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Type 2 hair is defined by waves of various shapes and sizes. The waviest of all is 2c hair, which appears in the form of S-shaped curls that are often the envy of your friends and family.
Like all curly and wavy hair types, you must know how to care for your 2c hair to prevent it from drying out and becoming damaged.
As 2c hair is susceptible to frizz, you also need to choose the right styling products to ensure your waves flow naturally.
So, read on as we introduce you to type 2c hair and run through our guide to styling and caring for this wonderfully wavy hair type.
What is 2c hair?
Different from 1c straight hair and 3c curly hair, 2c curly hair is classified as “wavy” hair, with many people having S-shaped waves. That said, some people can have corkscrew waves or waves with slight curls.
Here are some characteristics of the 2c hair type that will help you to identify your wave pattern:
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Your hair takes the form of an S shape that begins at its roots.
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You may have spirals at the end of the S shape.
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Your hair might frizz at the ends after drying, particularly if you don’t use an ionic hair dryer.
Wavy hair can be short, medium, or long in length, while the pattern of your waves may change slightly depending on factors like the environment, the products you use, and how often you wash it.
2a vs 2b vs 2c hair: What’s different?
If you have wavy hair, it might be one of three types: type 2a, type 2b, or type 2c.
Check out the table below to determine whether you have 2c hair or if you might have one of the other type 2 hair types:
| Hair type | Main characteristics |
| Type 2a | The loosest wave pattern that resembles straight hair but with a slight bend that prevents it from sitting smoothly. |
| Type 2b | Similar to 2a hair but with a more defined bend. This allows versatility, as you can style your hair straight or curly. |
| Type 2c | The most defined waves among type 2 hair, often in S shapes with curls or coils at the end. |
How to style 2c hair?
There are numerous ways to style 2c hair. The best approach is to highlight your natural wave pattern and do whatever you can to prevent frizz. Frizz is often caused by heat-based styling, so opting for an alternative is important.
When styling your hair, you can use an ionic hair dryer like the Laifen Swift Special. The ionic technology eliminates frizz and helps to thoroughly dry your hair without overdrying it. You can then apply various styling products to showcase your waves in any way you choose.
How to take care of 2c hair?
Establishing a 2c hair routine is essential if you want to maximize your styling options and maintain healthy and nutritious hair.
One of the biggest issues facing people with 2c hair is that these waves and curls can look excessively oily.
Often, your waves can appear oily, which makes them fall flat and lose their natural shape.
As such, any 2c wavy hair routine should deal with oil build-up before anything else.
If you use lots of 2c hair products, you might find that you need to wash your hair more frequently to deal with the excess oil, perhaps every 3-4 days.
Best products for 2c hair
As for general maintenance, you might consider using the following 2c hair products to look after your waves:
Shampoo
Selecting an appropriate shampoo is important for people with 2c hair. You can buy products that are specifically marketed for wavy hair, as they will help with definition and style.
As for ingredients, look to avoid shampoos with sulfate, as they can lead to frizz and may even cause your waves to dry out in the long run. You can find natural 2c shampoos with ingredients like tea tree oil and jojoba oil for the best results.
Conditioner
Regularly conditioning your hair helps to moisturize and hydrate your waves and is an essential step in any hair care routine.
Again, there are many 2c conditioners available, each with nourishing properties.
In between shampoo washes, you can co-wash your hair from time to time, which is a great way to replenish your hair’s natural nutrients.
Curl cream
Using a curl cream is a great way to define your waves.
It helps define and enhance curls, and it can also serve as a leave-in conditioner, hydrating and nourishing your hair.
You can apply it after washing your hair, and it’s a brilliant way to enhance those natural waves.
Hair dryer
Investing in an ionic hair dryer like the Laifen Swift is a exceptional way to blow dry your wavy hair.
The ionic technology prevents your hair from frizzing, while the adjustable heat setting means you can blow dry your hair on the low or medium setting to prevent it from drying out.
Though you need to caution against over drying your hair, switching to an ionic dryer is the best way to heat-style your waves without causing damage.
Popular hairstyles for 2c hair type
2C hair is full of movement. With defined waves and natural volume, it carries a personality of its own. These styles are designed to enhance your wave pattern while keeping your look modern and cool.
Layered waves
This style lets your waves do what they do best: move freely.
Strategic layers remove heaviness and encourage definition and gives your hair shape without stiffness.
The result feels relaxed yet styled, great for those who want their hair to look intentionally undone while still full of life.
Modern shag
A shag haircut brings out the rebellious charm of 2C hair.
With airy layers and soft edges, this style adds texture and personality without overwhelming your natural wave pattern.
It’s an expressive look that feels playful and easy to wear every day.
Wavy lob
The lob is a go-to choice for 2C hair because it balances volume and control.
Falling just above the shoulders, it keeps waves bouncy and defined while staying lightweight.
This hairstyle feels fresh and goes for those who want movement without sacrificing manageability.
Curtain bangs
Curtain bangs work beautifully with 2C hair, melting into the rest of the waves instead of fighting them.
They frame the face softly and add depth without demanding constant styling.
Side-parted waves
A deep side part instantly transforms 2C hair by adding height and dimension.
United with layers, it creates balance and brings focus to your natural texture.
Medium-length cut
This cut gives your waves space to breathe.
By keeping the length balanced and the layers light, it enhances natural volume without excess bulk.
The result is a lively, expressive hairstyle that feels authentic and true to the beauty of 2C hair.
The last words
People with 2c hair have beautiful waves that can be styled in numerous ways. Provided that you care for your waves and use the right products, you shouldn’t experience any issues with oil build-up or frizz.
So, buy the right shampoo and conditioner and invest in an ionic hair dryer to care for your 2c hair to perfection, and showcase your style with this stunning natural hair type.
FAQs
What makes 2C hair different from other wavy hair types?
2C hair has deeper, more defined S-shaped waves that often border on curls. It’s more textured than 2A or 2B hair.
Why does my 2C hair look wavy one day and curly the next?
2C hair is highly responsive to moisture and styling techniques. Small changes in products or drying methods can shift waves into loose curls or softer textures.
Is frizz unavoidable with 2C hair?
Not at all. Frizz usually signals dryness or lack of definition. Using moisture-rich products and gentle drying methods helps seal the cuticle and keep waves smooth and controlled.
Should I brush 2C hair when it’s dry or wet?
Brushing dry 2C hair can disrupt wave patterns and cause frizz. Detangling while wet or damp, using a wide-tooth comb or fingers, helps maintain definition and reduce breakage.
Can 2C hair handle heat styling?
Yes, but moderation matters. Heat can smooth or reshape waves, but frequent use without protection can weaken the hair.
What haircut best enhances 2C waves?
Layered cuts, shags, lobs, and styles with texture work best. These cuts reduce bulk and allow waves to form naturally.
