Curl Patterns for Curly Hair Types 2A - 3A
Whether you have wavy or curly hair, understanding your curl pattern is essential to properly caring for your hair. Many times, women have multiple curly patterns. I range from 2C-3B; the underside of my hair tends to have less curl.
Knowing which curl pattern your hair falls into depends on the wave's shape: straight hair is 0A, wavy hair is 2A or 2C, and more coiled patterns, such as 4C, are often referred to as kinky. All wavy hair types begin at 2A and increase according to wave pattern until they reach a maximum of 2C.
Remember, every hair type is different, so understanding your unique wave pattern is key to properly caring for your gorgeous locks!
Other Wavy Hair Types
2A - Hair Type Example
2A hair has the slightest wave. This curl-type pattern lies somewhere between total straightness and wavy. It's described as wavy with a slight S-shaped bend, which gives it tons of wavy volume, body, and bounce. The waviness of this type of curl pattern becomes more noticeable when the hair is shorter or air-dried - so don't be afraid to experiment and find your inner curl!
2B - Hair Type Example
2B hair is wavy hair with a more defined S-shaped bend. It looks bouncy, with big, beautiful waves that you can easily style into beachy looks or show off as is. With proper care and nourishing products, your 2B hair can become shiny and frizz-free; you'll be amazed! To get the most out of your curls, invest in great hair products that moisturize, define, and are designed specifically for curly hair to keep your waves looking wavy and fabulous!
2C - Hair Type Example
2C hair is wavy/curly with well-defined S-shaped curls and is getting very close to creating a spiral definition. You may even start to see those ringlet patterns. Picture a corkscrew pattern in your 2C hair. When it comes to managing 2C curls, I will share many tips and tricks below to keep your hair looking its best.
3A - Hair Type Example
3A hair has soft, defined curls that take on a coil-like shape. This curl pattern can be seen in both medium-textured and fine-haired individuals. 3A curls usually have a noticeable "S" shape, and when properly cared for, these coils become shiny and voluminous. Invest in curly-haired products to keep the strands moisturized and protected from damage. With just a few simple steps, you can give your 3A curls the attention they deserve!
Not sure which products work best for your curl type? Shop by curl type.
What Are all the Benefits of Having 2C Hair?
Having natural 2c curls has many benefits - it can create natural waves, add volume, and bring life to any style. Style in any way you like, whether you prefer loose, natural curls, defined, structured curls, or something wild and carefree.
- Voluptuous Curls stand out!
- Low Maintenance Curls
- Natural body and hair texture
- Your hair is Unique!
Those with 2c hair will also appreciate the natural ability to 'clump' their curls and waves without worrying about extra products or manipulations. Naturally wavy hair can also take less time and effort to style, as any girl with straight hair who has tried to get some wave will tell you! You will not need high heat to get your waves, leaving your hair healthier and stronger.
Our AuBonacci Leave-In Curl Styling Cream is formulated to enhance that natural clumping and keep your curls defined all day. See it here.
Ultimately, embracing natural 2c curls brings out the beautiful texture of your hair while adding a touch of timeless charm and class.
The Downsides of 2c Hair
Caring for 2C curly hair can be challenging, as its natural texture can present unique problems. Maintaining luscious curls may seem like more work at first, but the truth is, it requires specific products and techniques. Once you learn the right products and techniques, you'll get curly results you will love.
It often requires a bit of trial and error before finding the right product, technique, or combination that accommodates your particular natural wave pattern.
Frustration is natural when trying to care for 2C curly hair — especially if you have limited knowledge — but with the right tips, tricks, and products, you can quickly bring out your natural wavy texture. We've done the testing for you. Shop our recommended 2C starter kit.
2C Curly Hair Tips
Taking care of 2C curly hair does not have to be daunting; with a few haircare tips and styling tricks, you can easily make your curls look their best!
