Curl pattern guide

Most curly-hair shoppers describe their hair with a number and a letter, from 2A to 4C. The number is the family (2 wavy, 3 curly, 4 coily) and the letter is how tight the pattern is within it. Many heads of hair have more than one pattern, so pick the one you see most.

Wavy: 2A, 2B, 2C

S-shaped waves that lie closer to the head. 2A is loose and fine, 2C is defined with some frizz. Waves are easily weighed down, so choose lightweight products.

Curly: 3A, 3B, 3C

Defined loops and spirals, from loose 3A loops to tight 3C corkscrews. Curls love moisture plus a styler that clumps them together.

Coily: 4A, 4B, 4C

Tight coils and zigzags with lots of shrinkage. Coily hair needs the most moisture: rich leave-ins, butters and gentle detangling.

Still unsure? Send us a photo on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose.