Every hair journey starts with understanding your hair type or pattern. Straight, curly, wavy and coily are four hair patterns with subcategories that give more details about curl definition. Knowing your hair type is important because each type has different needs. 2A hair type, or 2A curls or waves, is the loosest type of wavy hair on the curl chart.
It includes three wave types: 2A, 2B and 2C. Each type needs different care, hair products and ways to identify them. This blog will cover everything you need to know about 2A curly hair, including how to care for it, what products to use and how to style it. So, let us explore the details of type 2A hair!
What is 2A hair type?
Before we discuss how to care for 2A curls, let us start by breaking down the twelve hair types. They are grouped into four main patterns: straight (1), wavy (2), curly (3) and coily (4). Within these patterns, hair types are further classified with letters A, B and C. These letters show how defined the curls are (from least to most defined). All type 2 hair forms an ‘S’ shape, and the stronger the ‘S’, the wavier the hair.
People with 2A curly hair have the loosest waves of all wave types. This hair can look straight at the roots but has a slight wave or curl down the length. Unlike straight hair, 2A has gentle bends along the strands and at the ends.
Simply put, Type 2A hair is a “naturally wavy” type. It is straighter than curlier types but still has a slight wave. Too much product on 2A hair type can make it feel heavy and lose its definition and volume. However, this hair type can look fuller, thicker and easier to manage with the best type 2 curly hair products.
How to care for 2A hair?
Not all hair types need the same care. If we talk about 2A hair, it is important to choose the best 2A hair care products and wash your hair regularly to keep it healthy. This hair type has flatter roots and a finer texture, and the wrong products can make your waves feel heavy. Once you learn how to care for 2A hair, your hair will become easier to manage, and you can also switch between straight and wavy styles.
Also Read: Unlock the Secrets of 3C Hair Type: How to Identify and Care for Your Curl Type
Wash your hair semi-regularly
Since 2A hair is looser than type 2 curls and type 4 coils, it needs to be washed more often. That is because the hair can get greasy at the roots and feel heavy. How often you wash your hair depends on how much product you use, how quickly it gets dirty and where you live.
Use the right products
As with any hair type, choose a gentle sulfate-free shampoo like Best Life’s Curl Nourish (Moroccan Argan Oil) Hair Shampoo that cleans well without taking away your hair’s natural oils. In addition, consider getting some leave-in type 2A curly hair products (moisturizing masks or volumizers) like Deep Conditioning Strength & Repair Hair Mask to control frizz, add volume at the roots and boost your waves.
One thing to know here is that 2A waves are the loosest curl pattern, and they do not get as dry because the natural oils from the scalp can travel down the hair more easily. That means you need less conditioner in your type 2A hair care routine.
Use styling products
Products like Curl Nourish Hydrating Style Gel and hair cream for curly and wavy hair can help reduce frizz, tangles and oiliness. These type 2A curly hair products can make your hair easier to style as they add moisture and nutrients to 2A hair, ultimately giving more defined waves. Not only this, but these products can help enhance the wave pattern for a fuller look.
Get regular haircuts
It is a good idea to trim it every 10 to 12 weeks if you have 2A hair to keep it manageable. Regular trims promote healthy ends and help your hair show its natural texture and shape. Since 2A hair can get weighed down easily, keeping it shorter- around shoulder length or a bit longer- helps your waves look bouncy and lively.
Avoid going too long, as the hair can look messy and unruly and may not look perfect for everyday life.
Detangle before washing and styling
Although you can brush, comb or scrunch 2A hair easily, using a detangling product is still a good idea to avoid breakage and get rid of knots. You can brush your hair when it is dry, but using a product that dampens it a little will help with detangling.
In this case, you can also consider using a detangling brush on wet or damp hair, as it lets you dry your hair faster without a blow dryer.
Suggested Read: Nurture Your Curls: Natural Hair Care Tips for Healthier and Bouncier Hair
Conclusion
Knowing how to care for 2A hair is key to getting beautiful and bouncy waves. Besides following the tips we discussed in this blog, you can rely on curly hair products by Best Life. Our gentle and sulfate-free 2A hair care products nourish and define wavy hair without making it heavy.
With high-quality ingredients, these products can help reduce frizz and add volume. Check out our product range and place an order today to know how our products can help your 2A hair look its best!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1- Is 2A hair type considered curly?
Ans. Earlier, people considered wavy, curly and coily hair types the same. To some, any hair that was not straight was considered curly. But today, many people know that there are various hair types, and each type needs different care.
Although 2A hair is sometimes called 2A curly hair, it is actually a wavy type that sits between straight and curly hair, with the least definition among wavy types.
Related: 3A Hair: What is it and How to Care for it
Q2- How to identify 2A hair?
Ans. Type 2A hair has a gentle wave that may form an S-shape at the ends, with a mostly straight root and mid-length. It appears beachy and less defined than tighter waves, has minimal shrinkage and can become flat if heavy products are used.