Log in
Do you have coily hair but you're unsure how to take care of it? Regardless of hair type, knowing how to take care of your hair is crucial to having stunning locks. Because of this, we've created a comprehensive guide to coily hair, including everything from what it is to how to maintain it.
What Is Coily Hair?
Credit: Envato Elements/ wayhomestudio
Coily hair is a particularly voluminous hair type. It is also referred to as Type 4 or kinky hair. People that have naturally coily hair have coils or curls that follow a zigzag pattern from the scalp. The texture of this hair type is particularly dry and spongy. Based on the size of the hair pattern, there are three subgroups within the coily hair type:
Type 4A: Coils of type 4A are around the size of a crochet needle and have an S shape. The texture of this hair type is less dense and less tight than other coily hair types.
Type 4B: Unlike other Type 4 hair types, 4B hair has zigzag-shaped curls as opposed to S-shaped curls. This hair type has smaller, more compact curls than 4A hair, giving the impression that it is shorter.
Type 4C: Of all the type 4 hair types, 4C is the densest and most compact. This hair type is the easiest to style into afro hairstyles because it grows horizontally and defies the laws of gravity.
The Difference Between Curly and Coily Hair
Credit: Envato Elements/ Mint_Images
Although the term "curly" is frequently used to refer to all textured hair types, there are several key distinctions between coily and curly hair types. Compared to coils, curls are less dry and have a more distinct S shape. This is because the numerous tiny twists and bends in coily hair make it difficult for natural oils generated by the scalp to lubricate the hair shaft.
Another difference between the two is that while coily hair will naturally curl back on itself, curly hair does not. Additionally, curly hair does not easily lose its shape.
How To Take Care of Coily Hair
Coily curls are more delicate than other hair textures and because of this, they need special attention. Below are some ways in which you can take of your coily hair type:
1) Add Hydration
Credit: Envato Elements/ FlamingoImages
Hydration is very important when taking care of coily hair. It's typical for this hair type to be on the drier side due to its volume. As a result, it's best to frequently condition your hair using a leave-in product that can be absorbed before, during, or after a shower. Make sure that you use products that contain ingredients like argan oil or shea butter to keep it hydrated all day.
You can also consider hydrating your hair with water. You can do this at least once every week. Damp hair will absorb any product you have applied to your coils and is less likely to get frizzy.
2) Avoid Using Sulphates and Over-Shampooing
Credit: Envato Elements/ photopopova
No matter what sort of hair you have, it is generally advised to avoid products that contain sulfates since they can strip and mess with your scalp's microbiota.
Additionally, avoid over-shampooing if you have coily hair. Consider co-washing. Co-washing is the practice of using solely conditioners. It allows you to gently wash your hair without using drying ingredients that can damage hair follicles and hair cuticles.
3) Avoid Heat Styling
Credit: Envato Elements/ Dream79
Because coily hair has fewer cuticle layers than curly, straight, and wavy hair, it is often more delicate. As a result, you should refrain from using any hot tools on it. Heat styling can result in split ends, damage, shedding, and loss of curl pattern. If you plan to use any hot tools on it, make sure to always use a heat protectant.
4) Promote Healthy Hair Growth
Credit: Envato Elements/ evablanco
Coily hair is prone to breakage, so you should try to promote healthy hair growth. You can do this by paying attention to your nutrition, which can have an impact on the condition of your hair, giving yourself regular scalp massages to increase blood flow, and applying topical products containing botanicals that promote healthy hair (like rosemary and tea).
How Do You Style Coily Hair?
Even though it might seem easy, styling coily hair can be really difficult. Below are some styling tips for coily hair:
1) Try Finger Coils if Your Hair Is Short and Coily
Credit: Refinery29
Finger coils refer to creating distinct coils throughout your mane by twirling or coiling small hair strands around your finger while using a lot of product. With the appropriate maintenance, these can last for several days.
2) Try Flat-Twist Outs if You Have Medium-Coiling Hair
Credit: Envato Elements/ Rawpixel
This involves flat twisting sections to create defined coils. This technique can also be used to style long hair.
3) Try a Braid if You Have Long, Coily Hair
Credit: Envato Elements/ Curl Maven
To do this, divide your hair into small portions and braid them while adding additional hair as you go. Remove the braids in the morning to reveal your coily texture.
Summary
Coily hair is very versatile but it can be difficult to manage if you don't give it the proper care and attention. Understanding your coily hair and giving it the perfect amount of moisture can significantly change your hair game. This hair type like most types of thick hair needs a sturdy hair tie to hold it in place. If you've been looking for hair ties for your coily hair, check out Burlybands.
