Type 3 Hair: How To Identify Your Hair Type + Curly Hair Styling Tips From The Pros

Now, most people have multiple types to care for—additionally, factors like porosity, density, and lifestyle factors can all play a role in your hair care routine. So, no, this isn't an exact science. But understanding your type is a very good place to start. 

As a rundown: Type 1 is straight, with the variance usually coming down to how flat your hair lies. Type 2 is wavy, with the major differences depending on how loose the S-pattern is. Type 3 is curly, which changes depending on how tight the curl is. And Type 4 is kinky or coily, which changes depending on whether the shape of the pattern is more zigzag or springs. 

"I cannot stress studying your hair enough. A stylist can only give you recommendations, but essentially you go home with your hair," says Danielle Malary, owner of Lumiere Vive Salon. "Feel your hair out, document how it reacts. Essentially, keep a journal for your hair and learn to love it."

As the loosest curls, these are usually the most finicky and least defined of this bunch. They can be described as medium-barrel curls and can have a lot of variety in the sizing of the different sections. As they are not as defined inherently, they can be weighed down by product easier, too. 

Here your spirals are getting tighter and more defined. These will look like bouncy ringlets with a bit of spring and pop. The width of these is similar to a large marker. The hair is also quite voluminous and lush-looking. 

This pattern is a tight loop, with a circumference like a pen. They're also the closest to type 4, and share many characteristics of that grouping—such as being prone to breakage or dryness. You'll also have a lot of volume, starting right at the root. 

Think of hair types like you might skin types. Sure your skin can fall under a general category of characteristics, but other factors will also influence your overall skin care routine, such as age, lifestyle, specific conditions, and tone. And while hair type plays a large role in your routine, the below will too. 

"Hair porosity describes how the hair's cuticle absorbs and holds on to moisture in its pores—hence, the term porosity," says Branch. And it's a spectrum, ranging from high to low. High porosity means the cuticles are more open, so hair absorbs water easily. But it also means it evaporates easily. Hair that has low porosity has dense cuticles. This means the hair has a harder time absorbing water, product, or even your scalp's natural oils, and you'll see buildup faster. It also takes longer to dry after getting wet as it's holding all that water in. Then you can fall somewhere between these two ends of the spectrum, which is considered medium porosity. You can take our hair porosity quiz for more information. 

Hair density is basically how full your head of hair is. According to celebrity hairstylist Ryan Richman, "The density of the hair is determined by how close your hair strands are to each other. This, in turn, determines how thin or thick your hair appears." Scalps with more hair follicles often appear more lush and full—but may also be drier (especially at the ends) and harder to manage. Scalps with low density may mean wider parts and thinner styles but will usually be shiner and easier to hydrate, says Richman. 

Thickness and thinness are often confused with density, but the two actually refer to the diameter of the strand. Thin strands have a small circumference, while thick strands are larger. If you don't know where you fall, you can try the fingertip test: roll around a strand of hair between two fingers. If you can feel it, you have a thick diameter. If it's basically undetectable, it's likely on the thinner side. We recommend trying this with several strands on your head, as diameter can change depending on the area of your scalp. 

Caring for your precious strands means you need to get to know them. One huge part of that puzzle? Your curl type.