The Complete Curl Type Guide: From Wavy 2A to Coily 4C

This guide helps you identify your curl pattern from 2A to 4C and gives you the fastest tips to care for it. Every section links to a deeper routine so you can dive in when you are ready.

How To Use This Guide

• Find the curl type that looks most like your pattern when hair is product free and air dried.
• Use the quick tips here to shape your routine.
• Click through to the full routine posts for step by step care. Replace the placeholders below with your blog URLs.

2A Wavy

Pattern: Mostly straight at roots with soft bends toward the ends. Needs: Lightweight hydration and minimal product.

• Detangle: In shower with slip using the Curl Detangling Shower Comb.
• Style: Leave in or a very light cream. Scrunch and air dry.
• Protect: Satin pillowcase to avoid flattening.
• Read the full 2A routine

2B Wavy

Pattern: Visible S waves mid lengths to ends. Roots can puff. Needs: Light slip plus gentle hold.

• Detangle: Wide tooth comb from ends up. Lift roots with the Curl Pick.
• Style: Dime size styler then scrunch. Minimal touching while drying.
• Refresh: Water mist plus a half drop of curl oil.
• Read the full 2B routine

2C Wavy

Pattern: Strong S waves close to curls. Needs: Slip for tangles plus frizz control.

• Detangle: Section, add conditioner, comb gently with the Shower Comb.
• Style: Leave in, scrunch, seal ends with curl oil.
• Protect: Sleep on satin and avoid dry brushing.
• Read the full 2C routine

3A Curly

Pattern: Loose spirals with bounce. Needs: Lightweight moisture and frizz control.

• Detangle: Wet hair plus Shower Comb to keep clumps intact.
• Style: Light cream or gel, scrunch, diffuse on low.
• Refresh: Water mist plus a drop of oil on halo frizz.
• Read the full 3A routine

3B Curly

Pattern: Springy ringlets about Sharpie width. Needs: Hydration and careful sectioning.

• Detangle: Work section by section with the Shower Comb. Use the Tail Comb for clean parts.
• Style: Leave in under gel or cream. Hands off while drying.
• Protect: Pineapple and use satin pillowcases.
• Read the full 3B routine

3C Curly

Pattern: Tight corkscrews with dense volume. Needs: Lots of slip and layered moisture.

• Detangle: Conditioner plus Shower Comb from ends upward. Lift roots with the Curl Pick.
• Style: Leave in, styler, then seal with curl oil.
• Refresh: Mist, spot detangle, a tiny bit of oil on ends.
• Read the full 3C routine

4A Coily

Pattern: Defined S shaped coils. Needs: Moisture sealing and gentle manipulation.

• Detangle: Finger first then Shower Comb. Use the Curl Pick for lift.
• Style: Twist outs and wash and go. Seal with oil.
• Protect: Loose twists at night plus satin.
• Read the full 4A routine

4B Coily

Pattern: Tight zig zag bends with lots of shrinkage. Needs: Rich hydration and low tension.

• Detangle: Small sections with lots of slip using the Shower Comb.
• Style: Braid outs, twist outs, bantu knots to define and stretch.
• Stretch: Banding or threading on damp hair.
• Read the full 4B routine

4C Coily

Pattern: Tightest micro coils with maximum shrinkage. Needs: Patience, slip, and layered moisture.

• Detangle: Finger first then Shower Comb. Never dry detangle.
• Style: Low manipulation styles and careful stretching.
• Protect: Satin nightly plus gentle handling.
• Read the full 4C routine

Detangling Basics For Every Curl Type

• Start with slip: Conditioner or add a few drops of curl oil.
• Use the right tools: Curl Detangling Shower Comb for gentle glide, Curl Pick for lift, Tail Comb for neat parts, and Smoothing Slick Back Brush for sleek styles after detangling.
• Work in sections: Ends to roots. If it snags, stop and add more water and slip.
• Protect at night: Satin pillowcases reduce friction and tangles.

FAQs

Can I have more than one curl type?

Yes. Most people have a mix. Use the routine that matches the tightest pattern on your head.

Do I need to detangle every day?

No. Detangle on wash days. Between washes use light refreshing and only spot detangle if needed.

What if I am not sure of my type?

Choose the section that looks closest and start there. The basics work for all types: slip, sectioning, moisture, and satin.

The Bottom Line

Understanding your curl type makes product choices and routines easier. Pair that knowledge with gentle detangling, layered moisture, and nighttime protection and your waves, curls, and coils will thrive.

→ Shop Curldo essentials: Shower Comb • Curl Pick • Tail Comb • Slick Back Brush • Curl Oils • Satin Pillowcases