Understanding the basic styling guidelines for each type of hair texture can help you create gorgeous styles without relying heavily on products and tools. The importance of hair texture is having a moment with the natural hair movement and more and more women choosing to embrace the hair they were born with. The following are the top tips for understanding the importance of hair texture.
Identifying the Natural Texture
In the styling world, there are not a standard number of hair types recognized. A stylist may categorize hair as being fine, medium, or coarse. Other stylists may include straight, wavy, curly, and frizzy when identifying hair types. Clients can also have a combination of hair textures such as fine and straight hair. An easy method for identifying hair texture is to look at how the hair falls after you lift it up. Hair that falls flat back to the head is considered fine while hair that remains sticking away from the scalp is coarse. Medium hair will fall in between the two types.
Fine Hair Basics
Fine hair is considered the most fragile of all hair types. Fine hair will only be made up of two layers and is often resistant to staying in place when styled. Too much product can’t be added because it weighs down fine hair. Also, fine hair is prone to oil buildup. Fine hair can break easily and will typically not hold up well during chemical treatments. Since fine hair can get weighed down, shorter hairstyles are preferred. When hair is worn too long, the hair looks flat and lifeless. Shoulder-length cuts and shorter will give a woman with fine hair much needed volume.
Medium Hair 101
The majority of individuals have what is called “medium” hair. Medium hair isn’t fine nor is it thick or coarse. In addition to the two layers that fine hair obtains, medium hair will have another layer. This extra layer allows for styles to hold in place easier and offers improved resistance to hair breakage. When you have medium hair, you can usually add natural waves to it by scrunching up wet hair as it dries. Adding layers or bangs are also fine for medium hair.
Coarse Hair Care
Coarse hair is heavier than all other types and is made up of three layers: cortex, cuticle, and medulla. Coarse hair does well when length is added because it helps weigh the hair down. Layers will stop the hair from having a blocky appearance. Also, coarse hair can withstand chemical and heat treatments without breaking.
Learn about hair texture and more when you attend one of the cosmetology programs offered through Long Island Beauty School.