The first tip is to opt for a satin (or even better, silk) pillowcase when you go to bed. These pillowcases help reduce hair drag when you move during sleep. It may seem subtle, but reducing this drag can reduce frizz and breakage, helping your curls stay defined and intact in the morning.
Secondly, avoid hot tools like curling irons or straighteners as much as possible to prevent damage to your hair. Keep in mind that even non-electric metal styling tools can be very hard on hair.
Thirdly, invest in hair products designed for curly hair. Your curls are different from straight hair, and products for curly hair will help ensure your hair stays hydrated and healthy.
Finally, learn to assess your hair in different environments and in different seasons. The dry winter is a wonderful time to incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine monthly or weekly, or to ensure you have a moisturizing leave-in product to help replenish lost moisture.
In the summer, if you are at the beach or in and out of pools, you will also need to ensure you have leave-in moisturizing products on that fabulous hair. Look for a leave-in like the AuBonacci Leave-In Curl Styling Cream that offers moisture and protection from the elements.
With these helpful 2C Curly hair tips, you will surely have beautiful, healthy curls!
Curly Hair Routine
Caring for your 2c curls requires a special routine and the right maintenance techniques to keep them healthy and beautiful! Implementing products specifically designed for curly hair can be a great start.
Focus on air-drying your hair as much as possible, and when you need to blow-dry it, use a diffuser to prevent blowing out your natural waves and curls. My favorite hair dryer is the Dyson; however, I had good luck with Chi and Shark blow dryers before I purchased from Dyson, and Conair can also do the trick- the key is the diffuser attachment.
To get that added hydration, apply a moisturizing leave-in product after rinsing your conditioner. Your hair should be "squishy" wet and, with the leave-in cream, feel very smooth and slippery. Applying a serum will help lock in moisture, protect hair from the elements, and add shine. Rake through your hair and gently squish to make sure it's distributed.
At this point, gently holding hair with a t-shirt will take care of drips without adding frizz. The next step is gel to help create and hold definition. With the gel in, gently squeeze to encourage your wave and curl pattern.
From here, you can diffuse or air dry. If you like some lift and direction at the roots, this is a great time to use your AuBonacci Curling Styler along the crown and around your face. Gently diffuse the rest.
Once dry, you should have some crunchy spots- this is temporary! Simply squeeze the crunchy spots. It is called "scrunching out the crunch". The crunchy feel and stringy look will reveal beautiful, defined waves and curls, with wonderful hold and great frizz protection. Do not be afraid of the crunch!
Some people like to put a little oil in their hands when they scrunch out the crunch. Another technique is to use the diffuser as you scrunch. The most important thing is to ensure hair is dry before scrunching out the crunch.
With this routine, your 2c curls will stay in tip-top shape!
Ready to build your routine? Shop the complete AuBonacci Curl Collection
Hair Care Trimming Tips
If you're looking for hair care trimming tips for your 2C curly hair, there are a few things to keep in mind. You can check out this article, "How to Tame the Frizz," for more details.
First, be sure to visit a hairstylist who specializes in curly hair—it can save you from unwanted styling mishaps. Look for someone whose main clientele is curly-haired individuals, as cutting curly hair requires specific expertise and can be challenging even for seasoned professionals. It’s worth doing your research!
When you see people with beautiful curls, ask them who they go to. Most curly girls are happy to help a fellow curly girl. We have all left the salon in tears at some point!
Secondly, micro trims are key! Trimming the ends of your hair every 6-8 weeks will enhance its shape and texture while reducing breakage.
Lastly, keep in mind that cutting curly bangs can be tricky and will require more maintenance. We recommend consulting your hair stylist and getting their advice before cutting — they know best!
While you're growing out those healthy ends, keep them nourished between trims with the AuBonacci Leave-In Curl Styling Cream.
Combat Frizz
If unwanted frizz makes you feel like a stressed-out mess, there is an answer! Whether you have natural 2C curly hair, some tried-and-true tips can help you say goodbye to unwanted frizz. Check out this article Why is my hair staticky - 5 tips to tame for more detailed advice.
