Here’s Exactly How to Identify Your Curl Pattern

How can you identify your curl pattern? And why would you even need to?

When you take your free Prose consultation, we ask for your curl pattern so that we can provide the right formula. Each pattern needs different products to keep your hair fresh and healthy. Identifying your pattern by using a curl types chart gives you a shortcut to finding shampoos, conditioners, masks and supplements that nourish your hair.

Here’s how you can find your pattern plus some inside info on how you can cater to your hair using Prose products.

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    How Do You Find Your Curl Pattern?

    Your curl pattern refers to your hair’s shape and texture. Type 1 hair is straight. After that, patterns range from wavy to coily, with different levels in between. Your hair might not fall exactly into a predetermined pattern, but finding your hair’s place on the spectrum provides a starting point.

    The shape of the hair follicle determines your hair’s curliness. Round follicles usually produce straight hair. If you have oval or curved follicles, your hair grows in waves or curls. Cell proteins and chemical bonds in your hair can also influence the pattern.

    Luckily, you don’t need to study your follicles under a microscope to meet your hair goals. Pull out a few strands of hair when you emerge from the shower, and let them dry on a flat surface. Use our curl types chart to match your hair’s natural shape to these defined patterns.

    curly hair type

    What Are the Different Curl Types?

    Type 2: Wavy

    Wavy hair features soft curves that frame your face. Typically, wavy hair is straight when you get it wet and then forms its natural shape as it dries. Here’s a breakdown of the Type 2 patterns:

     

    Type 2 hair offers a subtle, natural look without extra styling. Use a natural shampoo and conditioner that accentuates your waves.

    Type 3: Curly

    Curly hair swirls and makes corkscrew shapes that can be loose and bouncy or closely defined. Type 3 hair can look wavy when it’s wet and then tighten into curls when it dries. Here’s a look at the Type 3 patterns:

     

    If you have an at-home spa day, include Prose products that moisturize your curls. Tighter curls are more likely to dry out and experience breakage. Use a gentle detangling comb to preserve your hair’s natural bounce.

    Type 4: Coily

    Coily hair can have ringlets, tight S-shapes and zigzags. Your curls might loosen when they’re wet and tighten into coils when they dry. Here’s how the Type 4 patterns break down:

     

    Moisturize your hair to keep the strands hydrated and less prone to breakage.

    Take extra steps to protect coiled hair from damage-causing UV rays.

    Get Your Customized Formula

    Start your free consultation today to get products formulated for your hair type. We’ll ask questions about your hair’s texture, thickness  your care and styling regimen and your lifestyle and preferences. Once you complete the quiz, you’ll get customized recommendations for hair care products, such as shampoo, conditioner and hair masks, that you can buy immediately or save for later.

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