How to Know My Hair Type

Understanding your hair type is the first step to unlocking your best hair day yet. Whether you're trying to control frizz, define curls, or boost volume, knowing your texture helps you select the right styling tools, treatments, and daily products. In this guide, we’ll help you answer the question: how to know my hair type—and once you do, we’ll walk you through the best products for every hair texture, from waves to coils.

Why Knowing Your Hair Type Matters

Your hair type determines how your strands react to heat, moisture, humidity, and even the kind of products that work for you. For example, a heavy cream might weigh down fine, straight strands, while a lightweight mousse won’t provide enough definition for tighter curls. By understanding your type, you can avoid product build-up, improve frizz control, and simplify your haircare routine. It’s not just about looks—it’s about healthy strands, moisture balance, and long-term hair confidence.

The 4 Hair Types Explained (1A to 4C)

Every hair type falls into one of four main categories—Type 1 (straight), Type 2 (wavy), Type 3 (curly), and Type 4 (coily). Each has subtypes (A, B, C) to describe the texture and curl pattern in more detail. Understanding these types helps you personalise your hair brushes and styling tools and product choices.

4 Hair Types Chart (with Recommended Products)

 

How to Test Your Hair Type at Home

You don’t need a salon visit to figure out your hair type. With a few at-home tests, you can discover your natural texture and choose the best haircare options without wasting time—or money—on trial and error.

Strand Texture Test

Start by taking a clean, dry strand and rolling it between your fingers.

• Fine hair feels barely there—opt for volumising and lightweight hair styling products.

• Medium hair feels more substantial and can usually handle a variety of styling options.

• Thick or coarse hair feels strong and resistant—look for rich moisturising treatments.

Curl Pattern Test

After washing your hair, let it air-dry with no product. Then observe the natural texture:

• Waves (2A–2C) will show loose, S-shaped bends.

• Curls (3A–3C) have well-defined spirals.

• Coils (4A–4C) will appear tighter and more textured.

Pair your curl type with specific tools like diffusers or curl creams available in our shampoos & conditioners collection.

Porosity Test (Water Test)

Drop a clean strand of hair into a glass of water:

• Sinks fast = high porosity → needs moisture-sealing products.

• Floats = low porosity → avoid heavy oils that sit on the hair shaft.

💡 Tip: If your hair feels dry or oily no matter your hair type, your scalp may be the issue. Explore our scalp care essentials for treatments that support every texture.

Best Hair Products in Ireland Based on Your Hair Type

Now that you’ve decoded your hair type, choosing the right products becomes easier—and way more effective. Whether you’re looking for curl definition, an air-dry finish, or frizz control, the right formula can help you achieve healthy, shiny, and bouncy hair. At Shaws.ie, we stock Ireland’s best haircare products tailored to every texture.

For Straight Hair (Type 1A–1C)

Straight hair often struggles with flatness and oiliness. To lift roots and add shine, try:

• Clarifying and volumising shampoos like Aveeno Volumising Shampoo

• Lightweight oils and anti-frizz sprays

• Mousse or texturising powder for hold without weight

• Look for styling products that won’t cause product build-up

For Wavy Hair (Type 2A–2C)

Wavy hair craves definition without heaviness. We recommend:

• Lightweight creams and gels

• Anti-frizz sprays

• Curl-enhancing formulas from our wavy hair collection

For Curly Hair (Type 3A–3C)

Curly hair tends to be drier and more prone to frizz. Go for:

• Moisture-rich conditioners and curl creams

• Leave-in treatments and diffusers

• Curly Co haircare – an Irish brand made specifically for curls, available right here at Shaws

For Coily Hair (Type 4A–4C)

Coily hair requires intense moisture and gentle detangling. We suggest:

• Deep conditioners and leave-in masks

• Oils and hair butters

• Products that support protective styling in our hair treatments collection

Common Misconceptions About Hair Types

Think you can only be one hair type? Think again. Many people have a mix of patterns (like 2C waves in the front, 3A curls at the crown). Hair type is also not the same as porosity—both matter. The key is to experiment with products and styling routines over time to see what truly works. Find tools like hair accessories that make styling easier across different textures.

Find the Right Products for Your Hair Type at Shaws

No matter your hair journey—whether you're embracing natural texture, starting a textured hair routine, or refining your wash day routine. Shaws offers expert-recommended haircare that’s curated for every type. From fine and straight to thick and coily, discover high-performing products that support moisture balance, styling confidence, and long-lasting shine.

Looking for your next work wardrobe? Shaws has you covered there too.

Hair Type FAQs

How can I know what my hair type is?
Let your clean, product-free hair dry naturally and observe the texture: straight, wavy, curly, or coily. For more accuracy, try strand and porosity tests too.

What is the easiest way to test your hair type at home?
Let your hair air-dry after washing. Then check for its natural shape. Use the water float test for porosity insights.

Why does hair type matter?
Knowing your type helps you choose the right products, reduce damage, and make styling easier and more effective.

What are the best products for curly hair in Ireland?
Moisture-rich curl creams, conditioners, and leave-ins—like those from Curly Co at Shaws

Can I have more than one hair type?
Absolutely. It’s normal to have a combination of textures across different parts of your scalp.