Understanding your hair texture and type is essential for choosing the right products and styling techniques to keep your locks looking their best. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different aspects of your hair's characteristics.
Hair Texture: Hair texture refers to the thickness or diameter of individual hair strands. It can be classified into three main categories:
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Fine: Fine hair strands are small in diameter and often lack volume. Fine hair can be easily weighed down by heavy products and tends to be more prone to breakage.
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Medium: Medium hair strands have a moderate diameter and are neither too thin nor too thick. Medium-textured hair is versatile and tends to hold styles well.
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Coarse: Coarse hair strands are thicker in diameter and feel rougher to the touch. Coarse hair tends to be more resilient but may require more moisture and conditioning to keep it manageable.
Hair Type: Hair type refers to the shape or pattern of your hair strands and is commonly classified into four main categories:
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Straight: Straight hair has a smooth texture and lies flat against the scalp. It tends to be shiny and can easily become oily at the roots.
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Wavy: Wavy hair has a gentle "S" shape and falls somewhere between straight and curly. It has more volume and texture than straight hair but is not as tightly curled as curly hair.
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Curly: Curly hair forms spiral or corkscrew-shaped curls and tends to be more prone to frizz. It can range from loose curls to tight coils and requires moisture and careful handling to maintain its shape and definition.
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Kinky/Coily: Kinky or coily hair has tightly coiled or zigzag-shaped curls and is often referred to as "afro-textured" hair. It is naturally dry and requires regular moisturizing and protective styling to prevent breakage and retain length.
Hair Porosity: In addition to texture and type, hair porosity is another important factor to consider. Hair porosity refers to how well your hair can absorb and retain moisture. It can be classified as low, medium, or high porosity and affects how your hair responds to products and treatments.
Understanding your hair texture, type, and porosity can help you tailor your hair care routine to meet the specific needs of your hair. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for enhancing your hair's natural beauty and keeping it healthy and vibrant.
