Type 2 · 2A–2C
Wavy
S-curves, movement, and salt-air vibes.
Type 2 hair forms an S-shaped wave pattern that starts at the root (or close to it). It sits between straight and curly. Light enough to be weighed down by heavy products, but textured enough to hold a wave with the right approach. The wave tends to get looser at the crown and more defined at the ends.
In the real world
Type 2 · Wavy in all its forms
Breaking it down
The 2A–2C spectrum
2A. Loose S-wave
A gentle, faint S-bend with the most straight-like behavior of the wavy types. Hair can appear straight when dry or in high humidity. Easiest to straighten; tends to flatten closest to the root.
2B. Defined Wave
More clearly defined S-waves with a bit more volume and texture. Starts to show frizz more noticeably and requires deliberate technique to enhance the pattern without adding crunch.
2C. Deep, Thick Wave
The waviest of the wavy types. Approaches loose curls in some sections. Dense, full, and very prone to frizz. Products need to be strong enough to define the wave but not so heavy they kill the movement.
What makes it tick
Characteristics
Natural S-pattern
The wave often starts near the root and becomes more defined toward the ends.
Humidity-sensitive
Moisture in the air can loosen the shape or bring on frizz.
Balanced moisture
Many wavy patterns take in and release moisture at a moderate pace.
Easy to weigh down
Heavy formulas can flatten the wave or leave it feeling coated instead of soft.
What it loves
Key needs
Mousse & light cream
Applied to soaking-wet hair, these enhance the S-pattern without crunch or buildup.
Diffusing
A diffuser attachment on a low-heat dryer lifts the wave from the root without disrupting the pattern.
Sulfate-free cleansing
Sulfate-free shampoos clean without stripping. Crucial for maintaining the wave's moisture balance.
No brushing dry
Never brush wavy hair when dry. It breaks the S-pattern into frizz immediately.
Step by step
Starter wash day routine
Wet thoroughly
Soak hair completely. Products work best on dripping-wet strands.
Condition with slip
Use a silicone-free conditioner and scrunch it upward into the hair to encourage the wave.
'Squish to condish'
In the shower, scrunch upward while rinsing to activate and define the wave pattern before stepping out.
Apply products wet
Apply mousse or a lightweight curl cream to soaking-wet hair immediately out of the shower. Scrunch upward.
Diffuse or air dry
Diffuse on low heat in a pulsing motion, or air dry untouched. Once dry, scrunch out any crunch.
Ingredient list
Look for these
Definition
Flaxseed gel and Marshmallow root extract
Light moisture
Aloe vera and Glycerin (moderate)
Soft finish
Argan oil and Sea kelp
Pro tips
From the field
Squish to condition
Scrunch upward while rinsing conditioner to begin shaping the wave before any styling product goes on.
Style soaking wet
Water helps light products spread evenly and reduces a crunchy, coated finish.
Plop gently
For 2B and 2C, a microfiber towel or T-shirt can absorb extra water while keeping the wave shape together.
Take the next step
Use this guide your way
Build a routine
Turn these texture notes into simple wash-day and styling steps.
Browse product ideas
Use your type as a starting point, then narrow options by your current needs.
Check ingredients
Look at a product label before trying it, especially when your hair or scalp is sensitive.
Know more than your type
Your hair type is just the start.
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