Wavy Hair vs. Curly Hair: Tips for Telling Your Type and Styling Accordingly
Identifying your hair type (wavy hair vs curly hair) is one of the first and most crucial steps in understanding what your hair truly needs. When you know your hair type, you can build a hair care routine that addresses its specific needs—whether it’s moisturizing, defining curls, or controlling frizz. Wavy vs. curly hair types share many similarities, so it’s easy to see why they might be mistaken for each other. While both can have beautiful, voluminous textures, their patterns and care requirements are quite different. Here, we break down the distinctions between wavy and curly hair to help you figure out what type you have and how to best care for it.
Knowing whether you have wavy or curly hair is important because the care requirements for each hair type differ significantly. Wavy hair, for example, tends to need less moisture than curly hair, but curly hair requires more hydration to prevent dryness and maintain its bounce. Whether it’s managing coarseness or choosing the right curly hair products, understanding your hair type is the first step in building a personalized routine that works for you. The right products, techniques, and styles can truly make all the difference.
Keep reading to learn all you need to know about wavy hair vs. curly hair.
Wavy Hair vs. Curly Hair
Below, we explain what wavy hair is, what curly hair is, whether or not wavy hair is considered curly, and the main differences between the two patterns.
What Is Wavy Hair?
Wavy hair falls somewhere between straight and curly, with a natural S-shaped wave pattern that’s not very coily. It’s often described as having soft waves or loose curls, creating volume and texture without the tightness of curly hair. Wavy hair can vary in thickness, meaning you can have thin wavy hair—although the waves might be less defined than thicker strands.
The density of wavy hair also plays a role: fine wavy hair can sometimes appear flat, but it still holds waves, whereas denser hair will have more defined texture and volume. The key to wavy hair is that the waves aren’t as structured as curls, making them versatile for both relaxed, beachy looks and more polished styles.
What Is Curly Hair?
Curly hair, on the other hand, is known for its more defined curl pattern that can range from loose curls to tightly coiled spirals. Curly hair tends to be prone to dryness and frizz, as the natural oils from the scalp have a harder time traveling down the twists and turns of the hair. Like wavy hair, curly hair comes in various textures, from loose curls (type 2b) to tightly coiled curls (type 4). The texture is more voluminous, and you might find that curly hair needs more moisture and care to maintain its health and shape. When styling curly hair, it’s important to embrace its curl pattern and use products that nourish, define, and hydrate your hair strands.
Is Wavy Hair Considered Curly?
Not exactly. Technically, wavy hair is a subset of curly hair, but it isn’t quite as curly as the traditional definition of curly hair. Wavy hair has an “S” pattern, whereas curly hair has a more defined curl pattern with spirals or coils. The main difference lies in the intensity and definition of the waves or curls. While wavy hair can be considered a form of curly hair, it doesn’t have the same coiled or spiral structure that defines curly hair.
What Is The Difference Between Curly And Wavy Hair
Texture
Curly hair typically has a more defined curl pattern, ranging from loose to tightly coiled curls. Wavy hair, on the other hand, has a looser shape that creates volume and texture without the tight spirals. Curly hair often requires more maintenance to keep the curls defined, while wavy hair is easier to style with minimal effort.
Moisture and Hydration
Curly hair vs. wavy hair tends to be more prone to dryness and frizz because the natural oils from the scalp have a harder time penetrating the hair. In contrast, wavy hair is typically less dry, but it still needs moisture to prevent frizz and enhance texture. Hydrating products like hair masks and deep conditioning treatments are crucial for curly hair, while wavy hair may only need light styling creams or oils. (Wondering how to use a hair mask? It’s much easier than you think.)
Density
Curly hair is usually denser and more voluminous than wavy hair, which can sometimes appear flatter or less full, especially if it’s fine. The denser the hair, the more product it may require to define and control the curl pattern, while wavy hair might not need as much product to create definition.
What Are The Different Types Of Wavy Hair?
Wavy hair is generally classified into three main types:
Type 2a
Type 2a hair is fine and thin with loose, relaxed waves. It tends to be smooth and easy to manage but can lack volume without the right products. You’ll often see soft waves without much frizz in this type.
Type 2b
Type 2b hair has more defined waves with a bit of frizz. The texture can range from slightly wavy to a more pronounced “S” shape. It tends to hold waves better than type 2a hair and requires slightly more styling to maintain that hair texture.
Type 2c
Type 2c hair has thicker waves with a bit more body and volume. This type may have some loose curls mixed with waves, and it can be prone to frizz. Using a wide tooth comb is helpful to prevent tangles and maintain the wave pattern.
What Are The Different Types Of Curly Hair?
Curly hair is usually divided into four types, with the last type having four subtypes:
Type 3a
Type 3a curls are loose, bouncy curls that form large, defined spirals. This type has more volume than wavy hair but is still lightweight. Type 3a curls tend to have a soft texture and need moisturizing products to prevent frizz.
Type 3b
Type 3b curls are tighter and more defined than type 3a. These curls tend to be thicker and have even more bounce. This curl type can be prone to dryness, so it’s important to use nourishing curly hair products.
Type 3c
Type 3c curls are tightly coiled with lots of volume. The curls are dense and have a lot of texture, which requires a deep conditioning routine to keep them hydrated and defined.
Type 4a
Type 4a hair is very tightly coiled and dense. It’s often prone to dryness, so it requires plenty of moisture and hydration. Type 4a hair comes in looser coils.
Type 4b
Type 4b hair has even tighter coils than type 4b hair. These are super tight curls that offer tons of volume and bounce.
How To Style Curly And Wavy Hair
Au Naturel
The easiest hairstyle for curly and wavy hair types is to leave it in its natural state. Essentially, this means washing your hair, adding a bit of hydrating cream or hair serum, and letting it air dry. When it’s about 90 percent dry, you can add a bit of hair oil to keep the flyaways at bay.
Half-Up, Half-Down
People with curly or wavy hair know that sometimes the front strands get oily. When that’s the case, an up-do is a go-to. But to avoid having a bland ponytail, you can opt for a half-up, half-down ponytail. This’ll give your look a bit more dimension and volume.
Messy Bun
Because curls and waves have so much natural bounce, these hair types are perfect for a messy bun. Simply sweep your hair up as high as you can, letting some strands frame your face, and use a hair tie to secure it. It’s a great ‘do for casual outings.
How To Take Care Of Wavy And Curly Hair
Moisturize Regularly
Curly and wavy hair is prone to dryness and frizz, so keeping it moisturized is key. Use a leave-in conditioner or a hydrating curl cream to lock in moisture. We recommend Pattern Leave-In Conditioner for the first and Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Cream for the second.
Avoid Heat Damage
Excessive heat can damage your curl pattern and leave your hair looking flat. Opt for heat protectants before styling and try air-drying or using diffusers to enhance your natural waves and curls.
Use a Wide-Tooth Comb
When detangling, always use a wide-tooth comb to prevent breakage and preserve your natural curl or wave pattern. Be gentle when detangling, starting from the tips and working your way up to the roots. If you need a little extra help brushing through your curls, consider using Rizos Curls Refresh & Detangle Spray.
