Before we dive in, there are a few best practices for figuring out your hair type. Your curly hair type starts at the follicle. For example, oval follicles produce curly hair, which is why it’s structurally different from straight hair. Hair thickness matters too, as thicker strands come from thicker follicles.

To determine your curly hair type and pattern, many experts advise washing your hair and letting it air dry naturally with no products or cutting a few strands of wet hair and watching how they dry. You can also chat with your hairstylist for more insight, especially if your hair texture has recently changed and you’re not sure where to begin with styling.

Curly hair types and textures are separated into four different groups in the commonly used system created by hairstylist Andre Walker: Type 1 (straight), Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly) and Type 4 (coily.) Each group is then separated into subgroups from A to C based on the diameter of the wave or curl. Once you know your exact curly hair type and pattern, you find the right Aveda products and styling routines that work best for you.

2A Hair: Subtle waves with a slight S-shape. People with 2A wavy hair often have finer hair that is easily weighed down by styling products. This hair type is easy to straighten.
Product picks: Add volume and oomph to fine hair when styling with this fan favorite volumizing tonic spray.

2B Hair: Medium wavy with a consistent S-shape throughout the hair. If you’re a 2B wavy hair type, your waves will probably start around the mid-lengths versus the roots. This hair type responds well to beachy looks and texture sprays.
Product picks: texture tonic will give your hair grit and define those piece-y, beachy waves.

2C Hair: Strong waves that look more like curls than typical waves, with waves starting right at the root. People with 2C curly hair types frequently deal with frizz and dryness.
Product picks: Protect hair from frizz and enhance curl with be curly advanced™ curl enhancer, a favorite styling cream for waves and curls.

4A Hair: Subtle coils with a defined spiral pattern. These typically have the circumference of a crocheting needle. Be sure to use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, and incorporate a rich, nourishing hair mask into your routine on a regular basis.
Product picks:  nutriplenish™ deep moisture treatment masque is packed with nutrients to deeply condition.

4B Hair: Medium coils with a combo of tiny spirals and Z-shaped coils with the circumference of a toothpick. 4B coily hair is more prone to breakage, so be extra gentle when styling.
Product picks: Show off your shape with be curly advanced™ coil definer gel, which was created with a curl-strengthening peptide to strengthen and fortify fragile strands.

4C Hair: Strong, tight coils with the circumference of a hair pin. 4C coils may require more moisture, so lavish them with nourishing products frequently. 4C hair types are also more prone to shrinkage because the coil is so tight.
Product picks: nutriplenish™ multi-use hair oil and daily moisturizing treatment are enriched with superfoods and lush plant butters for daily moisture when and where you need it.