Hair can come in all different textures and types. Every single one of these hair types deserves and needs their own type of care. Just like skin, some hair types can be more naturally prone to different things and require a specific type of routine. To create the perfect hair care routine for yourself, you have to first get to know the needs of your hair type. To help with that, here is a guide we’ve created to help you figure out what your hair needs.

Fine Hair

Fine hair is a type of hair texture that is actually different from your hair type. This is the overall thickness of your strand. To test if you have fine hair, take one strand of your hair and pinch it between your fingers. Run your fingers down the strand gently as to not pull out your hair. If you can barely or cannot feel the strand between your fingers at all, that means you have fine hair.

Straight

Fine straight hair is prone to oiliness, breakage, and flyaways. You can combat this by using a sulfate-free volumizing and deep cleansing shampoo, incorporating protein into your diet and hair routine, and using smoothing and moisturizing products at the ends of your hair.

Wavy

Fine wavy hair is prone to frizziness, oiliness at the roots, and some dryness at the ends. Protein-infused products and treatments will help with the frizz while a deep cleansing shampoo at the roots will take care of buildup and sebum. Prevent dry and split ends with moisturizing products and treatments at the ends. For a more detailed routine, check out our wavy hair method.

Curly

Fine curly hair is almost never oily or greasy. This type of hair absorbs moisture super fast and needs lots of it. Wash your hair only when necessary with a sulfate-free, gentle, and moisturizing shampoo, regularly treat your hair to a spa day by using hair masks, moisturizing treatments, and protein treatments to seal the moisture in.

Thick Hair

This is the second type of hair texture. You can use the same method as before to determine if you have thick hair. Only this time, if you can definitely feel the strand between your fingers, that means you have thick hair.

Straight

Thick straight hair is probably the easiest hair type to maintain. It’s not usually prone to frizziness or oiliness. However, thick straight hair may appear a little heavy and limp. Give it some life by using a volumizing shampoo at the roots and a smoothing and shine-enhancing serum at the strands and ends.

Wavy

Thicker strands can weigh down wavy hair and make the waves look less defined. You want to use some moisturizing and curl-defining products for your locks to make those waves pop. Make sure to use a gentle but deep cleansing shampoo at the roots to get rid of buildup and keep the hair voluminous.

Coarse Hair

This is the last type of hair texture. Again, you can use the same method to test your hair. Coarse hair will feel very thick and rough to the touch and those with coily or kinky hair will usually have this texture.

Curly

Coarse curly hair is extremely prone to dryness. Wash only when necessary with a sulfate-free, gentle shampoo or even a co-wash to keep the moisture intact. Regularly deep condition the hair and use leave-in conditioners, oils, serums, and curl creams to keep your curls defined and hydrated. Concentrate this on the strands and put a little on the roots for extra moisture. Coarse curly hair will rarely get oily but make sure to use a clarifying shampoo once in a while to cleanse the buildup and impurities from styling products.