A Black woman’s hair is her crown, and it’s important she does whatever is necessary to feel beautiful donning it. While we enter the world with many different kinds of curls and textures, it’s important to note that each requires a unique care routine to keep it healthy and vibrant, from 2A to 4C.

While Black women tend to vacillate between the curly and coily categories, there are plenty of us with strand and wavy strands. For any queens rocking loose waves who are completely unsure of how to properly nurture their mane, here’s a comprehensive guide on having 2A hair.

How to Determine Your Hair Type

Before diving into the mechanics of 2A hair, it’s essential to understand how to determine your hair type. Hair types are generally classified into four categories: straight (type 1), wavy (type 2), curly (type 3), and coily (type 4). Each category is further divided into subtypes (A, B, and C) based on the diameter and pattern of the curls or waves. If you’re unsure of where you fall, here are some easy steps to follow:

Step 1: Starting with clean hair, wash with a gentle shampoo and let it air dry without using any styling products.

Step 2: Look at your hair once it’s completely dry. Note the pattern—whether it’s straight, wavy, curly, or coily.

Step 3: Feel the texture of your hair. Is it fine, medium, or coarse?

Step 4: For wavy hair, see if the waves form an S-shape pattern. For 2A hair specifically, the waves are loose and subtle.

What is 2A Hair?

(Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

2A hair is characterized by its loose, gentle waves that form an S-shape pattern. It’s the least wavy type among the wavy hair spectrum and is often mistaken for straight hair due to its subtle wave pattern, though it has some standout key features as a midpoint between straight and curly hair:

  • Texture: Fine and relatively thin compared to other hair types.
  • Volume: Usually lacks significant volume and can appear flat at the roots.
  • Frizz: Prone to frizz, especially in humid conditions.
  • Versatility: Can be easily styled straight or wavy with minimal effort.

Tips for How to Care for 2A Hair

Caring for your 2A mane means maintaining its natural wave pattern while minimizing frizz (especially in humid climates!) and maximizing volume. By incorporating these tips into your hair care routine, you can keep your 2A hair looking vibrant and healthy:

Use Lightweight Products: Opt for lightweight shampoos and conditioners that won’t weigh your hair down. This means looking for products specifically labeled as volumizing or designed for fine hair.

Avoid Heavy Styling Products: Heavy gels and creams can make 2A hair look greasy and flatten the waves. Instead, use light mousses or sea salt sprays to enhance your natural waves without adding extra weight.

Embrace Air Drying: Whenever possible, let your hair air dry to preserve its natural texture. If you need to use a blow-dryer, use a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting to minimize frizz.

Consistent Trims: Regular trims are essential to prevent split ends and maintain the health of your hair. You should aim to do a trim every 6–8 weeks.

Protect Against Heat Damage: If you use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage. Limit the use of flat irons and curling wands to avoid excessive heat exposure that can damage your wave pattern.

Silk Pillows: Not only is it a beauty hack that’s great for your skin, but sleeping on a silk pillowcase can also reduce friction and prevent frizz. It’s a simple switch that can make a significant difference in maintaining your hair’s smoothness.

Hydration is Key: Keep your hair hydrated by using leave-in conditioners or light hair oils. Focus on the ends of your hair to keep them moisturized without weighing down the roots.