Types of Hair Explained with Texture Color and Style

Understanding the different types of hair is the first and most important step toward healthy hair care.

Every person has unique hair, but all hair types can be grouped into clear categories based on texture, curl pattern, thickness, color, condition, and styling.

What Does “Types of Hair” Mean?

When we talk about types of hair, we are not talking about just one thing. Hair type can mean:

The natural shape of the hair strand
How thick or thin the hair is
The color of the hair
How the hair is styled
The condition of the scalp and hair health

Knowing your hair type helps you:

Pick the right shampoo and treatments
Avoid damage and hair loss
Style your hair more easily
Keep your hair healthy for the long term

What Are the Different Types of Hair and How Do They Differ

Each of these types has its own texture, behavior, and care needs, which are explained below.

1. Hair Texture and Curl Pattern

Hair texture refers to the natural shape of your hair strands. This is the most common way to classify hair. Hair texture is genetic and does not change easily.

Type 1: Straight Hair

Straight hair has no curls or waves. It usually looks shiny because scalp oil moves easily from roots to ends. Straight hair can be soft or coarse.

1a Hair

1a hair is very straight, fine, and smooth. It lies flat on the scalp and has very little volume. This hair type does not hold curls well and can become oily quickly.

1b Hair

1b hair is straight but has more body than 1a hair. It can hold light styles and has a bit of natural volume.

1c Hair

1c hair is straight but thick and slightly coarse. It may have small bends and can frizz in humid weather.

Type 2: Wavy Hair

Wavy hair sits between straight and curly hair. It forms loose S-shaped waves and can look flat or frizzy if not cared for properly.

2a Hair

2a hair has loose, soft waves. It is easy to manage and style and usually looks smooth.

2b Hair

2b hair has stronger waves and may frizz easily. It often needs light moisture to stay smooth.

2c Hair

2c hair has deep waves that are close to curls. This hair type is thicker and needs more hydration.

Type 3: Curly Hair

Curly hair forms clear curls or ringlets. It is naturally dry because oils do not move easily down the curls.

3a Hair

3a hair has large, loose curls that are shiny and bouncy. It responds well to moisture-based care.

3b Hair

3b hair has tighter curls with more volume. It may feel dry and needs regular conditioning.

3c Hair

3c hair has very tight curls that shrink when dry. It is delicate and needs gentle handling.

Type 4: Coily Hair

Coily hair has very tight curls or zig-zag patterns. It is the driest hair type and needs deep moisture and protection.

4a Hair

4a hair has small, defined coils. It is soft but fragile.

4b Hair

4b hair has sharp Z-shaped bends and less curl definition.

4c Hair

4c hair has very tight coils with little visible curl pattern. Shrinkage is common, and gentle care is essential.

Coils Hair

Coils hair refers to tightly coiled strands that form spring-like shapes. It overlaps with type 4 hair and benefits from rich moisturizing routines.

2. Hair Thickness and Density

Hair thickness describes the width of each hair strand, while density refers to how many strands grow on your scalp.

Thick Hair

Thick hair has wide strands and often feels heavy and full. It holds styles well but may take longer to wash and dry. Thick hair often needs deep conditioning to stay smooth.

3. Hair Colors

Hair color can be natural or dyed. Color does not change hair texture, but it can affect hair health.

Blonde Hair

Blonde hair ranges from very light to golden shades. It can be natural or dyed and may be more sensitive to damage.

Brunette Hair

Brunette hair includes medium to dark brown shades. It often looks shiny and healthy.

Dark Brown Hair

Dark brown hair is deep and rich in color and is often strong and dense.

Auburn Hair

Auburn hair is a mix of brown and red tones. It is warm and eye-catching.

Red Hair

Red hair ranges from light copper to deep red shades. It is rare naturally and needs color care if dyed.

Pink Hair

Pink hair is a fashion color that can be soft or bold. It needs regular maintenance.

Purple Hair

Purple hair ranges from lavender to deep violet and requires gentle color-safe care.

Silver Hair

Silver hair can be natural or dyed and often needs moisture to prevent dryness.

Burg Hair

Burg hair is a deep burgundy or wine shade that adds richness and depth.

4. Hair Coloring Techniques and Color Styles

These hair types are based on how color is applied, not the color itself.

Balayage Hair

Balayage hair uses hand-painted color for a natural blended look. It grows out softly and needs less frequent touch-ups.

Ombre Hair

Ombre hair fades from darker roots to lighter ends. It is stylish and easy to maintain.

Skunk Hair

Skunk hair features bold, high-contrast streaks that stand out clearly.

Calico Hair

Calico hair mixes multiple colors in separate patches for a creative look.

Brassy Hair

Brassy hair appears yellow or orange due to fading or over-lightening. Proper toning helps reduce brassiness.

Caramel Hair

Caramel hair has warm golden-brown tones that add softness and shine.

5. Hair Styling and Appearance

These hair types describe how hair looks or is styled.

Fluffy Hair

Fluffy hair looks light, soft, and full of volume.

Messy Hair

Messy hair has a relaxed, unstructured look that feels natural.

Shaggy Hair

Shaggy hair has layered ends and a casual appearance.

Tousled Hair

Tousled hair looks gently messy, like hair shaped by wind.

Crimp Hair

Crimp hair has zig-zag waves created by styling tools.

Twist Hair

Twist hair is styled by twisting sections together for definition.

Y2K Hair

Y2K hair includes styles inspired by early 2000s fashion.

Fairy Hair

Fairy hair looks soft and playful with thin, delicate strands.

Wicks Hair

Wicks hair features thick sections separated into bold parts.

6. Hair Condition and Scalp-Related Types

These hair types are based on hair health and scalp behavior.

Greasy Hair

Greasy hair produces excess oil and may look flat. Regular cleansing helps control oil levels.

Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hair grows into the skin instead of outward and can cause irritation.

7. Hair by Ethnicity or Hair System

Some hair types are commonly associated with background or care systems.

Asian Hair

Asian hair is often straight, thick, and strong, with a round strand shape.

CGH Hair

CGH hair refers to hair cared for using curl-friendly routines focused on moisture and gentle care.

How to Identify Your Hair Type

To identify your hair type:

Wash your hair and let it air dry
Do not use styling products
Observe your natural texture and oil level

This will help you understand your true hair type.

Why Knowing Your Hair Type Matters