Think moisture! Think locking in moisture! Think protection from the environment!
Firstly, invest in a good-quality shampoo and conditioner that works with your hair type. This will go a long way toward frizz-free hair.
Secondly, a leave-in moisturizer, followed by a serum and gel, will moisturize, seal, and protect! By choosing a moisturizing shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in cream, you will keep your locks hydrated to help prevent them from taking on moisture from the environment (which equals frizz!).
Finally, finishing off the look with an anti-frizz product of your choosing is essential! A high-hold gel and holding spray are my choices here in Florida. This will provide a finished look and keep frizz at bay. Now you can run through the day with worry-free curls that look stunningly shiny and healthy!
Avoid Over-Washing Your Hair
When caring for 2c curly hair, keep in mind that it is not helpful or necessary to wash your hair every day. If possible, avoid over-washing your hair! Overwashed and overworked hair tends to be dry, frizzy, and easily breakable. Be gentle with your wet tresses.
Some people even use cold water to be extra gentle, but the water would have to be extremely hot to damage your curls. If you don't like cold hair washes, don't worry! But we encourage you to find what works best for YOU, so try out the different approaches. Great tips in my article, The Best Curly Hair Washing Tips.
Two simple techniques for removing water from wet hair are air-drying and towel-drying (we recommend a t-shirt towel). Air-drying is beneficial, but if you don't have time or want faster results, reach for a t-shirt or a microfiber towel to towel-dry your mane. If you need to blow-dry your hair, make sure you use the diffuser attachment!
Pair every wash day with the AuBonacci Leave-In Curl Styling Cream to restore moisture and keep your curls defined from the start.
Maximizing Your 2c Hair Results
Maximizing your 2c hair texture can seem daunting when you aren't sure what to do, but once you find your groove, you will be unstoppable! So, take the time to find your groove! The great thing about 2c hair is that you probably have a mixture of different curl types and textures, which makes it easy to create gorgeous styles!
Some key takeaways: When distributing product, start with a wide-tooth comb, or a Denman-style brush (not thin bristles!), or your fingers to help separate your hair into clumps. Gently squeeze hair with styling products to encourage curls.
When dry, DO NOT be afraid of crunchy hair- this means great results await you after you scrunch out the crunch! A complete routine is in this complete curl routine guide. Find the right hairstyling products that work best with your hair, regardless of the style you prefer to rock.
Take some time to experiment with different products and techniques like scrunching and finger-coiling until you find something that works - and don't be afraid to change it up now and then. With the right styling routine, you'll soon bring out the full potential of your 2c curls!
Not sure where to start? Shop the AuBonacci Curl Collection and find the right products for your 2C hair.
The Best 2C Curly Hair Products
Are you looking for the best products to get your 2c curly hair in tip-top shape? Caring for these beautiful locks can be tricky, but with the right know-how and a few practical products, you'll have shiny, healthy, and manageable curls in no time.
Leave-in conditioners are essential as they help to preserve natural oils within the hair shaft and close down rough cuticles. I created a Leave-In Cream you curls will love, the AuBonacci Leave-In Curl Styling Cream.
Styling products like creams or gels enhance definition and keep strands hydrated. With these simple steps, your 2c curls will look their absolute best! Check out AuBonacci High Hold Gel Plus Volume!
Final Thoughts
Curly hair is beautiful and unique, but it comes with its own set of challenges. I hope this guide has helped you better understand your 2c curls and how to care for them.
Remember, finding what works for YOU and YOUR hair is the most important thing. Experiment with different products, routines, and styles until you find what makes your curl pop. And don't forget to enjoy the journey!
Ready to start your 2C routine? Our AuBonacci Curl Collection is formulated specifically for curly hair types like yours — from leave-in cream to serum to gel. Shop the AuBonacci Curl Collection.
