If you have type 3B curls, you definitely know that taking care of this hair type can be a little tricky. Curly hair comes in various patterns and textures from loose spirals to tight corkscrews and type 3B curls are somewhere in between.
This blog breaks down everything you should know about type 3B curly hair, from what it is and how to take care of it to the best haircare routine you can embrace for your ultimate look.
Table of Contents
What is type 3B curly hair?
How to take care of your type 3B curly hair
Your ultimate 3B curly hair routine
Final takeaway
What is type 3B curly hair?
Type 3B curls are dense, spiral-shaped curls that range from bouncy ringlets to tight corkscrew curls. A professional hair texture expert, Geoffrey Britt, defines 3B hair as “a tighter, more defined spiral ringlet curl.” The expert further says this hair type has “big, bouncy, full-of-life energy, giving us curl-sistency from roots to ends.”
Type 3B curly hair often has a lot of natural volume, which can be both a blessing and a challenge! 3B curls are more prone to frizz and dryness because the natural oils from the scalp have a harder time traveling down the spiral structure. Understanding the quirks of your 3B curls will help you tailor your care routine to meet their unique needs.
How to take care of your type 3B curly hair
Type 3B curls have unique characteristics that set them apart from other curly hair types. For example, 3B curls are often drier, tightly packed, and densely packed. Understanding these unique features helps you determine how to best care for your 3B curls and their specific needs.
Avoid heavy products
Heavy creams and oils may weigh down 3B curls, making them look limp or greasy. Look for lightweight, hydrating products like leave-in conditioners and styling creams that won’t coat your curls with buildup. Choose water-based products with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin, which add moisture without compromising curl definition.
Reduce frizz with hair styling cream
Frizz can be a constant battle for 3B curls, but styling creams can help. Apply a curl-defining cream when your hair is still damp, and focus on the mid-lengths and ends. This will help control frizz and give your curls a smoother, more polished appearance. Try products that contain nourishing oils like argan or jojoba, which help to seal in moisture without making your hair feel heavy.
Know your hair’s porosity
Understanding your hair’s porosity helps you know how well your curls absorb and retain moisture. High-porosity hair tends to soak up moisture quickly but loses it just as fast, while low-porosity hair repels water, making it harder for products to penetrate. High-porosity 3B curls may benefit from thicker, creamier products, while low-porosity curls might do well with lighter, water-based products.
Avoid brushing your curls
Brushing 3B curls can disrupt their natural pattern and lead to frizz. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, preferably while it’s wet and coated with conditioner. Doing this will help maintain your curl shape and prevent breakage, leaving your hair looking more defined and healthy.
Apply gel to keep your curls bouncy and defined
A lightweight gel can provide definition and hold without the crunch. To keep your curls bouncy and lively, scrunch a small amount of gel through damp hair and let it air dry. You can also use a diffuser to get similar results. The gel will create a soft cast around your curls, helping them keep their shape throughout the day.
Use hair mask regularly to keep your hair moisturized
3B curls are prone to dryness, so weekly or bi-weekly deep conditioning is a must. Opt for a moisturizing mask with ingredients like shea butter, honey, or avocado oil to replenish moisture and prevent breakage. After applying the mask, let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes to allow your curls to soak up all the nourishing benefits.
Avoid excessive heat
Excessive heat can damage 3B curls. The heat makes them prone to dryness, frizz, and breakage. Minimize the use of hot tools like straighteners and curling irons, and when you do use them, apply a heat protectant to shield your curls.
Opt for air drying whenever possible, or use a diffuser in a low heat setting if you prefer to blow-dry your hair.
Keep your curls protected while you sleep
Sleeping with 3B curls can sometimes lead to tangling and breakage. Protect your curls overnight using a satin or silk pillowcase, which reduces friction, or by covering your hair with a satin scarf. You can also gather your hair in a loose pineapple on top of your head to keep your curls intact and minimize frizz.
Your ultimate 3B curly hair routine
Since type 3B curls are more likely to be dry and frizz, it is important to have a hair care routine. This routine helps keep your curl patterns defined and your hair healthy and moisturized.
Here is a hair care routine you can follow:
#1. Cleanse: Use a sulfate-free shampoo or co-wash once a week to cleanse your curls without stripping them of moisture.
#2. Condition: Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner, making sure to detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb while the conditioner is still in your hair.
#3. Apply leave-in and styling products: While your hair is damp, apply a leave-in conditioner followed by a styling cream or gel to lock in moisture and enhance curl definition.
#4. Dry: Use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently scrunch out excess water. Then, air-dry your curls or use a diffuser to avoid frizz and preserve volume.
#5. Weekly deep conditioning: Incorporate a deep conditioning mask once a week to maintain hydration and elasticity.
Final takeaway
Taking care of 3B curly hair can be rewarding once you understand what your curls need. You can keep your curls defined and healthy by choosing lightweight, moisturizing products and avoiding harsh brushing. Remember to pay attention to your hair’s unique characteristics, like porosity, and build a routine that nourishes and enhances your natural curls. With a little patience and care, your 3B curls can be as vibrant and beautiful as ever!
