A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair (2024)

Wavy hair, which is on the straighter side compared to curlier textures but still has some shape to it, is known as type 2 hair. Type 2 hair develops its structure from the shape of the cortex and is often divided into 3 categories: 2A, 2B and 2C. Classified as hair that is ‘naturally wavy’, type 2 hair forms an ‘S’ shape in the hair, with the stronger the ‘S’ shape, the more curly the hair is.

So why is it important to know your hair type? Well, have you tried a multitude of hair products, styles and treatments, yet are left feeling disappointed as they didn’t work for your hair? Knowing how to classify your strands is a great way to help you select the right products and build a hair care regime that your locks will benefit from most.

A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair (1)

Type 2 Hair Pros and Cons

So now you know the basics of what type 2 hair is, we’re going to reveal a few pros and cons with this unique hair type.

Pros: Year-round Beach Waves and Versatility

You know those natural,beachy waves that many women try to achieve through sea salt sprays and clever styling hacks? They are all yoursau naturel, meaning you have an on-trend style all year round!

Not one for beachy waves? Then you’ll also be pleased to know that type 2 hair has great versatility, enabling you to go between straight and curly styles with minimal effort. After all, who doesn’t like to have a variety of options when it comes to hair?

Cons: Identity Crisis and Frizzy, Flat Hair

While it can be amazing going between straight and curly styles, ladies with type 2 hair can often struggle to know which category they fall in. Is it straight? Is it curly? We share your pain.

Type 2 hair can also tend to fall flat and/or frizz more easily than straight styles. This means that, while looking for products that will care for your curls, you might find you need frizz-fighting and volumising products also it can be a balancing act.

The Different Categories of Type 2 Hair

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2A Hair: Wavy Swavy

Type 2A hair has a loose ‘S’ shaped pattern, with the hair often being quite fine. Due to this,type 2A hair can feel weighed down when too much product is applied. In addition, type 2A hair usually lacks definition or volume for this reason.

This type of hair is already pretty easy to manage, but when teamed with the right haircut can give the appearanceof fuller and thicker strands.

How to Style Type 2A Hair

Just like Sofia Richie and Arizona Muse, who both have type 2A hair, shoulder-length styleswill give your tresses the added oomph it needs.

We suggest trying out the celeb-favelong bob(AKA the lob), which works wonders for stars likeEmilia Clarke andChrissy Teigen, who are also proud owners of lob-cut type 2A hair. Or if you want to take things even shorter, do like Arizona Muse (above) and opt for a chic chin-grazing bob to show off your tresses.

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Top Product Picks for Type 2A Hair

Start by switching your current wash and care system to one formulated especially for fine tresses in mind. We love the for addingsky-high volume to thin hair.

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2B Hair: Wavy Curvy

With a more prominent ‘S’ shape, type 2B hair resembles loose beach-like waves with curls that don’t bounce up. Waves are more clearly defined and while that might sound most pleasing, type 2B haircan often frizz.

How to Style Type 2B hair

Type 2 hair looks great in longer styles (thinkRapunzel-length tresses, if you dare) and with that desirable beach waves look, you can effortlessly channel Vanessa Hudgens vibes.

You can also turn toCharli XCX for inspiration, as the singer often rocks her type 2 hair in an array of fab styles oh, and let’s not forget Kim Kardashian‘s lengthy tousled tresses.

Top Product Picks for Type 2B Hair

If frizzy hair is getting you down, treat yourself to theTRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Oil. Infused with keratin, this mask po; to smooth your locks, leaving them frizzandtangle-free!

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A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair (5)

Then, to make your post-treated hair appear even smoother and silkier, try a lightweight serum,which you can use after styling to help smooth down any unwanted frizz and add a glossy sheen.

A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair (6)

2C Hair: Wavy Whirly

Wavy hair with a very distinct ‘S’ shaped pattern, type 2C hair is borderline curly with strands of hair forming loose spiral curls. Type 2C hair is thicker, coarser and more resilient to styling, yet can be the frizziestof all type 2 hair.

How to Style Type 2C Hair

Take inspiration from Taylor Swiftcirca 2006 and Salma Hayek, and wear your type 2C hair in a medium to long style. As type 2C hair can feel heavy due to the thickness, we suggest styling it in a side or off-centre parting and pinning back if needed.

Alternatively, on the rare occasion thatJennifer Lopez and Rita Oradon’t straighten their tresses, they like to wear their naturally curly tresses in a short shag haircut.

Top Product Picks for Type 2C Hair

Forcurly-hairedladies struggling with coarse strands, we suggest trying theTRESemmé Nourish Coconut ShampooandConditioner.Not only will this clarifying shampoo gently cleanse your hair, but theconditioner willhelp to give your curly locks a major hydration boost –jackpot!

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A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair (7)

A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair (2024)

FAQs

A Guide to Type 2 Hair: How To Style and Care For Your Wavy Hair? ›

Ensure you use a conditioner every time you wash your hair, and a leave-in conditioner in between washes for an extra hydration boost. Styling - as type 2 hair can be weighed down easily, flattening that gorgeous natural wave, you should use lightweight and volumizing formulas.

