Type 2c Hair (Wavy): Tips on How to Take Care and Style

Knowing your curl pattern is the trick to a healthy curly hair journey. Once you identify your hair type, you can use the best practices to unlock your hair’s full potential.

Sometimes, wavy hair is mistaken for curly hair, which is often the case with type 2c hair. However, 2c is a unique hair type with some key characteristics that set it apart. And for that reason, this prominent wavy texture calls for extra care to keep it looking and feeling great.

Get to know your hair type as we discuss 2c hair and share our tips for healthy wavy tresses.

What Is the 2c Hair Type?

2c hair is the waviest of the wavy hair types. This wavy hair pattern features loose, S-shaped waves that form at the root and continue throughout the length to the ends. The natural waves are well-defined and may start to create ringlets when conditioned and styled correctly.

Type 2c hair texture is thicker and more voluminous than its 2a and 2b counterparts. It’s closer to curly hair types, but these waves don’t quite meet the criteria for natural curls.

Pros of type 2c hair

Type 2c hair is more recognizable than other wavy hair types. While 2a and 2b hair types fall somewhere between curly and straight hair, 2c hair has a stronger curl pattern.

Some of the main advantages of having this hair type are:

#1 Full of volume

2a and 2b hair types tend to struggle with volume as the waves form further down the hair shaft. But those with 2c hair have the advantage of waves that form at the roots, providing immediate lift at the crown. This is a massive bonus for anybody with this hair type, as it eliminates the need for volumizing products.

#2 Statement waves

2c hair is ultra-wavy, and the waves are so definite that they are sometimes mistaken for curls. While the type 2 hair category sits between straight and curly styles, there’s no question whether your hair has waves.

#3 Holds style well

2c holds its style well – it doesn’t tend to drop or fall flat toward the end of the day. Should you decide to opt for a curlier style, 2c hair is relatively easy to transform using the appropriate tools and heat protection spray.

Cons of type 2c hair

With a stronger wave pattern comes more responsibility. Several traits can make this hair type challenging to handle on a daily basis, despite how beautiful it looks. Overall, it requires more care.

Here are 3 drawbacks of 2c hair:

#1 Overly frizzy

Almost every person with 2c hair struggles with frizz control. Its thicker and coarser texture makes it more prone to frizz and flyaways. Nevertheless, there are plenty of products specifically designed to reduce frizz, which you can include as part of your daily haircare practice.

#2 Prone to dryness

Another problem with 2c hair is that it can dehydrate easily. The curlier your hair, the more prone it is to dryness as the scalp’s natural oils struggle to travel down the strands. It means the ends of the hair don’t always receive the moisture they need for proper hydration.

Implementing a routine that prioritizes moisture is crucial to keep your waves happy and healthy.

#3 Volume can get out of control

Volume is always an advantage because it gives your hair lots of body, but sometimes 2c hair can have too much volume. This is a nuisance, as it can make 2c hair difficult to manage, especially if you attempt to brush through the frizz and cause the hair to become even poofier.

How to Take Care of Type 2c Hair?

The number one thing you can do for your wavy hair is care for it well. A good hair routine comprises practices you should and shouldn’t do to keep your curl type looking its best.

Try the following tips to give your hair type the attention it needs.

#1 Don’t wash your hair daily

You need to wash your hair regularly to keep your scalp clean and free from dead skin cells, dirt, oils, and product buildup. Doing so helps limit the risk of problematic scalp and hair conditions, such as fungal infections.

You should only wash your wavy hair as needed. Like curly hair, wavy hair can maintain optimal health by washing just 2–3 times per week. This is because washing too often can strip the scalp of natural oils that nourish your hair, leading to even more dryness.

#2 Consider using frizz-controlling hair products

The haircare cosmetics you select can have a significant influence on your hair health.

As frizz is one of the most significant problems for this hair type, you can benefit from using anti-frizz products. Multiple options specifically target this hair-related issue, from shampoo and conditioner to treatment masks and curl creams.

#3 Deep condition once a week

2c needs moisture to remain in good health. Therefore, conditioning treatments are a major part of an effective hair schedule. You should use conditioner each time you wash your hair, and you can also follow up with a leave-in conditioner or weekly conditioning hair mask for added support.

#4 Air dry your hair

Allowing your hair to air dry removes the risk of heat damage from a blow dryer. As heat damage is one of many culprits behind frizzy hair, it can help to cut it out of your routine where possible.

You can use a microfiber towel or a soft T-shirt to remove the excess moisture from your wet hair, as these materials are gentle on your delicate strands. It is also one of the best hair-drying methods to prevent frizz and secure your waves in place.

Use a wide-tooth comb on damp hair to minimize damage when your hair is at its most vulnerable. 

#5 Don’t use hot tools excessively

Too much heat for 2c hair is a recipe for disaster. Stay away from blow dryers, flat irons, and curling tongs as much as possible to keep your hair free from harm. Heat styling tools contribute to many problems those with 2c hair already face, including breakage, dryness, and frizz.

#6 Get your hair cut

Curlier hair is more vulnerable than straight hair types. As the ends become dry and brittle, they are more likely to snap off. If left untreated, split ends can travel up the hair shaft and cause further damage. So, removing these ends swiftly is better to minimize the destruction.

Getting your hair trimmed will not make it grow, but it can indirectly support hair growth by keeping your strands healthy. In addition, a fresh cut makes your hair look and feel thicker.

Aim to book regular visits with your hair stylist for the best results.

What Hairstyles Are Perfect for Type 2c Hair?

A haircut is essential to help your waves form correctly and fall into shape. Book a consultation appointment with your hairstylist if you need help styling your hair. They can help determine the best cut and style for your hair type, as well as your face shape.

To give you some ideas, here are 3 hairstyles that tend to work well for 2c hair.

#1 Layered cut

Adding layers is a great way to give your waves more freedom of movement. They can bounce around without being held back by the weight of hair that is all one length. It can also add dimension, especially for colored hair with light and dark tones.

#2 Short bob

Going shorter is perfect for those with a natural wave because it offers movement and additional volume. A short bob is simple and stylish yet can encourage wave definition. Moreover, the bob cut is practical, which will make styling your hair an effortless task.

#3 Shag cut

The shag cut is a style that sees the hair layered at various lengths, producing a “shaggy” look. Again, the waves are free to fall as they wish, creating that easy, tousled appearance with minimal styling products or time spent in the mirror.

Best Products and Ingredients for 2c Type Hair

You can only build an effective haircare routine for your 2c hair with the right hair products. Choosing those with natural and nourishing ingredients will help trap moisture, tame frizz, and prevent your strands from becoming dry and damaged.

Ingredients

Check the label when shopping for hair products. You can look out for the following ingredients for your specific hair texture:

• Argan oil
• Coconut oil
• Coconut water
• Jojoba oil

Shampoos and other products

Prioritizing your shampoo routine will get your 2c hair off to the best start on wash days. Those dealing with dry hair can benefit from using Moérie products. The formula contains coconut and macadamia oils to ensure your 2c waves are smooth, silky, and shiny.

You could also try the following:

• Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner
• Marc Anthony Coconut Beach Waves Texture Cream
• Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream
• Living Proof No Frizz Leave-In Conditioner
• Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector

FAQs

Conclusion

Type 2c hair has a unique wave pattern that you might mistake for curls. It’s full of body and texture all on its own, but the proper regimen will let your natural waves shine. Implementing the correct styling process will make your hair more manageable and free from excessive frizz.

A handful of techniques will combat frizz, lock in moisture, and deliver that natural curl pattern many of us only dream about.