Your hair type defines how you should care for it. Since curly hair comes in different shapes and sizes, it is important to know your hair type and customize your hair care routine accordingly. Knowing your curl pattern and type is the only way to figure out which curly hair care routine and products are right for you.
If you are unsure about your curly locks falling into the 3A category, this blog is for you! Here, we will dive into the world of 3A hair and discuss what type 3A hair is and how to care for it. So, keep reading to learn more!
What is type 3A hair?
Hair types are generally classified into four basic categories, ranging from 1 to 4, based on their curl patterns and textures. Type 1 is straight, Type 2 is wavy without noticeable curls, Type 3 is curly and Type 4 is coily. Each of these types is further divided into subcategories from A to C that vary based on texture and curl patterns.
Type 3A hair features large and loose ringlets that can be easily straightened. In contrast, Types 3B and 3C have tighter and more springy curls. Specifically, the “3” in Type 3 denotes curly strands, while the “A” signifies that the curls form an S-shaped pattern. Compared to types 3B and 3C, 3A curls are finer to medium in texture and generally have less volume.
In addition, type 3A often struggles with dryness and frizz because its curl pattern prevents natural oils from reaching the ends of the hair. This results in oily roots and brittle ends. They are also more prone to breakage and may lack moisture and definition.
People sometimes confuse 3A hair with 2C hair due to their similar appearances. However, the key difference is that type 2C has a zig-zag pattern, while type 3A features an S-shaped spiral pattern.
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How to care for 3A curls?
Type 3A natural hair are unique and with these 3A curly hair products and tips you can have healthy-looking, defined and shiny 3A curls:
Reach for sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
You can keep your 3A curls in tip-top shape by avoiding excessive drying products that contain sulfates. Start using the best shampoo for 3A curly hair, as it is gentle and will not strip your hair of its natural oils. Sulfate-free curly hair shampoo like Curl Nourish (Moroccan Argan Oil) Hair Shampoo adds moisture and shine to your hair.
After cleansing your hair of dirt, buildup and impurities, you must not forget to impart moisture back into the hair before styling. The Curl Nourish (Moroccan Argan Oil) Hair Conditioner helps moisturize the hair cuticle and repair dry and damaged hair in just a few uses.
If your 3A curls need some extra TLC, consider using a hair mask like the Deep Conditioning Strength & Repair Hair Mask that infuses your hair with a powerful dose of moisture and nutrients.
Stop Over Brushing Your Hair
Brushing your 3A hair type curls too often or roughly can result in hair breakage and loss at the crown and hairline. Therefore, you should reduce the time you spend combing your curls and start using a detangling solution or leave-in conditioner.
It will help you remove hair knots without much hassle. Moreover, avoid combing your 3A hair type when they are dry because it can spoil your curl pattern.
Avoid over-washing
Washing 3A type hair too often can not only lead to dryness but damage. Therefore, try washing your hair once a week to maintain healthier and more resilient hair. This routine allows the natural oils from your scalp to be distributed through your hair. It will ultimately enhance the overall strength and health of your hair.
Pineappling
Pineappling is a simple technique to reduce frizz while you sleep. Before going to bed, flip your head upside down, gather your curls at the top of your head and secure them loosely with a silk scrunchie. Shake out your curls in the morning and use your fingers to style them as desired.
Avoid chemical treatments and heat styling tools
Chemical treatments at salons permanently change the texture of your curls. Although some treatments can make it easier to manage your hair, they will make it difficult to restore the natural definition of your 3A type hair.
In this case, you can only get your natural curls back once your hair grows. Furthermore, heat styling tools make hair feel dry and brittle and also promote hair loss. So, it is best to avoid using these tools as much as you can.
Use a silk pillowcase
Regular cotton pillowcases can damage your hair shafts because they cause friction between the fabric and your hair. But a silk pillowcase can protect your hair while you sleep as it helps reduce the amount of friction.
Related: Care for Natural Curls: The Do’s and Don’t You Should Know
3A curly hair care takes effort, but all the efforts are well worth it for defined and moisturized curls. If you are looking for the best 3A curly hair products, look no further and choose Best Life. Shop our 100% natural and high-quality products today and see the difference they can make!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1- How do I know if I have 3A type hair?
Ans. Differentiating between hair types is not always easy, especially if you have chemically or heat-treated your hair. If you have a mix of wavy and slightly curly hair, with curls more towards the curly side, chances are you fall into the 3A category. 3A natural hair are large and loosely looped spiral curls that start with a wavy pattern, but the mid-shaft to ends are loose coils.
Q2- Why is my 3A natural hair so frizzy?
Ans. Usually all curly hair types are frizzy, some are more than others. Your 3A hair might be prone to frizz because of the following two key reasons:
- Not using the right curly hair shampoo
- Brushing or combing dry curls
The best way to fight frizz and get defined curls is by using styling products with hold such as Best Life’s Curl Nourish Hydrating Style Hair Cream or Curl Nourish Hydrating Style Gel.