Types, Cuts, and Care
Curly hair is beautiful, versatile, and—let’s be honest—sometimes complicated. The right cut, the right products, and the right stylist can completely change how your curls look and feel day to day. At primp. in Charlotte, curly hair is one of our specialties. Here’s your complete guide to understanding, cutting, and caring for your curls.
Understanding Curly Hair Types
Knowing your curl type is the first step to styling it well. Here’s a breakdown of the hair types chart most stylists and curl experts use:
Type 2 – Wavy Hair
- 2A hair – loose, tousled, beachy waves
- 2B hair – more defined “S” shaped waves
- 2C hair – thicker, stronger waves that border on curls
Type 3 – Curly Hair
- 3A hair – loose, shiny, loopy curls about the width of a piece of sidewalk chalk
- 3B hair – springy ringlets with more volume
- 3C hair – tight corkscrew curls
Type 4 – Coily Hair
- 4A – soft, tightly coiled “S” patterns
- 4B – sharp “Z” shaped coils
- 4C – densely packed, tightly coiled hair with the most shrinkage
Most people have a mix of curl types across their head—and that’s normal.
Hair Types for Men
Hair types men have follow the same chart. Whether you’re a 2B wavy guy or a 4A coily guy, your styling routine and haircut need to match your natural pattern.
The Best Curly Hair Cut
A curly hair cut should never be done the same way as a straight hair cut. At primp., our curly-trained stylists cut curls dry (or at least semi-dry) so we can see exactly how your curls fall and shape them accordingly.
Popular curly haircut styles include:
- Short curly hair – tapered or curly pixie for effortless styling
- Curly bob or lob – shape and definition without extra weight
- Long curly hair – layered cuts to prevent the dreaded “triangle” shape
- Curly fringe – face-framing dimension
Curly Hair Products That Actually Work
The curly hair products aisle can be overwhelming. Here’s what your stylist will actually recommend — and what we carry at primp.
Shampoo for Curly Hair
We recommend the Kérastase Curl Manifesto Bain Hydratation Douceur for looser curl patterns, or the Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste if frizz control is your top priority. Both are sulfate-free and preserve the natural oils your curls need to stay hydrated and defined.
Conditioner for Curly Hair
The Kérastase Curl Manifesto Fondant Hydratation Essentielle delivers deep moisture and slip for easier detangling — perfect for tight curls and coils. For curlies who battle frizz in humidity, the Kérastase Discipline Fondant Fluidealiste smooths and softens while keeping curls intact. Leave either in for 3–5 minutes, detangle with fingers or a wide-tooth comb, then rinse with cool water.
Styling Products
Build your curl routine with these Kérastase essentials:
- Leave-in conditioner — Kérastase Curl Manifesto Lait Fondamental is the first step in every curl routine, sealing in moisture before you style
- Curl cream — Kérastase Curl Manifesto Crème de Jour Fondamentale adds definition and softness for bouncy, touchable curls
- Frizz-smoothing styling — Kérastase Discipline Oléo-Curl defines and smooths simultaneously, ideal for curls that need extra frizz control in humidity
- Gel — Kérastase Curl Manifesto Gelée Curl Contour locks in definition and fights frizz without leaving curls crunchy
Curly Hair Highlights
Yes, you can absolutely add dimension to your curls. Curly hair highlights require strategic placement since curls bend the light differently than straight hair. Our stylists paint highlights that follow the natural spiral of your curl pattern for the most flattering effect.
Book Your Curly Hair Appointment at primp.
Whether you’re a 2A wavy, a 3C ringlet, or a 4C coily queen, primp. in Charlotte has curly-trained stylists ready to give your hair the cut and care it deserves. Book your curly hair appointment today.