The Andrew Walker scale is often used by hair care professionals to identify different types of hair. Yes, it might seem surprising to some, but hairs are classified into different types.
Dense, curly locks are classified as type C hair. The classification offers a better overview of the caring needs, styling methods, and other aspects so that the hair remains in pristine condition.
Come along as we explore 3C hair types, their characteristics, and the caring tips needed to keep them healthy.
What is 3C Hair?
You might have seen people with string curly hairs that are thick and voluminous. They curl quickly, yet still offer enough fullness – these are 3C hairs.
Although anyone can have curly hair, those with African ancestry are the most likely to have 3C hair types. Moreover, 3C hair often exhibits defined curls, is prone to dryness, and needs continuous hydration and moisturizing.
That’s why understanding the unique needs of 3C hair is essential for effective care and styling to enhance its natural beauty.
Defining characteristics of 3C Hairs
3C hair exhibits defining characteristics that enable its easy identification.
- Curly Pattern – Well, this one seems obvious, but, no, 3C hair features right curls and can have the circumference of a pencil or a straw.
- Texture – Unlike 3A and 3B hair types, 3C hair is more structured and can be fine and coarse. Besides, the curls are more defined.
- Volume – Due to thick curl and defined structure 3C hair appears to be full and voluminous.
- Shrinkage – The S-shaped curls of type C hair tend to shrink quickly. It means that type C hair appears shorter than its actual length due to a high degree of shrinkage.
- Density – Although hair density can vary from person to person, type C hair is generally dense and thick. Most individuals with 3C hair generally have densely packed thick curls.
- Porosity Levels – 3C hairs are generally less porous, which makes them prone to dryness. That said, porosity can also vary from one person to another.
- Frizz – 3C hair tends to frizz easily, especially in humid conditions. That’s why 3C hair needs specialized care for frizz control.
How to take care of 3C Hair? – Styling Tips
Caring tips for 3C hair are easy to follow, however, you have to follow the course continually to maintain optimum hair health.
Use Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Sulfate often aggravates dryness in hair, therefore prefer shampoos that are sulfate free. Compliment with a good conditioner to prevent dryness.
Regular Conditioning
The primary issue with curly hair is dryness. You can overcome it with regular deep conditioning. It maintains moisture levels and gives you more pronounced curls.
Detangling Products
Use detangling products to minimize hair damage. It could be in the form of a spray or clean that facilitates the detangling process.
Incorporate Protective Styling
Protective styling like braids and twists significantly promote 3C hair growth and prevent them from frizz and damage.
Understand your Hair Prisotity
People with 3C hair have different porosity levels. High porosity makes your hair more vulnerable to moisture loss, while low porosity will make it hard to hydrate the hair. Determining the porosity level can help you pick a suitable product that offers optimum hydration.
Why is 3C hair prone to dryness?
3C hair grows in curls, that is to say in spirals. It prevents sebum from effectively circulating from the root to the scalp.
In straightened hair, the sebum spreads uniformly and easily along the hair shafts. However, due to the physiological structure of curly hair, the spreading of sebum occurs slowly and unevenly, which contributes to hair dryness.
How to make curly, frizzy hairs shine?
3C hair tends to frizz easily, which makes it appear dull and dead. Here are some simple steps that can bring your curly 3C hair back to life;
Deeply Nourish your Hair with Oil Baths
Oils bath is an effective treatment for dry, frizzy hair. It intensely nourishes the hair and protects it from external damage. Furthermore, it also smoother the scalp and makes them appear shinier.
Hydrate Your Hair Quite Often
Proper hydration is the key to preventing dry, frizzy hair. The best course is to hydrate them every 2 to 3 days. For the effective hydration of 3C hair, we recommend you follow the LOC method. It’s liquid (water), oil, and cream.
Try Hair Masks
The hair mask is an absolute must for a 3C hair type. It softens your hair and ensures continuous hydration. Besides, hair masks are enriched with essential hair nutrients and active ingredients that nourish the hair and prevent damage.
Include Hair Care Products with Keratin and Ceramide
Keratin and Ceramide are naturally occurring compounds in hair scalps. However, certain conditions like chemical coloring could leech them away.
Keratin and Ceramide smoothen hair and give it shine; their deficiency makes hair look dull and dry.
General Instructions To Manage 3C Hair
Proper care is the key to managing curly 3C hair. Follow these instructions to easily manage 3C hair and keep it supple and shiny;
- Never style them at high temperatures, it prevents frizz and breakage.
- If possible, shampoo only once a week and follow it with a mid-week, co-wash product.
- Use hair oil to keep it moisturized.
- Detangle your hair with fingers rather than a comb.
- Only touch your curls when they are dry to prevent breakage.
Conclusion
Type C hair tends to be more curly than other types, therefore frizzes easily, shrinks, and appears dry. For proper nourishment of curly hairs, hydration, and a moderate approach is key.
Deep condition products, a simple styling approach, and avoiding harsh chemical-rich products can keep them shiny and bouncy.
