The no-BS guide to curl types

Salon64 Director, curl types Theno-BS guide to

Ricky Walters, takes us through keeping your waves in check

CURLY, girls, we salute you. Finding the right products for your hair type is not an easy task to navigate, especially when there are so many variations of curls and waves out there (and we love them all equally).

But fear not, when it comes to curls, you’ll hear the ‘typing’ system developed by hairstylist Andre Walker thrown around a lot, and we’re here to untangle it with the help of Salon64’s Director, Ricky Walters.

It can make all the difference when shopping for haircare (and in turn, not feeling stressed at the thought). Of course, there’s debate as to whether the typing system is still not inclusive enough, but it’s gradually growing… and it’s all a learning curve, right? Let’s take a look.

THE BASICS Hair types:

“Your curl type is determined by how tight or strong your curls are partnered with its texture,” Ricky says. “Very loose, naturally wavy hair tends to be the starting point, right up to tightly coiled hair and ringlets.

“Identifying your curl pattern all starts by identifying your curl type. Type 1s are straight, Type 2s are wavy, Type 3s are curly, and Type 4s are coily. The next system is based on the width or diameter of your wave, curl, or coil (these are the As, Bs, and Cs). Then simply join to find your hair type.”

He adds: “Some people do have a mixture of curl types! It’s important to identify why this could be. If you have always had a patch in one area of your hair that just always falls straighter than the rest the chances is this is purely just the way your hair grows and choosing two different product choices for the two hair types is essential.

“However, if you find your once beautiful curls are now starting to go straight on the ends this is likely a sign of chemical or heat damage and it’s time for a trim!”

Type 2

Credit: @medusa_curlss

Type 3

Credit: @elisemodeste_

Type 4

Credit: @hopelessfromantic

THE TYPING SYSTEM Type 2

“For all the type 2’s out there, it’s all about using your waves to your advantage. The more boho the better. A shampoo and conditioner that resets your hair is essential. SALON64’s Viva La Shine Shampoo and Conditioner uses charcoal to cleanse the hair followed by the oil found in coffee to hydrate and moisture the perfect curl combination.”

Type 3

“Type 3’s is a curl that relies on product. Using Twister Curl Primer by R&CO will be life changing but better still mixing in a little SALON64 Viva La Moisture Conditioner will help those curls last even longer.”

Type 4

“The choice is yours. A light product and brushed out gives you the wow factor with max attitude. However, a strong shape with the haircut is crucial. Otherwise, applying product section by section on wet hair will give you the definition you deserve.”

R+Co Twister Curl Primer,

thebeautyagenda.uk, £23

Salon64 Viva La Shine Conditioner,

salon64.co.uk,

£19.99