If you find yourself in the gray area between waves and curls, you might have Type 2C hair.
As the most textured among type 2 hair, 2C hair is known for its ultra-defined, “S”-shaped waves and distinctive body.
Like all hair types, 2C has its own unique characteristics and texture, which you'll need to understand in order to find what works best for your hair.
Read on to discover the ideal hair care routine for Type 2C hair, plus its defining traits and the best products to nourish, style, and enhance your natural waves.
Index
What is 2c Hair?
Type 2C hair is defined by loose, “S”-shaped spirals that begin at the roots and continue through to the ends. These waves are more pronounced than other type 2 subcategories, but not quite defined enough to be considered type 3 or 4 curls.
Key characteristics of 2C hair include:
- More prone to frizz than other wavy hair types
- Typically thicker and coarser in texture
- Natural “S” shape starts at the root
- Scalp tends to get oily between washes
- Struggles with both dryness and lack of volume
Type 2C hair needs personalized care, much like curly or coily hair. It often experiences oiliness at the scalp, heavy or limp strands, and curls that lose their shape.
Because 2C waves share many traits with curly hair, especially when it comes to frizz, they require extra care and the right products to stay healthy and defined.
2C Hair Care Routine
It’s important to know how to properly care for 2C hair with an effective routine and the right balance of lightweight, moisturizing products.
Here’s how to get perfect 2C waves every time:
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Washing: Use a sulfate-free, hydrating, frizz-fighting shampoo. Avoid washing daily, as it can strip your hair of its natural oils.
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Conditioning: Apply a leave-in conditioner to deeply hydrate and tame frizz. Opt for lightweight formulas to moisturize without weighing your hair down, while also helping to detangle and smooth strands.
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Styling: Avoid brushing your hair, especially when it’s dry, to avoid breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle hair while it’s wet, then scrunch upward to enhance your natural wave pattern. Scrunching helps create volume and definition for effortlessly tousled waves.
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Drying and Diffusing: Gently squeeze out excess water with a soft cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel to reduce frizz. Air-drying is ideal, but if you need to blow dry, always apply a heat protectant and use a diffuser to preserve your wave shape.
Nighttime Care: How to Wear 2C Hair to Bed
Sleeping with your hair unprotected can lead to frizz, tangles, and even breakage, making styling the next morning more difficult than it needs to be.
Make mornings easier with these simple nighttime tips:
- Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction, which helps prevent tangling and breakage.
- Use a silk or satin cap to protect your waves and minimize frizz while you sleep.
- Try loose braids or buns to keep your hair secure and reduce tangles and frizz overnight.
Best Hair Products for 2C Hair
In addition to a basic hair care routine, 2C hair benefits from products that deliver long-lasting smoothness and shine.
To prevent frizz, dryness, damage, and unwanted puffiness, start your routine with these essential products:
Goldie Locks® Signature Shampoo
Its protein-free formula protects hair strands, helps prevent damage, and enhances resilience. It gently removes impurities and buildup while delivering stunning shine and improved texture.
Goldie Locks® Signature Conditioner
Provides weightless hydration and frizz control, effortlessly detangling and smoothing hair for a sleek, polished finish.
Goldie Locks® Leave-In Conditioner
Its lightweight, detangling formula primes each strand for flawless styling while delivering nourishment, hydration, and protection against environmental damage.
Goldie Locks® Signature Hair Mask
Deeply conditions, tames frizz, and revitalizes dull, dry strands. It helps prevent future damage while instantly restoring brilliant shine and delivering weightless, visible results.
Goldie Locks® Smoothing Cream
This frizz-fighting formula delivers a controlled, frizz-free finish for all hair textures while protecting against environmental stressors.
Goldie Locks® Volumizing Texture Spray
Adds instant volume and body with a matte finish, enhancing thickness and delivering touchable, long-lasting results.
Goldie Locks® Blow Dry Spray
Provides heat protection, frizz control, and long-lasting style hold for up to two days, while also reducing blow-dry time.
Goldie Locks® Dry Shampoo Powder
Extends your style and helps maintain longer-lasting freshness between washes.
Goldie Locks® Flyaway Fix Pomade Stick
Tame flyaways and enhance texture with this pomade stick, providing style control and a soft, touchable finish without any greasy residue.
FAQs
Is 2C hair considered curly?
2C hair is the waviest within its category, characterized by loose, “S”-shaped spirals that begin at the root. While its waves are not as defined as type 3 or 4 hair, they are close enough to curly hair that some routines may overlap.
Should you cut 2C hair wet or dry?
Dry cutting is often the best choice if you wear your hair in its natural wavy texture. It allows for better control and accuracy.
Final Thoughts
2C hair falls between wavy and curly textures, giving it unique challenges. Understanding how to care for your 2C hair and how it differs from other hair types will help you choose the best styling techniques for your texture.
With Goldie Locks® gentle hair products, you’ll feel empowered to embrace your natural texture with confidence.
