Type 3 hair is curly hair, ranging from loose waves to tight, springy corkscrews. It's characterized by a well-defined S-shape and generally needs more moisture than other hair types to stay defined and healthy. The curls are bouncy and can have significant volume. Within Type 3, there are further sub-categories (3A, 3B, and 3C) that denote differences in curl size and density.
Understanding Type 3 Hair Sub-categories:
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3A: This subtype features loose, defined S-shaped curls, often described as loose spirals or large bouncy curls. They are generally the loosest of the Type 3 curls.
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3B: 3B hair boasts thicker curls than 3A, with a tighter spiral pattern. These curls are often described as medium-sized corkscrews and tend to have a higher porosity and density, requiring ample moisture.
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3C: This category includes the tightest curls in the Type 3 spectrum. They're often small, springy corkscrews that pack closely together and tend to be very voluminous. These curls are also usually high in porosity, necessitating consistent moisturizing.
Think of it like this: imagine a sidewalk chalk, a marker, and a highlighter. Type 3A curls are like the chalk (loose), 3B is like the marker (medium-tight), and 3C is like the highlighter (tight). This is a helpful visual to understand the curl size differences.
Caring for Type 3 Hair:
Because of its porosity and tendency to dryness, Type 3 hair thrives on moisturizing products. Using hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments is crucial for maintaining healthy, defined curls. Regular deep conditioning is also recommended.
The specific products and techniques needed will vary based on the specific subtype (3A, 3B, or 3C) and individual hair characteristics.
