If you’ve been on your natural hair journey longer than five minutes you have more than likely heard this term or have been asked this question, “What’s Your Hair Type?”
Hair Typing was introduced to the natural hair community way back in the 1990’s by celebrity hairstylist Andre Walker. Don’t worry, no history lesson on Andre Walker, but I’d like to point out that he has been the hairstylist to Oprah ‘Queen of Chicago’ Winfrey for over 25 years. The man knows his stuff!
What is hair typing? The Andre Walker Hair Typing System gives a simple, yet general approach to understanding your texture and how to take the best care of your hair. Also known as, ‘curl type’, this system offers a point a reference; no way should be viewed as separating people into different groups.
Note: This doesn’t imply that Andre Walker’s system is necessarily the best or most accurate.
Curl Type At a Glance
Type 1a-2C: Straight YU (Fine/Thin& Wavy Hair)
Don’t get me wrong, straight and wavy hair are beautiful, buttttt I’d rather focus on curly, coily & kinky hair. If you’re interested in these hair types, you can visit NaturallyCurly.com for specific tips on this section.
Type 3A-3C: Curly YU (Loose ‘S’ curls; Tight Curls; Corkscrew; ) Thick & full indeed! This hair type tends to frizz, especially in humid conditions. Thus, prone to dryness and damage, if not properly nurtured. Keyword: NURTURED (unless you just like having dull looking curls).
Type 3 
Type 3 
Type 3
Type 4A-C: Kinky/Coily YU (Wiggly, Springy Curls) Sis? I know you think your texture looks strong and mighty, but nah it is wiry, and fragile. Each strand usually has a zigzag pattern. This texture range is known to be the driest. Thus, you guessed it, subject to more breakage and requires patience. Quickly, text a fellow kinky curl friend and reassure her that OUR HAIR DOES GROW, with a little patience (it’s so important, I said it twice) and gentle hand. Hair can range from fine, thin, soft– coarse. I love my kinky, coily hair but let’s be honest, the shrinkage IS REAL!
Type 4 
Type 4 
Type 4