Indeed, in terms of hair texturing, the possibilities of beauty and variety are almost countless. As for the most frequent types of textures, wavy and curly hair seem to attract curiosity or confusion in most cases.
Both types are beautiful, but they have different cares and styling approaches needed for them. Wavy and curly hair are somewhat similar, but there are quite a few distinctions.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about maintaining and styling wavy and curly hair.
In this article:
What is Wavy Hair?
Wavy hair is found between the straight and curly hair and commonly known as Type 2 hair. It coils round the head forming an “S” shape and is larger than straight hair though not as large as curly hair. Wavy hair can range from very fine and simply wavy to fuller and more defined as in the case of bouncier waves.
Types of Wavy Hair
- Type 2A: This hair type has loose, barely-there waves. It’s easy to straighten and style.
- Type 2B: Waves are more defined, forming a clear “S” shape. It can be prone to frizz.
- Type 2C: This type has thick, coarse waves that are much defined and often prone to frizz.
What is Curly Hair?
Type 3 hair which is curly hair, develops tight curls that form rings or curls. Curly hair is usually thick grow and they can be as loose as most waves, all the way to the tight spirals. This hair type is less moist and tends to go dry quickly, thus it needs to be pampered more.
Types of Curly Hair
- Type 3A: Loose, large curls that are easy to define but can become frizzy.
- Type 3B: Tighter, springy curls with more volume. They need more moisture and definition.
- Type 3C: Corkscrew curls are best described as, tightly curled, compact, and highly textured. They easily become dry and have an issue with frizzy hair.
Key Differences between Wavy Hair and Curly Hair
Texture and Pattern
- Wavy Hair: Takes an “S” like shape and presents waves from loose to tightly distinct.
- Curly Hair: Curls in shapes of rings or spirals: looser to very tight.
Volume and Density
- Wavy Hair: Usually they are less voluminous than curly hair but more than straight hair.
- Curly Hair: It is naturally big breasted, full-bodied hair, a lot of voluminous and bouncy.
Moisture Needs
- Wavy Hair: Often causes frizzy hair and its worse for type 2C hair. Requires lightweight moisture.
- Curly Hair: Tends to be dry and requires more products formulations that provides moisture to the skin.
Styling Tips for Wavy Hair
- Use Lightweight Products: Choose mousses and gels that would give support to your waves without compromising their light feel.
- Avoid Over-Washing: Shampooing hair too frequently can remove the natural oils from the hair which cause the hair strands to become brittle and resulting to frizzy hairs.
- Enhance Waves: Blow dry your hair using a diffuser to improve your natural pattern of waves.
Styling Tips for Curly Hair
- Deep Condition Regularly: Curls should be treated properly that is why you should give attention to the hair’s deep conditioning so it remains moisturized.
- Use Curl Creams and Gels: These product are applied for up keeping curls and reducing the amount of frizz.
- Dry with a Microfiber Towel: Do not use terry cloth towels as they are known to increase the frizz of hair. Rather use a microfiber towel
Hair Care Routines: Wavy Hair vs Curly Hair
Wavy Hair Care Routine
- Shampoo and Condition: Try and avoid sulfate based shampoos and go for a lightweight conditioner.
- Detangle Gently: When hair is wet, avoid using a brush because it will pull through the hair strands and instead use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
- Air Dry or Diffuse: You can either let your hair dry naturally or use a diffuser if you want to improve the waves.
Curly Hair Care Routine
- Co-Wash or Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Co-washing makes it easier to retain the skin moisture. If you like using shampoo, then it is prudent that go for a sulfate free shampoo.
- Condition and Detangle: Treat your hair with a good conditioner and slide your comb through it using the bigger teeth.
- Use Leave-In Conditioner: Here use a leave in conditioner but ensure that your curls are moisturized.
- Define Curls: Smooth curl creams, or gels within your curls using your fingertips.
Embracing Your Natural Texture
It is very important to take time and learn about what wavy hair vs curly hair requires in order to grow and care for healthy hair if you really want to grow curly hair.
Loose waves or tight curls all have that, it shows that a good care routine is what catches the eye. Embrace your natural hair and treat it right so you can conquer the world with the new you.
Final Thoughts
Wavy hair and curly hair are quite distinctive and they come with unique features and grooming procedures.
It can be quite fascinating to know the general differences and subsequently, look after and style your hair appropriately.
Women, as well as men, need to stop trying to have perfect straight hair and rather accept their hair texture, whether wavy or curly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Do I have wavy hair or curly hair?
Identifying your hair type is not always very easy. Wavy hair makes an “S” like pattern while curled hair forms rings or circles. If your hair stands out as looser and less spiraled, then you probably have wavy hair. If it forms tighter curls, then it is curly hair type.
What is the difference between wavy hair and curly hair?
The discrimination is based on texture and pattern. Wavy hair basically has an “S” pattern while curly hair results in curls or rings. Wavy hair is flat and needs a smaller amount of hair products, while curly hair is usually heavier and needs more of moisturization and outlining.
Is wavy hair a type of curly hair?
Wavy hair falls under the category of curly hair most of the time. It can be described as in between straight hair and curly hair since it embodies qualities of the two.
Is wavy and curly hair the same?
Yes, it is clear that wavy hair is not the same as curly hair, although they do come from the same family. Wavy hair has an “S” wave pattern while curly hair has a tight coil or corkscrew like pattern.
Is curly hair better than straight hair?
‘Better’ is comparative and is relative to individual tastes and standards. Curly hair as well as the straight hair is beautiful and has its own potentials as regards styling.
Can wavy hair use curly hair products?
Yes, wavy hair can also use curly hair products although it is advisable to use products with lightweight to enhance the wavy hair look.
Is wavy hair curly hair?
Wavy hair is a type of curly hair, but wavy hair is not as voluminous as it looks tighter curls.
How to make wavy hair curly hair?
To achieve more curls on wavy hair, products and methods that may be effective include using of curling products, diffusing, using of curling iron, twist outs or braid outs.
