Yes, a wave is considered a type of curl pattern. Curl patterns are categorized into different types, with waves (Type 2) falling between straight (Type 1) and curly (Type 3) hair. While waves may appear less defined than tighter curls (Type 3 and Type 4), they still exhibit a distinct "S" shape or loose curl formation, fitting the definition of a curl pattern. The degree of curl definition varies, with some waves forming looser, more undefined S-shapes, while others display tighter waves.
Several sources confirm this:
- Allure's Curl Hair Type Guide categorizes hair types: Type 1 (straight), Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily). https://www.allure.com/gallery/curl-hair-type-guide
- Quora explicitly states that wavy hair is a type of curl pattern. https://www.quora.com/Is-wavy-hair-considered-a-type-of-curl-pattern-Can-I-have-more-than-one-wave-curl-pattern-in-my-hair
- Reddit discussions on curly hair frequently discuss waves as a part of the curl spectrum. https://www.reddit.com/r/curlyhair/comments/1ale2zy/would_you_say_these_are_waves_or_curls/ https://www.reddit.com/r/Haircare/comments/17jx19z/i_have_the_ugliest_wavecurl_pattern_ever_and_idk/
- Wavy Hair Care websites provide detailed explanations and charts demonstrating different wavy curl patterns. https://wavyhaircare.com/wavy-hair-curl-patterns-explained-wavy-hair-chart/
In short, the defining characteristic of a curl pattern is the presence of a wave or curl in the hair shaft. Wavy hair clearly demonstrates this, making it a part of the curl pattern spectrum.
