Human hair is pretty amazing, with all its different colors and textures, and the wide range of styles that you can apply to it. Each of us has our own natural hair and for sure, our tresses have their unique, gorgeous features. However, if you want to switch things up and see how you would look with a different type of hair, this is now very easy with the use of products like weaves or hair extensions.
Now, with the wide range of hair extension products available, deciding on which one to pick can be a challenge. Should you go for straight hair, wavy hair, or curly hair? Let's take a look at the characteristics of these different types so that you can have an idea of which one would be the best choice.
Characteristics of Straight Hair
Straight hair is the most common hair type among women all over the world. It is most predominantly seen in Asian women, such as those of Japanese or Korean descent. It is estimated that 60% of all women with straight hair are Asians.
Not all straight hair looks the same, though. In fact, there are a few subtypes of straight hair based on very diverse textures. The rarest hair type in the world is one that is extremely straight and fine. Styling this type of hair is very difficult. There are also those that have more texture and volume, which can be curled with some styling.
Characteristics of Wavy Hair
Wavy hair can be seen on people from all over the world, but most commonly among Caucasians. It ranges from somewhat straight near the top of the head, with waves appearing towards the ends, to very deep waves that cannot quite be classified as actual curls. You can straighten wavy hair temporarily by using an iron or blower, but it will eventually go back to its naturally wavy state.
Characteristics of Curly Hair
Curly hair also varies greatly. Some curly-haired women have loose curls while others have very tight curls. In some women, the curls are shaped like an S while in others, they have more of a zigzag pattern. Curly hair comes with a lot of volume and body, but also requires a lot more moisture. Without proper care, they can become dry and more prone to breakage.
How to Identify Your Hair Type?
Just by observing how your hair looks, you will already have an idea of what hair type you have. Obviously, if you have very straight hair or tightly coiled hair, you will immediately know your hair type. The confusion only lies in the boundaries between types. A lot of women with very slight waves in their hair might not be sure if their hair is classified as straight or wavy. Similarly, you might have a hard time deciding if the big spirals that your hair makes are waves or curls.
To accurately identify your hair type, you need to wash it first, then let it air dry. Do not put any products on it at all. As soon as it is completely dry, examine your hair in front of a mirror and check for distinguishing characteristics. If it falls straight down, your hair is straight. If you see some S curves, then your hair is wavy. If there are defined curls, then your hair type is curly.
How to Choose the Right Hair Types for You?
There is no absolutely right or wrong choice in this matter. Most of the decision has to do with how you want to look, or the hair styles that you want to wear. Also, if you are just going for length and volume, perhaps to add body to the hair you already have, you would have to pick hair extensions that match your own hair type.
On the other hand, if you are up for a complete change, you can pick any hair type you want. Do take note that if you have wavy hair and want to use straight extensions, you would have to do some ironing so that your hair blends perfectly. Of course, you can avoid this by simply getting a wig, which would completely conceal your natural hair anyway, so you are absolutely free to pick any hair type that you want.
