1
Straight
Type 1 covers straight hair. Its subtypes are distinguished notably by diameter, ranging from very fine or thin hair to a coarser texture.
GLAMOUR HAIR GUIDE
Know your hair, choose with confidence
Understanding hair type and texture helps you observe how hair behaves, its natural pattern and the result you want to achieve. Cutting, styling and coloring techniques can vary according to hair type and the desired result. This Glamour guide introduces the 1A to 4C classification and helps you recognize the main texture patterns.
Hair type and subtype
In this classification, the number identifies the main hair type: 1 for straight, 2 for wavy, 3 for curly and 4 for coily hair. The letter A, B or C then identifies the subtype. It is also possible for one person to have more than one hair type or texture in different areas of the head.
2
Wavy
Type 2 features waves. The S pattern becomes progressively more visible and defined from 2A to 2B and 2C; 2C can also show a loose Z pattern.
3
Curly
Type 3 covers curly hair. Curls range from loose and voluminous to tight, springy and highly defined.
4
Coily
Type 4 features tight patterns. Depending on the subtype, the pattern can appear as an O or Z with different levels of definition and tightness.
The 12 subtypes, from 1A to 4C
Use these descriptions as observation points. They help compare the overall shape and texture of the hair.
| TYPE | CATEGORY | DETAILED DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| 1A | Straight — Fine | Very straight hair with a fine or thin texture. |
| 1B | Straight — Medium | Straight hair with slight bends or a thin texture. |
| 1C | Straight — Coarse | Straight hair with a coarser texture. |
| 2A | Wavy — Loose wave | Fine, wavy texture with a loose S shape. |
| 2B | Wavy — Defined wave | A slightly more defined wave that maintains an S shape. |
| 2C | Wavy — Strong wave | A well-defined S shape or a looser Z pattern. |
| 3A | Curly — Loose curl | Loose curls with visible volume. |
| 3B | Curly — Tight curl | Tight and springy curls. |
| 3C | Curly — Very tight curl | Very tight, springy curls with a defined S or Z shape. |
| 4A | Coily — Defined coil | A looser coily texture with a defined O shape. |
| 4B | Coily — Zigzag | Tight coily texture with a defined Z shape. |
| 4C | Coily — Tight | Tight coily texture with a defined O shape. |
How do you identify your type?
Start by identifying the number corresponding to the general type, from 1 to 4. Then determine the letter A, B or C. For type 1 hair, observation is based mainly on diameter. For types 2, 3 and 4, focus instead on the texture pattern and its level of definition or tightness.
S
The S shape appears notably in wavy and some curly categories. Observe whether the S is loose or strongly defined.
O
The O shape is a reference point for certain type 4 textures. Observe the overall shape and how tight it is.
Z
The Z shape can appear loose or highly defined. It helps distinguish certain 2C, 3C and 4B textures.
Important: this system is a guide. Your entire head of hair does not have to fit perfectly into one category. Multiple textures can coexist.
Choosing a Glamour texture
The classification gives you useful vocabulary for comparing textures. When shopping for a Glamour wig or bundles, you can then choose according to the look you want: a straight finish, soft waves, defined curls or a tighter texture. A commercial wig or bundle texture name, however, does not necessarily correspond exactly to a 1A–4C category.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have more than one hair texture?
Yes. More than one hair type or texture can appear on the same head. Observe different areas rather than relying on a single strand.
What do the numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 mean?
They represent the four main families: straight, wavy, curly and coily.
What do A, B and C mean?
The letters identify the subtype within each main family.
How is type 1 assessed differently from types 2 to 4?
For type 1, focus mainly on diameter. For types 2 through 4, focus mainly on the texture pattern.