Hair Basics #2: What is Type 3 Natural Hair?

Our the previous post covered the basics of afro textured hair. This time, let’s take a deeper dive into type 3 hair and its subcategories: 3A, 3B, and 3C.

What Does Type 3 Hair Look Like?

Type 3 hair is generally the softer, looser version of African American hair. It is more voluminous but also challenging to manage the straying curls.

Type 3A Hair

Your natural hair is 3A if:

• Your curls are larger and bounce loosely when you move your head
• Your hair generally looks shiny and feels smooth to the touch
• Your strands are finer and not densely packed, and volume doesn’t come easily
• Your hair gets frizzy without moisture and wavier in humid weather
• Your braids tend to loosen on their own

Type 3B Hair

Your hair is 3B if:

• Your curls are tighter and more springy
• Your hair generally looks fuller and more dense despite defined curls
• Your strands are thicker and more coarse to the touch
• Your hair typically looks “full-bodied”
• Your hair shrinks significantly when wet

Type 3C Hair

Your have 3C hair if:

• Your curls take a corkscrew shape
• Your strands form a clear “S” or “Z” pattern when moisturized, but more tightly coiled when wet
• Your hair is always thick and full, but also more fragile
• Your hair gets coarser and frizzier when dry

Hair Care Tips for Type 3 Natural Hair

Type 3 natural hair ranges from super soft, wavy curls to tighter, denser hair that shrinks significantly when wet. So, how do you embrace and style black natural hair if it’s type 3?

1.    Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

Choose hair care products that add moisture to your hair because curls can break easily when they dry out.

2.    Use gentle shampoos

Wash your hair regularly in cool or cold water using a gentle, natural shampoo. curly hair tends to hold onto product, dirt, and sweat, but take a little time washing it with a sulphate or silicone-free shampoo.

3.    Detangle your hair with your fingers first

Don’t be tempted to run a comb through your type 3 hair when it’s wet. Instead, towel-dry the excess water, separate the curls gently with your fingers, and use a comb and brush to style it.

4.    Trim your curls

Curly hair gets matted on the ends and feels heavier as a result. A regular trim keeps your hair loose from root to tip and prevents breakage.

5.    Wrap your hair overnight

Type 3 hair gets tangled and knotted quite easily, especially if you sleep with your hair loose. Tie a silk or satin scarf over your head before bed to reduce friction, retain moisture, and have an easier time with styling when you wake up.

Start Your Type 3 Hair Care Journey Right

Afro textured hair needs a little extra TLC to unlock its full flawless potential. If yours is Type 3A, 3B, or 3C, prioritize moisturizing and gentle hair treatments to make you look and feel fantastic.