Understanding Curl Types
Every SBHM-verified artist is matched to brides based on their curl type expertise. Here's what the numbers and letters actually mean — and why they matter for your wedding day.
What's your curl pattern?
1
Straight
2A
Loose Wave
2B
Defined Wave
2C
Thick Wave
3A
Loose Curl
3B
Medium Curl
3C
Tight Curl
4A
Soft Coil
4B
Z-Coil
4C
Tight Coil
Why curl type matters
Styling wavy, curly, and coily hair requires different techniques, products, and experience to straight hair. An artist who excels with 2A waves may not have the specialist knowledge needed to bring out the best in 4C coils — and vice versa.
Every artist in the SBHM directory is vetted by Natasha specifically for their curl expertise. The curl type badges on each profile tell you exactly which textures they specialise in, so you can find the right match for your hair from the start.
Type 2 — Wavy
Wavy hair has a natural S-shape that sits between straight and curly. It tends to hold styles well but can be prone to frizz in humidity.
Fine, thin waves with a gentle S that lies fairly flat. Responds well to lightweight styling. Easy to straighten or enhance into more defined waves.
Medium waves with a more pronounced S-shape and some frizz around the crown. Benefits from curl-enhancing products and diffusing.
Thick, coarse waves with a strong S-shape that borders on curly. Prone to frizz and needs moisture to stay defined. Responds well to curl creams.
Type 3 — Curly
Curly hair forms defined loops or spirals. It is naturally drier than straight hair, prone to frizz, and requires specialist knowledge to style beautifully.
Large, loose corkscrews about the diameter of a wine cork. Shiny and springy with a well-defined pattern. Can be styled into smooth blowouts or enhanced curls.
Tighter ringlets about the width of a marker pen. Denser than 3A with more volume and spring. Needs good moisture balance to avoid frizz on the day.
Very tight corkscrews or ringlets, similar in width to a pencil. Densely packed, with significant volume. Requires deep moisture and careful handling to avoid disrupting the curl pattern.
Type 4 — Coily
Coily hair has a tight, zig-zag or spring-like pattern. It is the most fragile hair type and the most prone to dryness — but also the most versatile in the hands of a skilled artist.
Tightly coiled with a visible S or O pattern, roughly the width of a knitting needle. Retains moisture better than 4B/4C. Can be worn naturally or stretched into beautiful defined styles.
A sharp, Z-shaped bend rather than a defined coil. Less visible curl pattern, high density and volume. Requires thorough moisturising and a gentle touch. Versatile for updos and protective styles.
The tightest coil pattern, with little to no visible curl definition without product. Highly shrinks when dry. Needs the most moisture and the most specialist knowledge — and looks extraordinary when styled by the right artist.
Find your perfect match
Use the curl type filter in our artist directory, or let Natasha personally match you with an artist who specialises in your hair texture.