TABLE OF CONTENTS
• What Is 2A Hair?
• What Does 2A Hair Look Like?
• How to Take Care of 2A Hair
• How to style 2A Hair
• 2A Hair Products
• Common Hair Concerns for 2A Hair
Straight, wavy, curly, and coily are the four main hair patterns, and within them are subcategories that get into more detail about curl definition. Identifying one’s hair type is essential, as each hair type has its own set of needs.
What Is 2A Hair Type?
First, let's break down the 12 hair types briefly mentioned above. Each hair type is divided into four pattern families: straight (1), wavy (2), curly (3), and coily (4). Within these patterns are levels of strand definition (from least to most sculpted) as indicated by the letters A, B, and C (some professionals will go beyond C, but for this article, we are sticking to these hair types).
A person with 2A hair has the loosest waves out of all wavy hair types, so much so that it can appear straight at the roots with a slight wave or curl definition through the length. 2A hair differs from straight hair since the 2A hair type has subtle bends along the shaft and at the ends. These bends give this hair type its characteristic “S” shape.
The 2A hair type comes with plenty of benefits. Compared to straight hair, 2A wavy hair has more texture and volume and can better hold a curl. Therefore, it looks great in various hairstyles and cuts. Additionally, the 2A hair type doesn’t shrink much when wet. However, there are also specific concerns associated with 2A hair, such as frizz, lack of volume, and greasiness at the roots, which we’ll discuss later.
And, as you might have already guessed, type 2A wavy hair requires special maintenance. Not just any product will do to keep this hair type looking its best. We’ve got you covered there, too, with a 2A hair routine from Carol’s Daughter and type 2A hair tips.
What Does 2A Hair Look Like?
2A hair is characterized by loose waves that are straight at the roots but have slight bends along the hair shaft and ends, giving it an “S” shape. Think about the old Hollywood glam curls from the ‘50s, popularized by movie stars of the time, or, for a modern example, beachy waves.
How Is 2A Hair Different From Other Hair Types?
The 2A hair type has more definition than straight hair but has the least definition compared to all other wavy, curly, and coily hair types. It can deal with the greasiness and lack of volume associated with straight hair and the frizz associated with textured hair.If you’re unsure of your hair type, check out the Carol’s Daughter Curl Hub so you can visually compare the different hair types.
2A vs. 2B Hair
When comparing 2A vs. 2B hair, you’ll notice that 2B hair has more definition than 2A hair. 2A hair appears straighter but has subtle bends. 2B hair features very loose “S”-shaped waves.How to Take Care of 2A Hair
For the healthiest 2A hair, you’ll want to practice good curly hair care habits (listed below) and choose your products wisely.
1. Wash Hair Semi-Regularly
Since 2A hair is looser than type 3 curls and type 4 coils, it’ll need washing more frequently since its smoother shaft allows natural oils to travel down the hair faster. The precise number of times you’ll want to wash your hair depends on how much product you use, how quickly your hair gets dirty, and where you live.You’ll most likely want to wash strands a few times a week if you use a lot of hair products, live in a hot climate where you sweat often, or live a life where dirt and other impurities get in your hair easily. As with any hair type, reach for a shampoo that offers a gentle cleanse without stripping hair of its natural oils.
2. Use Styling Products
Not only will products like leave-in conditioners, hair pomades, and gels limit issues like frizz, tangles, and oiliness, but they’re also key for manageability when styling strands. Using styling products helps add moisture and nourishment to 2A hair for more defined waves. Since 2A hair is so loose, it can sometimes be mistaken for straight hair, but if you utilize styling products you can bring out the wave pattern for a more voluminous mane.3. Detangle Hair Before Brushing
This hair type can be brushed, combed, or even scrunched without much resistance. It can even be brushed while dry. Nevertheless, you’ll still want to use a detangling product (that may slightly dampen your strands) beforehand to limit hair breakage and rid strands of any knots.How to Style 2A Hair
The 2A hair type is versatile in the sense that it can be straightened or curled without much fuss. Check out the looks below for styling inspo.
