Understanding Hair Texture Types

When it comes to hair care, one size does not fit all. Understanding your hair’s unique texture and type is the first step to achieving healthy, beautiful hair. At Lisa Brown SalonSpa, we believe that knowing your hair texture and type empowers you to choose the right products, styles and treatments that work best for you.

What Is Hair Texture?

Hair texture refers to the thickness, feel, and natural pattern of individual hair strands. It tells you whether your hair is fine, medium or coarse. Hair texture affects how your hair responds to products, styling tools and treatments.

Main hair textures include:

Fine Hair

Fine hair is soft, delicate and thin in diameter, which makes it lightweight but also more prone to breakage and damage. Because the strands are small, fine hair can sometimes appear flat or limp, especially near the roots. Styling fine hair requires care—too much heat or heavy products can weigh it down or cause breakage. The key to keeping fine hair healthy and voluminous is lightweight shampoos and conditioners, volumizing products and gentle styling techniques that add body without damaging the strands. Regular trims are essential to prevent split ends and maintain a fresh look.

Medium Hair

Medium hair is the most versatile hair texture, with strands thicker than fine hair but not as dense as coarse hair. It tends to hold styles well and responds easily to coloring, curling and straightening. Medium hair is generally stronger and less prone to breakage than fine hair, making it easier to manage. However, it still benefits from proper hydration and care to maintain shine and elasticity. Styling products can be used liberally without weighing the hair down, and this texture is ideal for a wide range of cuts and hairstyles.

Coarse Hair

Coarse hair has thicker, more robust strands and is strong, dense and often more resistant to styling. Because of its thickness, it tends to require more moisture to stay soft and manageable.
Coarse hair can appear dry or frizzy if not properly cared for, but with the right hydration and smoothing treatments, it can hold styles beautifully and look naturally voluminous. Protective styles, deep conditioning and nourishing oils are essential to maintain health, prevent breakage and enhance shine.

What Is Hair Type?

Hair type refers to the curl pattern of your hair. It’s usually categorized into four main types, ranging from straight to coily:

Straight Hair (Type 1)

Straight hair lies flat from the roots to the tips and reflects light well, giving it a natural shine. It can range from fine to coarse and is generally easy to manage but can get oily quickly. Styling often focuses on adding volume and texture.

Wavy Hair (Type 2)

Wavy hair falls somewhere between straight and curly. It forms gentle waves and can vary from loose, subtle waves (2A) to more defined S-shaped waves (2C). Wavy hair tends to frizz more easily, so moisturizing products and light styling creams help maintain smoothness.

Curly Hair (Type 3)

Curly hair has a distinct curl pattern, ranging from loose loops (3A) to tight spirals (3C). Curly hair is prone to dryness because natural oils have a harder time traveling down the twists. Hydrating shampoos, conditioners and curl-enhancing products are essential for healthy curls.

Coily Hair (Type 4)

Coily hair forms tight coils or zig-zag patterns. It’s often very fragile and requires gentle care. Moisture-rich products, protective styles and regular deep conditioning treatments are key to maintaining elasticity and preventing breakage.

Why Knowing Your Hair Texture Matters

Understanding your hair texture allows you to:

• Choose the right products: Not all shampoos, conditioners and styling products work for every hair type.
• Prevent damage: Using the wrong tools or products can lead to dryness, breakage or frizz.
• Enhance your natural beauty: Embracing your hair’s natural texture helps you find styles that complement your features.

Get the Perfect Style for Your Hair at Lisa Brown SalonSpa

At Lisa Brown SalonSpa, our expert stylists assess your hair texture and type during consultations to recommend customized treatments, color services and styling techniques tailored to you. Whether you’re looking to enhance shine, boost volume or define your natural pattern, we help you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful hair yet. Book your consultation today.