddle on your bathroom floor.
Coily hair is often called Afro-textured or kinky, and it is arguably the most versatile curly hair category on the planet. It’s beautiful, it’s bold, and it’s undeniably thirsty.
4A hair features dense, springy “S” patterns. Think Megan Thee Stallion levels of fabulous. These coils need constant hydration to stay pliable. At Vogue Vocal, we swear by the “wash-and-go” method for 4A, but you’ve got to keep those sectioning clips handy. A mix of leave-in moisturizer and a styling cream will keep your coils soft without that “crunchy” feel.
Instead of a curve, 4B hair bends in sharp angles like the letter “Z.” This type is all about volume and can be shaped into architectural masterpieces. Because the angles are so sharp, the hair can be fragile. Palm-rolling or shingling is the way to go here to ensure every strand is coated in moisture.
4C hair is similar to 4B but with even tighter zig-zags and significant shrinkage—we’re talking 75% or more! But don’t let the shrinkage fool you; the length is there, it’s just tucked away. This curl type is the most prone to dryness, so deep conditioning once a week isn’t a luxury; it’s a requirement. Sleep on a silk pillowcase or wear a bonnet—cotton is the enemy of 4C moisture.
Listen, at Vogue Vocal, we’ve spent years decoding the kinds of curly hair types, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: your hair is as unique as your thumbprint. Whether you’re rocking 2a hair type or 4c coils, the goal is health, not perfection. Embrace the shrinkage, love the frizz (it’s just hair trying to reach for moisture!) and for the love of all things stylish, stop comparing your Type 2 waves to someone else’s Type 4 coils.
Your hair is a journey, not a destination. Now go grab that sulfate free shampoo and let your curls live their best life.
How do I find my hair curl chart match?
The easiest way is to look at your hair when it’s wet and product-free. Match the shape of your strands—waves (Type 2), curls (Type 3), or coils (Type 4)—to the diameter examples (chalk, pencil, needle).
Can my curl type change over time?
Absolutely. Hormones, heat damage, and even the 2026 climate can shift your pattern. If you’ve been heavy on the flat iron, your 2c curly hair might look more like a limp 2a. Give it some TLC and it’ll bounce back.
Why is my hair wavy on top but curly underneath?
This is totally normal! Most people have a “hair cocktail” on their head. You might have type 2 hair near your face and Type 3 at the back. Treat each section according to its needs—lightweight products for the waves and richer creams for the curls.
Should I brush my curly hair?
Only when it’s wet and slippery with conditioner! Brushing dry curls is a one-way ticket to Frizz City. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle gently.
What is the best way to dry my curls for volume?
The diffuser is your secret weapon. It disperses airflow so your curl patterns aren’t blown out of shape, giving you that 2026 “big hair, don’t care” volume.
2b curly hair types usually starts its “S” wave at the mid-lengths, leaving the crown flatter. Type 2c hair is much more textured, with waves starting right at the root and a thicker, more frizz-prone strand.
Yes, and most people do! It’s very common to have type 2 hair around the hairline and more defined type 3 curls in the back or crown area.
Good taste never goes out of style! Mehreen Hassan at Vogue Vocal is as vocal about all time tried and tested beauty secrets as it can get! The real deal behind a well put together look is the confidence that glows and shines from within! Mehreen is your beauty guru with the nature’s secrets, DIY skincare, and all the trending Beauty products! Let’s learn the dos and don’ts of a skincare routine and let your beautiful personality shine through!