How do you style type 2 wavy hair? ›

To avoid flattening of the natural waves, try not to layer products. Using stronger hold stylers will help keep your pattern as much as possible, by strengthening the curls. Always use a heat protectant spray before styling with heat tools to prevent damage to type 2 hair.

What is the best haircut for type 2 wavy hair? ›

1. Layered Haircut: Opt for a layered haircut to help enhance the natural waves and add volume to your hair. 2. Side-Swept Bangs: Consider adding side-swept bangs to frame your face and complement your wavy hair texture.

What is a good hair care routine for wavy hair? ›

Enhance your natural waves by using a curl-enhancing mousse or gel, scrunching damp hair gently, and air-drying or diffusing on low heat. Avoid brushing and embrace your wavy texture. Apply leave-in conditioner for added definition and frizz control. Experiment with products to find what works best for your waves.

What is type 2C wavy hair? ›

Like all type 2 hair, 2c hair is wavy, but that often feels like a technicality. Your S-bend hair is thick and the waves start at the roots. If you've ever been confused about whether your hair is wavy or curly, it's likely you have the 2c hair type.

What hairstyle is good for type 2 hair? ›

Strategic layers in wavy hair can create movement, make your hair look curlier, or give an interesting texture. For instance, you might get layers in a long bob hairstyle.

Is Type 2 hair wavy or curly? ›

Wavy hair, or type 2 hair as it's technically known, is a stunning and unique type with its signature 'S'-shaped curls and looser texture. But many mistakenly label it as 'frizzy' because it can lose shape without the right products.

Should wavy hair be layered? ›

"If you want to enhance your waves, you should add more layers to your cut," says celebrity hairstylist Danielle Priano. "The more weight you remove, the more movement your hair will have." Alternatively, a blunt cut weighs the hair down, making waves less apparent.

How do you take care of wavy hair? ›

TOP 6 WAVY HAIR TIPS
  1. Keep your hair moisture-rich. If your hair's hydrated, you'll notice the difference. ...
  2. Wave goodbye to over-styling. ...
  3. Comb with your fingers. ...
  4. Embrace the finger twirl. ...
  5. Keep it cool. ...
  6. Pin it up.

What is the best layering for wavy hair? ›

Typically two-step layers are the most popular choice as this offers movement and shaped volume. It's a cut that's best suited for thick, wavy hair types and results in an edgy bouncy look with distinguished levels. The widely spaced layers are clearly visible and look amazing even when straightened.

Should I comb my wavy hair everyday? ›

Brushing or combing hair will separate the hairs, destroying the wave. Wavy hair is often more delicate than curly hair, so it has to be treated gently to avoid destroying waves. Even curly hair can sometimes be flattened, pulled straight, or made “poofy” if brushed or combed.

How do you take care of wavy hair everyday? ›

DEEP CONDITION OFTEN.

Because wavy hair is prone to dryness. So, even if you condition a lot in one go during your shower, deep conditioning as another step will help keep your hair hydrated. Work in a nourishing, frizz-fighting hair oil on dry hair to keep your curls feeling soft without losing their bounce.

How do you brush Type 2 hair? ›

2b hair gets tangled and knots easily, making brushing it out somewhat damaging. Use a wide-toothed comb when brushing your hair to avoid knots and tangles. The wider-toothed comb will be gentler on your hair and enhance your natural waves. This will break up waves without causing frizz and reduce breakage.

What does Type 2 hair look like? ›

The type 2 pattern is neither straight nor curly, but instead sits in the middle of the two, ranging from loose loops to large S-shaped waves. The waves sit close to the head and become curlier from the ears onwards.

What is Type 3 wavy hair? ›

Texture Type 3 Wavy 2C-3A

TEXTURE: Wavy, Distinct S-Shaped Curves with a Uniform Wave Pattern. GROWTH PATTERN: Grows down from the scalp in alternating C-Shape. BODY / VOLUME: Some body, volume or end wave movement. ELASTICITY: Stretching with moderate return. POROSITY: Slightly raised to raised cuticle.

How can I make my 2b hair look good? ›

To avoid creating excess frizz or drying out your waves, you should wash your 2b hair 2 to 3 times a week. Be careful not to shampoo too often, and use sulfate-free products. Co-wash your hair on alternate days and add a deep conditioning treatment every two weeks to restore and hydrate your locks.

How can I make my 2A hair look good? ›

Get regular hair cuts

It is essential to trim ends and keep hair healthy so 2a hair types can develop their natural texture and shape. At shoulder length or a little longer, waves will look bouncy and bounce well. Too-long waves will look ragged and unruly.

What can I do with wavy 2A hair? ›

Use Styling Products

Not only will products like leave-in conditioners, hair pomades, and gels limit issues like frizz, tangles, and oiliness, but they're also key for manageability when styling strands. Using styling products helps add moisture and nourishment to 2A hair for more defined waves.

Should you brush type 2 hair? ›

Just like you need to be careful brushing type 2b waves when dry, you should hold off on brushing when your hair is wet. That's because your wash day waves are more vulnerable to breakage and knotting when damp. Type 2b hair is specifically prone to forming tangles around the mid-lengths of the hair when wet.

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