Type 3 Hair Guide: Identify Your Curl Type (3A, 3B, 3C) & Best Care Tips

Introduction

Curls are as beautiful as they are diverse. If you’ve ever tried to figure out your curl type, you’ve probably come across the term Type 3 curls — a category that encompasses a wide range of curly hair textures.

Whether you have 3A curls, 3B curls, or 3C curls, understanding your hair type is the first step to choosing the right products, styles, and care routine. In this guide, we’ll help you identify your curl pattern, pick the look that fits your vibe, and nurture your curls to their full potential.

What’s Type 3 Curls?

Type 3 curls are part of the Andre Walker Hair Typing System and represent true curly hair. Unlike wavy Type 2 hair or coily Type 4 hair, Type 3 strands form well-defined spiral curls from root to tip. These curls are springy, voluminous, and prone to frizz — especially in humid weather.

The Type 3 curl family is divided into three main subtypes:

• 3A curls: Big, loose, S-shaped spirals.
• 3B curls: Bouncy ringlets with more volume and tighter coils.
• 3C curls: Dense, corkscrew-shaped curls with lots of shrinkage and texture.

The Differences Between 3A, 3B, and 3C Curls

3A Curls
- Shape: Looser S-shaped curls about the width of sidewalk chalk.
- Texture: Fine and silky, with more shine than the others.
- Volume: Light to medium; can fall flat without the right styling.
- Common issues: Frizz and lack of definition.

3B Curls
- Shape: Springy ringlets, roughly the size of a Sharpie.
- Texture: Medium-coarse, more defined and voluminous than 3A.
- Volume: Naturally full with a lot of bounce.
- Common issues: Dryness and frizz in humid climates.

3C Curls
- Shape: Tight corkscrews, about the diameter of a pencil or straw.
- Texture: Dense and coarse with the most shrinkage among the three.
- Volume: Very high; hair appears fuller and thicker.
- Common issues: Tangling, dryness, and shrinkage.

Which Curl Type Suits You Best?

While curl type is mostly genetic, people often use heat styling or chemical treatments to emulate a curl pattern they love. So if you're exploring which curl type matches your vibe, here's how to consider it:

• 3A curls: A relaxed, romantic look — perfect for beginners in curl care.
• 3B curls: Big, bold, bouncy curls for maximum character.
• 3C curls: Dense, defined, and full of texture — ideal for high-volume looks.

There’s no “better” curl type — just the one that makes you feel confident and authentic.

Pros and Cons of 3A, 3B, and 3C Curls

3A Curls:
- Pros: Soft, easy to detangle, great shine
- Cons: Can fall flat, loses curl easily

3B Curls:
- Pros: Full-bodied, defined curls, bouncy
- Cons: Prone to frizz and dryness

3C Curls:
- Pros: High volume, strong curl pattern
- Cons: Shrinkage, tangles, needs more moisture

How to Take Care of 3A, 3B, and 3C Curls

General Tips for All Type 3 Curls:

• Use sulfate-free shampoos to prevent dryness
• Deep condition weekly
• Apply leave-ins or curl creams on damp hair
• Avoid excessive heat styling
• Sleep with a satin bonnet or on a satin pillowcase

Specific Tips:

3A Curls: Lightweight products, mousse or gel for definition, diffuse on low.

3B Curls: Hydrating curl creams, oils for sealing, finger-coiling works well.

3C Curls: Rich creams, LOC method, gentle detangling with fingers or wide-tooth comb.

Final Words

Your curls are a unique expression of your identity. Whether you have 3A, 3B, or 3C curls, you can enhance your natural texture with the right knowledge and care.

So take time to understand your curl pattern, embrace it fully, and let those beautiful coils shine!