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Home arrow Beauty arrow Hair arrow Type 1b Hair (Straight): Tips on How to Take Care of and Style It

Type 1b Hair (Straight): Tips on How to Take Care of and Style It

HR_author_photo_Rosmy
Written by Rosmy Barrios, MD
HR_author_photo_Edna
Fact checked by Edna Skopljak, MD
Last update: May 6, 2023
9 min read 684 Views 0 Comments
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Knowing how to care for your straight hair effectively can be a challenge. However, identifying which hair type you have can help you on your journey to long and strong locks. Discover whether you have type 1b hair and the best ways to care for it.

1b hair type

Whether you have big, bouncy curls or silky straight lengths, navigating the world of haircare can be a difficult and intimidating task.

Despite this challenge, with a few simple tips, techniques, and the right products for your naturally straight hair, you can help reduce the number of bad hair days. The first step in this journey is to determine if you have type 1, 2, 3, or 4 hair. 

If you have mostly straight locks with a hint of volume, it’s likely that you’ve been blessed with type 1b hair. Read on to learn more about this hair type, its pros and cons, and how to style it.

What Is Type 1b Hair?

Type 1b hair is mostly straight with a slight wave and a bend at the end of each strand. Lengths are mostly fine, with some slightly thicker weave in between, giving this hair type a boost of volume.

This volume means that type 1b is able to hold curls and wavy hair created with heat styling tools well. 

Like other straight and fine hair types, those with type 1b hair also tend to suffer from greasy roots due to a buildup of sebum, a natural oil produced by glands in the scalp

However, some of these oils are prevented from reaching the ends by the hair’s gentle waves. Although this can sometimes cause dry lengths, it also helps type 1b curls look smooth and shiny without looking greasy.

There are three main type 1 categories that hair can fall into, with 1b sitting firmly between a and c in terms of hair’s natural texture and curl pattern. 

However, not everyone falls into a specific category. For example, those with type 1b hair are likely to have a mixture of all strands, from pin-straight to very wavy, and some in between.

Pros of Type 1b Hair 

Type 1b hair has several advantages that make it one of the best hair types to style. Here are 4 benefits of this unique hair type.

#1 Has some volume 

Unlike type 1a hair, 1b strands have slight volume due to their slight thickness and beach waves. While this hair type remains finer than curly or coarse manes, it doesn’t fall completely flat on the face.

#2 Easy to style

Because of the voluminous nature of type 1b hair, you won’t struggle to find a style that lasts all day. Whether you want a sleek, straight style or a fun updo, this hair type is versatile and requires little maintenance.

#3 Little frizz

With straight hair types like this, the natural oils produced at the scalp can easily slide down the strands from the roots. This helps to give your hair a silky smooth appearance with minimal frizz.

#4 Can hold a curl

Type 1b locks are slightly wavy, making it easier than most to curl with heat tools. 

Because of the natural volume, an even greater benefit is that these curls can last all day or night, making styling almost effortless for type 1b hair.

Cons of Type 1b Hair 

Despite the benefits of type 1b hair, no curl pattern is perfect. Although this type is usually fine and fragile, a regular haircare routine will ensure that you’re less likely to have a bad hair day.

#1 Fragile strands

Type 1b hair has more volume than type 1a hair, but most of the strands are still just as thin. This makes it more fragile than thicker hair types and requires a little extra care to prevent tangling or breakage.

#2 Might look oily

Although the structure of similar hair types helps the natural oils of the scalp to moisturize the lengths, it can also work to your disadvantage and make type 1b hair appear too greasy at times.

#3 Prone to dry ends

While those with type 1b hair may appreciate the movement and volume in their strands, this can prevent some of the natural oils from the scalp from reaching the ends of your lengths. 

This lack of moisture can lead to dry ends, which can be frustrating when paired with oily roots.

#4 Prone to product buildup

In addition to the natural oils on your scalp, overuse of products that are heavy, non-water-soluble, or contain silicones can cause buildup at the roots. 

This weighs down your already fragile strands, taking away what little volume they have and putting them at a higher risk of breakage.

How to Take Care of Type 1b Hair 

Type 1b curls are fairly low maintenance in terms of styling and will hold any style you choose on a daily basis. However, in order to maintain its natural volume, there are a few practices you should incorporate into your daily routine.

Here are some simple tips to help you on your haircare journey:

#1 Don’t go to bed with wet hair 

When you’re tired after a long, hard day, all you want to do after a hair wash is fall into bed. However, leaving hair to air dry can cause it to become frizzy and tangled in the morning, which puts it at a greater risk of breakage.

Therefore, try to ensure that your hair is mostly dry before hitting the hay. The best way to dry your hair is with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt, as air drying can cause your locks to weaken over time.

#2 Avoid heat styling

Although it may be tempting to enhance your hair’s natural body with a curling wand, try to limit your use of heat, as this can modify the structure of your strands and cause damage to the surface layer. 

Try to only put heat on your hair for special occasions, and instead, make the most of your natural medium texture by scrunching damp locks between your fingers. Use a texturizing spray for some extra hold, and you’ll have waves in no time.

#3 Don’t apply conditioner to your scalp

With type 1b hair, you’re at risk for dry ends, which means you’ll need to use a conditioner to tame the frizz. However, avoid applying this product to your scalp after shampooing, as it can contribute to the natural oil and product buildup that causes greasy, limp strands.

#4 Use oil control products

As we know, one drawback of type 1b hair is that it can appear greasy if not cared for properly. Therefore, you should choose shampoos and conditioners that are specifically designed to control oily roots.

However, be sure to only apply products to the lengths of your hair and avoid the scalp. This can cause product buildup at the hair root, which weighs your fine locks down and adds to the limp, lifeless look of type 1 hair.

