Type 3C hair: Everything you need to know

If you find that your hair boasts tight curls with strands densely packed together, prone to dryness and noticeable shrinkage, and you struggle more with moisture retention compared to other curly hair types, then you probably have 3C hair. This type of curly hair is fragile and requires added moisture and gentle treatment to maintain its health and beauty. Understanding your hair type is crucial as it guides the care and styles that best suit your natural curls. 3C hair, a curly hair type that exists between the looser 3B and the tighter 4A, is marked by its tightly curled structure but with a noticeable s-shaped pattern when stretched. Unlike 4A hair, which tends to have a more tightly coiled zigzag pattern and high shrinkage, 3C curls are less tightly curled and show more volume and less sheen than 3B curls, requiring unique care approaches to maintain its health and definition.

What is type 3C hair

Unlike the looser spirals of Type 3B, 3C curls are smaller and packed closely together, giving a highly textured look that’s both voluminous and prone to frizz. People with 3C hair often experience a mixture of curl patterns and hair textures, generally tending towards medium thickness but can vary from very dry to moderately moisturised. In this guide, we’ll focus on how to manage 3C hair that tends towards being thicker, a bit dryer, and more susceptible to frizz, enhancing its natural charm and vibrancy.

What is the difference between 3C and other curl patterns?

3C hair, a curly hair type that exists between the looser 3B and the tighter 4A. Type 3C hair features tightly packed curls that are denser and more voluminous compared to 3B hair, which typically has looser and glossier curls. The curl pattern of 3C hair is more compact, making it prone to more frizz and requiring careful moisture management.

In contrast, 4A hair is well-defined and springy but can appear more kinky than curly. Both 3C and 4A types showcase a rich, natural texture that demands specific care routines to enhance and maintain their unique curl patterns. 3C curls are less tightly curled and show more volume and less sheen than 3B curls, requiring unique care approaches to maintain its health and definition.

How to take care of 3C hair

The vitality of natural hair, especially 3C hair, hinges on intense hydration. This curly hair type is naturally prone to dryness due to its tight curl pattern which can prevent scalp oils from travelling down the hair shaft. Emphasising hydration, using products like a good Hair Mask, can significantly improve hair health. Here’s how to keep your 3C curls deeply nourished:

Imagine beginning your weekend with the ritual of using a hair mask on your 3C curls. You select the rich, hydro hug hair mask , known for its ability to restore elasticity and infuse moisture back into thirsty curls. As you apply the conditioner evenly on damp hair, you envelop each strand with care, ensuring every coil is coated. Covering your hair with a heat cap, you allow the warmth to enhance the penetration of the moisturising ingredients deep into the hair shaft, mimicking a spa treatment that revives the soul of your hair.

During the week, your cleansing routine is just as nurturing. You reach for your sulfate-free shampoo, a formula free from harsh detergents that strip hair of its natural oils. This shampoo cleanses gently, maintaining the delicate moisture balance essential for your curls’ vitality and shine. Between shampoo days, you engage in co-washing—a method that uses conditioner to cleanse, allowing you to refresh your hair and scalp without over-stripping, thus preserving moisture and promoting long-term scalp health.

Wash and go

Sulfate-Free Shampoo: When it’s time to cleanse, reach for a sulfate-free shampoo like our clarifying shampoo. Applying products to wet hair enhances moisture, smoothness, and manageability. This shampoo is kinder on your curls because it cleans without taking away the natural oils your hair loves. This keeps your curls soft and manageable.

Co-Washing: In between shampoo days, co-wash to refresh your hair without harshness. It’s like a quick rinse that keeps your scalp healthy and your hair hydrated without the fuss.

Hair mask: Make it a pamper day once a week with our favorite Hydro Hug Hydration Hair mask. Spread it generously through your damp hair, making sure every curl gets some love. Pop on a heat cap to help the moisture soak in even deeper. Think of it as a spa day for your curls, leaving them bouncy and happy.

How do I keep my 3C hair curly for a few days?

Techniques: After washing, take our microfiber towel and pat your hair gently. This helps avoid frizz and keeps your curls tight.

Tools: Grab your trusty Denman brush to define those curls, a wide-tooth comb for gently detangling, and a detangle brush to smooth out any stubborn knots. They’re your best friends on styling days.

Products: Start with our styling milk to give your curls a hydrating base. Then, add our curl-defining gel to seal in the moisture and keep those curls defined all day long.

Before bed, slip on our satin cap. This simple step fights off breakage and keeps your curls fresh while you sleep. For more tips on how to sleep with curly hair or how to refresh your curly hair read our blog.

Essential products for 3C Hair and natural oils

Scalp care is essential for maintaining healthy hair growth and overall hair health. Very curly with its distinctive spiral pattern of curls, requires specific care to prevent breakage, dryness, and tangles. Proper scalp care involves regular cleansing to remove product buildup, oil, and dirt, which can clog pores and inhibit hair growth. Using gentle, sulfate-free shampoos can help maintain the natural balance of oils without stripping the scalp. Additionally, incorporating scalp massages can stimulate blood circulation, promoting healthier hair growth. It’s also important to use products that address specific scalp issues, such as dandruff or dryness, to keep the scalp environment healthy and supportive of hair growth.

Protective hairstyling and minimizing shrinkage

For those with 3C hair, embracing protective styles such as twist-outs, braid-outs, and high buns is more than a fashion statement—they’re a critical aspect of a healthy hair care regimen. These styles are not only easy to manage, but also crucial for minimising breakage and maintaining moisture, especially under the challenging conditions of both dry winter climates and hot summer days. Integrating these styles into your routine helps shield your curls from environmental stressors while keeping them hydrated and healthy.

Shrinkage is a common characteristic of 3C hair, often causing your locks to appear much shorter than they actually are. Utilise styles like braid-outs or twist-outs. These not only help protect your curls combats shrinkage gently but also allow you to flaunt your natural curl pattern without compromising the health of your hair.

Healthy hair begins from the inside out. Including nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C, E, and A, and proteins in your diet can enhance hair strength and growth. Foods like salmon, avocados, nuts, and berries are great for promoting vibrant, healthy hair.

Embrace your curls and hair texture

Embrace your natural 3C curls by understanding their unique needs and challenges. Different hair types, including straight hair, have varying porosity levels that affect moisture retention and product selection for hair care and styling. With the right care, styling techniques, and nutrition, your curls can flourish, showing off their natural beauty and strength. Remember, each curl is a signature of your personal style, and taking care of them is part of expressing your individuality.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your 3C curls are always nourished, defined, and ready to shine. The Curly Girl Method is all about loving your natural curls and treating them with the care they deserve.