Curly Hair (Type 3): Care & Styling

Curly hair (3a–3c) forms real spirals and ringlets, from chalk-width loops at 3a to tight pencil-width corkscrews at 3c. Curls are naturally drier because oil can't travel down a coiled strand easily — so curly hair lives and dies by moisture and definition.

Wash day

• Wash 2–3 times a week (tighter 3b–3c often just once) with a sulfate-free shampoo. Focus the shampoo on your scalp, not the lengths.
• Condition generously, then detangle with a wide-tooth comb or fingers from the ends up to the roots while conditioner is in.
• Apply your products to soaking wet hair — water is your first styling product and helps curls clump.

Styling & drying

• Layer a leave-in conditioner, then a curl cream or gel. Smooth on with the praying-hands method, then scrunch upward.
• Dry by 'plopping' in a microfiber towel or T-shirt, then air-dry or diffuse on low. Don't touch curls mid-dry.
• Never brush dry curls — it shatters the clumps into frizz.
• Refresh days: mist with water, scrunch in a little leave-in or gel, and you're set — no need to rewash.

Pro tip

Two habits change everything for curls: apply every product to soaking wet hair, and use 'refresh days' between washes so curls stay defined all week without drying them out. Less washing, more moisture.

At Taper Shop

Curls suit a curly taper or a burst fade that keeps shape on top, cut with scissors to protect the curl pattern. Want to add or relax curl long-term? Ask about our permanent curly/wavy and treatment services.