Find the Best Products for Every Curl Type
When it comes to styling textured hair, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. From loose waves to tight coils, each curl type has unique needs and understanding those differences is key to getting your natural curl journey right.
To help you find the best match for your specific needs, we’ve broken down three major types of hair (wavy, curly, coily) and shared expert-recommended curly hair products tailored to each category. These are the products the pros reach for again and again, because they work.
Type 2: Wavy hair
2A – Subtle Wave, Light Texture
How it looks: Type 2A hair is fine and straight at the roots, with a soft wave starting mid-length. It often lacks volume and can easily be weighed down.
What it needs: Lightweight styling is essential here. Look for products that add volume and texture without leaving residue. Sea salt sprays and light mists can work wonders for movement.
Pro pick: Maria Nila Style & Finish Salty Mist - adds texture without stiffness, perfect for creating effortless beachy waves.
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2C – Coarse Waves with Hints of Curl
How it looks: The waves are more defined and tend to start closer to the roots, sometimes forming loose curls. Hair is thicker and more prone to frizz.
What it needs: This curl type benefits from curl-enhancing creams, anti-humidity products, and moisture-rich formulas that help define the curl pattern. Avoid sulphates to maintain hydration.
Pro pick: Osmo Curl Spray Curl Enhancer lightweight yet effective, it helps boost definition and tame frizz without heaviness.
Type 3: Curly Hair
3A – Loose, Shiny Curls
How it looks: Think big, bouncy curls with a smooth, shiny finish. Type 3A curls are typically well-shaped but can lose definition in humidity or with dryness.
What it needs: To preserve curl shape and shine, choose moisturising curl creams, defining gels, and leave-in conditioners.
Pro pick: Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS Bounty Balm Rich Curl Cream designed to lock in moisture and provide frizz control while keeping curls soft and springy.
3B – Tighter Ringlets, More Volume
How it looks: These curls are smaller and more densely packed than 3A, with a slightly coarser texture. They’re naturally voluminous but prone to dryness.
What it needs: Regular deep conditioning and curl-defining creams are essential. Hydration is key to keeping ringlets bouncy and frizz-free.
Pro pick: Redken Styling Hydrating Curl Cream a rich, professional formula that adds hydration and definition without weighing the hair down.
Type 4: Coily / Kinky Hair
4A – Tight Coils with an S-Pattern
How it looks: Type 4A hair forms defined, springy coils with an S-shaped curl pattern. It’s the softest and most defined of the coily group, but still prone to dryness and shrinkage.
What it needs: Deep hydration is non-negotiable here. Creamy leave-ins and rich moisturisers help prevent breakage and keep coils elongated and defined.
Pro pick: L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Curl Expression Long-Lasting Leave-in Moisturiser for Curls & Coils a salon-grade leave-in that provides long-lasting hydration, softness, and shape retention.
Need help building your curl-care edit? Pop into your local store or speak to one of our expert team members for personalised advice on the best products for curly hair—because great curls start with great care.