#5 Clarify your hair

Even if you use oil control products and avoid applying them directly to the roots, you are likely to get a buildup from oil, chlorine, and hard water minerals with type 1b hair.

Using a clarifying shampoo will help remove excess sebum and dirt, although frequent use can cause dry, frizzy, and brittle hair. To prevent shedding and breakage, add a clarifying shampoo to your weekly regimen.

#6 Try a hair rinse

If you’re still struggling with product buildup after using a clarifying shampoo, then a weekly hair rinse may come to your rescue. 

Choose a rinse that contains natural ingredients such as apple cider vinegar, which not only creates optimal scalp conditions for hair growth but also helps prevent dandruff and remove buildup at the roots.

#7 Wash your hair regularly

Since type 1b hair is prone to product buildup, regular shampooing is crucial to keep your roots from looking greasy. This can make your hair look lifeless from root to tip. 

However, washing too frequently can have the opposite effect by stripping your scalp of its natural oils and increasing sebum production.

For best results, resist the temptation to wash daily and stick to 2–3 times per week. On the days in between, use a volumizing dry shampoo.

This will help control your scalp’s sebum production and maintain the perfect balance between dry and oily lengths.

Which Hairstyles Are Perfect for Type 1b Hair? 

Although type 1b hair is naturally straight, it has a good amount of thickness and volume. From loose curls to straight locks, this means there are a variety of different styles for those with this hair type to try.

However, remember that type 1b hair is susceptible to damage and can break easily, so try to limit the use of heat styling tools as much as possible.

#1 Pixie cut

Choosing a shorter style helps to lighten the hair, preventing it from being weighed down. This will make it look much thicker and will add to the voluminous natural look of your hair.

#2 Curtain bangs

In addition to framing the face, curtain bangs are also great for type 1b hair as they help to lift limp curls. Curtain bangs are also easy to maintain, growing into longer layers that give shape to the rest of your straight hair.

#3 Layered cut

Adding layers will enhance your hair’s natural waves while adding volume. However, keep the layers long, as adding lots of short layers can add too much texture and make your hair look messy. 

#4 Side part

While middle parts exaggerate the flat, limp nature of type 1b hair, combing a side part into the roots helps add extra volume to your lengths.

The deeper you make your part, the more voluminous it will be, so play around with positioning until you find a style that works for you.

#5 Half-up half-down

Not only does a half-up, half-down style look like you’ve spent hours styling your locks, but it also helps give your hair some dimension. It’s also pretty easy to pull off when you’re pressed for time.

Best Products and Ingredients for Type 1b Hair 

To maintain your hair’s volume while preventing oily roots, it’s important to choose the right products for your type 1b hair. Using ingredients that are beneficial to your hair is crucial to maintaining strong, nourished, and healthy curls.

Ingredients 

When choosing products for type 1b hair, look for natural ingredients that moisturize your lengths without adding oil to your already oily roots. 

The ideal ingredients will also purify and help remove excess oil, leaving your hair looking nourished and voluminous.

Here are a few recommendations:

  • Rosemary oil
  • Aloe vera
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Glycerin

Shampoos and other products 

If you’re looking for the ideal shampoo for type 1b hair, look no further than the Moérie Mineral Shampoo. Made with natural ingredients, this shampoo helps hydrate your hair without causing buildup on the scalp. 

Some other products that are ideal for the 1b hair type include:

  • Ouai Detox Shampoo
  • Leonor Greyl Heat Protection and Volumizing Spray
  • dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
  • Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-in Spray
  • Batiste Dry Shampoo
  • Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray

FAQs

How do I know if I have type 1b hair?

If you have type 1b hair, it should be able to hold a curl fairly well. It is mostly straight, with a hint of volume and a slight bend at the end of each strand.

What is the difference between type 1b and type 1c?

While type 1c is thicker with more defined waves, type 1b hair has only a slight wave. Type 1c hair also tends to be more frizzy and doesn’t have as oily roots.

How rare is type 1b hair?

Unlike type 1a hair, which is rare except among people of Asian descent, most straight-haired women around the world fall into the 1b category.

A Word From an MD

Type 1b hair is mainly characterized by straight lengths, with a slight bend at the end of each strand. However, not all people in this category will look exactly the same, as your hair’s individual characteristics tend to differ based on genetic factors.

Despite the slight volume, this hair type has a tendency to become oily at the roots yet dry at the ends. Another key concern is product buildup, which you should address with a clarifying shampoo once per week to maintain good scalp health.

Control these issues by washing 2–3 times per week, getting regular haircuts, and using products that are suitable for your hair type.

However, there are a number of pros to this hair type, including having minimal frizz. It can also hold a curl well, although you should minimize the amount of heat you use to reduce the risk of damage and ensure that your hair grows at a good rate.

Conclusion

Those with type 1b hair benefit from silky straight yet voluminous hair with strands that hold a curl well. 

Resist the temptation to use a heat styling tool too often and instead scrunch damp hair between your fingers before spritzing a texturizing spray through the lengths.

Wash your hair only 2–3 times per week, using a dry shampoo to cleanse and volumize on the days in between. Try to implement a good routine to maintain healthy locks, and follow our styling tips to enhance your natural volume.

Written by Rosmy Barrios, MD
Dr. Rosmy Barrios, MD, is a medical advisor for the Health Reporter, the head of the anti-aging department, and a regenerative medicine specialist in several medical institutions with years of experience in aesthetic medicine and cosmetology.
The article was fact checked by Edna Skopljak, MD
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HR_author_photo_Rosmy
Written by Rosmy Barrios, MD
HR_author_photo_Edna
Fact checked by Edna Skopljak, MD
Last update: May 6, 2023
9 min read 684 Views 0 Comments
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