Type 2 Hair Care Routine Tips & Products

Type 2 hair, often called wavy hair, lies between straight and curly hair. It has a range of patterns, from loose loops to large S-shaped curls. The waves are close to the scalp and increase in waviness as they move away from the ears. Type 2 hair can be smooth, medium or coarse in texture and is less prone to dryness than other curl types. This is due to the looser curls‘ ability to facilitate the movement of scalp oil along the hair shaft. Type 2 hair typically has less volume at the root.

2a Soft Waves

Type 2a hair has the loosest wave pattern of its counterparts. It presents a subtle, tousled texture with only a handful of gentle bends. Rooted in straightness, it gradually transitions into a soft S-shaped wave towards the mid-lengths and ends. Remarkably malleable, type 2a hair is often on the thinner side and can struggle with volume. To create a defined wave, type 2a hair may require more styling techniques than other hair types. Due to its fineness, it is prone to frizz and breakage.

2b Wavy

Type 2b hair is defined by its more pronounced S-shaped waves, which are most noticeable from the mid-lengths to the ends. The roots lie relatively flat against the scalp while the ends wrap around the distinctive S-shaped pattern. Straightening 2b hair is more challenging than straightening 2a hair, but less so than straightening 2c hair. As hair texture tends to vary across the scalp, sections of 2b hair may coexist with 2a and 2c waves. Type 2b hair may succumb to the weight of heavier styling products and the defined waves may not last all day.

2c Deep Waves

Type 2c hair has thicker waves that are often mistaken for small curls. The S-curves start at the root, creating volume at the roots and often leading to frizz. It is the type of wave that resembles curly hair, so if you have ever wondered whether you have wavy or curly hair, you probably have 2c hair. The defined waves resemble an S or corkscrew shape and the waves can vary in shape.