Curly Hair (Type 3): Discipline, Definition, Hydration
Curly method, sulfate-free products, and key techniques for type 3A, 3B, 3C
Curly hair (type 3A/3B/3C) forms spiral curls. The Curly Girl method bans sulfates and insoluble silicones. Key routine: co-wash, squish to condish conditioner, defining gel on soaking wet hair, plopping/cold diffuser drying, daily reactivation with water + leave-in spray.
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Type 3: precise diagnosis
Curly hair forms well-defined spiral curls. Three sub-types: 3A (large, loose curls), 3B (tight, corkscrew curls), 3C (dense curls close to coily). Each sub-type requires a different amount of hydration and protein.
The Curly Girl method
Developed by Lorraine Massey, the Curly Girl method bans sulfates, insoluble silicones, drying alcohols, and heat. It is based on: co-wash, detangling conditioner applied using squish to condish, defining gel on soaking wet hair, plopping or cold diffuser drying.
Recommended products
- Hydrating co-wash without sulfate for between washes
- Conditioner rich in glycerine and vegetable butters
- Light leave-in based on aloe vera
- Defining gel to create a cast (protective shell) that sets the curl as it dries
Daily anti-frizz routine
In the morning, reactivate curls with a water + leave-in spray, without re-manipulating. Avoid touching hair until it is 100% dry to preserve definition. SOTC (scrunch out the crunch) breaks the gel cast once dry to regain softness.
Long-term maintenance
Regular trims every 3 months to eliminate split ends, weekly hydrating mask, satin bonnet at night. A monthly oil bath (jojoba, argan) prevents structural dehydration.
Frequently asked questions
Rédaction ULTRALISS
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L'équipe éditoriale d'ULTRALISS réunit coiffeurs experts, formateurs et rédacteurs spécialisés dans les soins capillaires professionnels pour cheveux texturés.