Discover Your Natural Hair Type

Did you know that there are twelve different hair types? Whether you have sleek straight strands, bouncy curls or something in between, your hair type is an essential part of what makes you you. 

Much like understanding your skin type is important for building an effective skincare routine, knowing your specific hair type is essential for proper care and styling, allowing you to bring out your hair’s fullest potential. However with a variety of textures, thicknesses and patterns, figuring which type you have may seem like an intimidating task, but we are here to help.  

The first step to discovering the best way to care for and style your hair is to know your natural hair pattern - introducing our ultimate guide to hair types.  

Understanding Hair Patterns 

There are four main hair patterns, which refer to the natural shape of your hair strand: 

1. Straight Hair (Type 1) 

• Straight hair lies flat on the scalp with little to no pattern. Hair’s natural oils can easily travel from scalp to the ends, creating the most shine out of all the hair types. 

2. Wavy Hair (Type 2) 

• Forms a gorgeous “S” shape. Wavy hair is thicker than straight with a slight texture and shape, making it less oily. 

3. Curly Hair (Type 3) 

• Ranges from stunning loose, bouncy loops to tight, springy ringlets with a tendency to frizz. This hair type tends to be more voluminous than straight and wavy hair. 

4. Coily Hair (Type 4) 

• Tightly curled with beautiful defined ringlets and zigzags, maintaining its hair type whether it is dry or wet. Coarse in texture and more fragile. 

Discovering Your Natural Hair Type 

Follow these quick and easy steps to find out your natural hair type: 

Wash your hair and allow it to air-dry without any products to help you define the natural shape or pattern of your strands: 

• Straight (1):  Dries without any bends or curls 

• Wavy (2):  Dries with a slight curve or bends or an “S” shape 

• Curly (3): Dries with defined curls and loops 

• Tight Curly (4):  Dries with tight curls or compacted spirals 

Understanding Hair Texture 

Hair texture refers to the thickness of an individual hair strand and affects how well your hair holds different hairstyles. There are three main hair textures: 

• Fine (Type A):  Looks and feels delicate and generally does hold curls

• Medium (Type B):  Easy to style and holds onto curls for longer

• Coarse (Type C):  Holds curls well but can be difficult to style as it’s typically less flexible  

Discovering Your Natural Hair Texture 

To identify your hair texture: 

Roll a single strand of hair between your fingers 

• Fine:  If you don’t feel anything 

• Medium:  If you slightly feel it 

• Coarse:  If you feel it clearly 

Hair Types and Textures – a summary  

Discovering your natural hair type is the first step towards achieving healthy, beautiful hair. By understanding your hair’s unique pattern, texture, and porosity, you can choose the right products and care routines to enhance its natural beauty.  

At Umberto Giannini, we celebrate all hair types and are here to help you embrace your natural texture. Want a personalised hair consultation? Our-in house salon team have created an easy quiz to help us create a personalised product regime perfect for your hair type and needs.