Hairstyles for 2A Hair
Chic Layered BobLayers will give your waves gorgeous movement. Add a side part or bangs to make the look your own.
Curtain BangsCurtain bangs are stunning on 2A hair! Wear them parted down the middle or swept to the side to update any look.
Shag CutFeeling the retro vibe? You’re not alone! The shag cut has been going strong for years, and it suits 2A hair beautifully. Ask your stylist for face-framing layers to put all the attention on you.
Long LayersAssuming your 2A hair is not thin or fine, you should totally be able to pull off long layers, which can add movement and volume to your look.
Long Pixie CutYour natural waves will add more flavor and life to this cut, making it another excellent option for 2A hair. A long pixie will also put your face card front and center!
Best Products for 2A Hair
The best 2A hair products are lightweight: they won’t flatten your waves because they aren’t heavy enough to do so. They will, however, address common concerns associated with your hair type, such as flyaways, lack of definition, and greasiness. Luckily for you, Carol’s Daughter has a bunch of products that are perfect for 2A hair. Read all about them in this section.
Hair Milk Curl Cleansing Conditioner
Save precious time on wash day with our Hair Milk Curl Cleansing Conditioner that plays super well with 2A hair. It cleanses and conditions hair in one step, leaving strands feeling clean, soft, moisturized, and easier to detangle.
Hair Milk Curl Refresher Spray
Our Hair Milk Curl Refresher Spray was made to refresh textured hair, including waves. Lightweight enough for your 2A hair, it remoisturizes, redefines, adds shine, and prevents frizz, thanks to a combo of agave, wheat protein, and sweet almond oil.
Hair Milk Refresher Spray
FOR CURLS, COILS, KINKS & WAVES
Goddess Strength Hair Regrowth Treatment
Hair loss doesn’t have to hamper your hair goals. If you want to grow goddess hair, you’ll love our newest launch: Goddess Strength Hair Regrowth Treatment! It features 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution, the #1 dermatologist-endorsed active ingredient for hair loss, and is clinically proven to help regrow hair in just 4 months. Our Hair Regrowth Treatment is the latest addition to our Goddess Strength collection, designed to strengthen and moisturize hair.
Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp & Hair Oil
All the nourishment and moisture of a rich oil blend — minus the weight! That’s what our best-selling Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp & Hair Oil delivers. Made with castor oil, black cumin seed oil, and more, it’s amazingly lightweight, which means it won’t flatten your waves. Use it to moisturize your scalp and keep your hair strong, healthy-looking, and protected from breakage.
Goddess Strength Divine Strength Leave-In Milk
Every 2A hair routine needs a multitasking leave-in that’ll make your life easier and your waves, more exquisite. Our Goddess Strength Divine Strength Leave-In Milk, a leave-in conditioner spray that moisturizes hair and protects against heat up to 450F, is undeniably IT. It isn’t heavy and it instantly strengthens hair with split-end prevention.
Common Concerns for the 2A Hair Type
Those with the 2A hair type are more likely to be concerned about the following:
Lack of Volume
Using rich formulas or too many styling products can weigh down this hair type. Lightweight products are ideal for 2A hair. Aside from the Born to Repair Collection, you can also reach for
Frizz
Dryness is one of the biggest causes of frizz in 2A hair. This hair type can also get fuzzy because of heat styling and improper shampooing and drying methods. While you style your hair, we recommend trying out the Black Vanilla Moisture & Hold Jelly so you can lock-in moisture and set your style.
Greasiness
Similar to straight hair, 2A hair is flat at the roots, which makes it easy for sebum to travel down the hair shaft, giving hair an oily appearance.
Tangles
2A hair can tangle easily, especially if it’s fine. Friction, created when roughly handling hair with a towel or when your hair moves around while you’re sleeping, can also lead to tangles.
Best Products for Bleach-Damaged Hair
Hair Milk Refresher Spray
FOR CURLS, COILS, KINKS & WAVES
2A Hair FAQs
Can 2A Hair Be Thick?
Does 2A Hair Get Frizzy?
How Often Should You Wash 2A Hair?
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