While the hair typing system isn’t perfect – it can be a useful tool for figuring out what hair products and styling techniques will work best for your tresses. According to the system (which has evolved since celebrity stylist Andre Walker dreamt it up in the ‘90s), there are nine curl types in total. Sitting somewhere between curly (type 3) and wavy (type 2), is where you’ll find 2C.
It goes without saying that no two heads of hair are the same and, as Nià Pettitt, owner of The Curl Bar London, points out – “textured hair is so unique and many of us have multiple hair patterns on our heads.” For that reason, it can be difficult to differentiate between types 2B, 2C and 3A. Ahead, experts break down everything you need to know about the 2C curl pattern – including its characteristics, how to care for it and the best products to use.
What is a 2C hair type?
When identifying your curl type, celebrity hairstylist Dionne Smith recommends consulting a hair chart. “There are so many available online and they all provide a visual representation of every hair type and their subcategories to help give people an idea of which one they fall into,” she tells us.
For the uninitiated, there are four hair types in total – type 1 (straight), type 2 (wavy), type 3 (curly) and type 4 (coily). Each type has three subcategories – A, B and C. “These subcategories further define the different hair types depending on how loose or tight the waves/curls are,” explains Smith.
2C hair is the waviest type within the type 2 category. “It has a definitive s-shaped pattern that starts at the roots,” says Smith. Typically, 2C waves don’t form a full corkscrew through the entire length of the hair – but the defined waves are often mixed in with loose curls.
“I see so many clients on a day-to-day basis who have two or three different curl types that may require different styling techniques or even different products,” flags Pettitt. She adds that hair typing isn't always helpful and to bear in mind that many people fall into two different types.
How do I know if my hair is 2C or 3A?
According to the experts, type 2C and 3A are quite close in texture. “The best way to differentiate between the two is to think of 2C as a flowing s-shape and 3A as a coiled spring,” says Samantha Cusick, ghd ambassador and celebrity hairstylist. So, while 3A hair has well-defined, spiral-shaped curls, 2C hair has defined waves that don’t quite make spiral curls.
“I always tell customers to wash their hair and let it air dry without applying products to figure out their hair type, as this is your hairs natural state,” says Cusick. “You can then use any curl chart online to compare your hair to, paying close attention to the shape of the waves or curls.” If you’re torn between 2B and 2C, look at whether the wave starts at the root. “If it does, chances are it’s 2C,” adds Smith.
What hairstyle is best for 2C hair?
“There are so many different hairstyles that can work on 2C hair,” says Smith. To really embrace your natural texture, Cusick recommends opting for loose updos or half-up and half-down styles as they’re super flattering and will showcase your waves effortlessly.
In terms of cut and colour, the experts agree that layers and highlights can work wonders on 2C hair. “Adding layers will help to add shape and bounce back into the hair,” says Pettitt. “For extra dimension, I always recommend highlights of balayage as the lighter colour helps to add depth to your waves,” says Cusick.
The styles that are gentle on your hair but still keep you looking cute.
How can I make my 2C hair look good?
As with all curl types, the correct care and products are key to curating the perfect 2C waves. Ahead the stylists share their top tips for enhancing 2C hair:
- “Invest in a good quality conditioner for extra hydration as this hair type typically tends to get dry,” says Cusick.
- “Shampoo 2C hair two or three times a week, as too much washing can dry out the waves,” advises Smith.
- “I'd highly recommend using mousses or gels that really hold the curl, as it's easy for looser textures to flatten as time goes on,” says Pettitt.
- “When applying styling product make sure this is on wet or damp hair as this will help the waves to hold their shape,” suggests Smith.
- Finally, “a silk pillowcase is a must have item for those with 2C hair. It makes such a difference as it helps to prevent frizz but also breakage while you sleep,” adds Cusick.
