Hair comes in all types. Curly, wavy, straight, kinky—you name it. Each type is so unique, and because of that, certain accessories work better for some than others. That does not mean there’s a clear cut rule on which accessory to use. There are just certain accessories that might work better for your hair type and will dramatically affect the way you look. Here’s a complete guide to help you out. 

What Are the Different Hair Types?

Hair type is basically the natural pattern or texture of your hair, and it’s mostly determined by your genetics. Some people have more than one type on their head. There are typically 4 hair types witch each type further being divided into 3 types based on thickness and curl pattern.

Type 1: Straight Hair

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This hair type doesn’t have a natural curl or wave. It’s known for being naturally super shiny since oils from the scalp can easily coat the strands. 

1A: This is the flattest and finest type of hair. It’s super straight, with no volume or body. It’s also really soft and can be prone to looking greasy quickly.

1B: Type 1B is slightly thicker than 1A. You might notice some natural movement at the ends, making it look less flat overall.

1C: This subtype has the most texture of the straight hair types. It’s coarse, thicker, and may even have a slight wave. Type 1C tends to be less shiny and more resistant to styling compared to 1A and 1B.

Type 2: Wavy Hair

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Wavy hair falls between straight and curly. It has a natural “S” shape. It’s got more texture than straight hair but isn’t as bouncy as curls. 

2A: This is the loosest type of wave. The strands are fine and soft, with a barely-there “S” shape. It’s pretty easy to style and doesn’t have as much frizz, but it can go flat easily if you use heavy products.

2B: The waves are more defined here. They usually start mid-length. This type has more texture and can get frizzy, especially in humid weather. It’s a little harder to straighten compared to 2A.

2C: These waves are thick, coarse, and well-defined. They start right at the roots. They’re super prone to frizz and dryness, so moisture is key to keeping them under control.

Type 3: Curly Hair

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Curly hair has natural ringlets or spirals. It’s drier because oils can’t travel down the twists, so hydration is everything. 

3A: These curls are big, loose, and shiny. They have a lot of bounce and tend to be less frizzy. Styling is easier, but they can sometimes lose their definition without the right products.

3B: These are tighter, springy curls that hold their shape better. They’re more voluminous but can get frizzier. 

3C: These look just like tight corkscrews! The curls are super defined and have a ton of volume. They’re coarse and dry.

Type 4: Kinky/Coily Hair

Credit: Envato Elements/ Retamosastock

Kinky or coily hair has the tightest curl pattern. They form tiny coils or zig-zag shapes. They’re fragile and can shrink a lot, which makes them look shorter than they are. 

4A: This type has defined, tight coils that hold moisture better than other Type 4 hair. The curls have a springy “O” shape. They look super bouncy.

4B: These curls are more “Z” shaped than coiled. They’re less defined and tend to be drier.

4C: These are the tightest of them all! The coils are super dense and can shrink up to 75% of their actual length. 

The Best Accessories for Your Hair Type

Here’s a rundown of the best accessories for your hair type:

Type 1

Straight hair is smooth which means it doesn’t need heavy-duty accessories to tame it. Use simple claw clips and minimalist hairpins. Headbands are also a great option, especially if your hair is prone to getting oily. If you want some volume, velcro rollers or a teasing comb can help add lift at the roots. 

Type 2

Wavy hair can sometimes be a little unpredictable, so you need accessories that can tame it. Go for flexible hair ties like spiral bands and banana clips for creating loose updos. To keep flyaways at bay, try using silk scarves or soft headbands. 

Type 3

Curly hair needs accessories that enhance its bounce. Silk or satin scrunchies are perfect. For days when you want to rock an updo, banana clips, jaw clips or puff cuffs are a great option. To keep your curls protected overnight, use a silk scarf or a satin bonnet.

Type 4

Puff cuffs and wide hairbands are perfect for kinky hair. For ponytails and buns, go for stretchy hair ties or coiled elastic bands. If you love protective styles, decorative hair cuffs or beads can add the style to hair style.

Summary

No matter your hair type, always choose accessories that are gentle and don’t pull, snag, or cause tension. Your hair deserves to look great and stay healthy! 

Looking for the perfect hair tie? Check out Burlybands. They’re designed to hold your hair securely without breaking or pulling, whether your hair is thick, curly, or super fine. Shop with us today.