Many women of color are reevaluating their connection with natural hair following the ongoing natural hair movement. Historically, curly hair has always been considered difficult to manage and “unprofessional”. As a result, they had to get relaxers and straighten their hair to fit the beauty standards.
In an interview, British singer Jamelia revealed that during the early days of her career, “it felt normal to conform to what I now know are Western beauty standards on stage, leading to straightening my hair and erasing any hint of my hair in its natural form.”
However, the rise of hair bloggers and influencers embracing different hair textures is changing these attitudes. People with curl patterns like type 3c hair are more comfortable styling it. This leads to progress in the hair care industry and creates new openings for businesses in this sector.
Type 3c hair has a unique curl pattern ranging from loose curls to tight, well-defined ones. But, caring for this hair type requires determination and a combination of proper hair care products.
This guide describes type 3c hair, offers various hair care tips to promote healthy growth, and includes products needed to care for it. As a business owner, this information can help you determine the products to offer to your target customer base.
Table of Contents
What is type 3c hair?
How to care for type 3c hair
Haircare routine that prioritizes moisture
Washing the hair frequently
Use deep conditioning products
Curl creams as part of the routine
Detangling the hair with care
Maintaining regular hair trims
Ensure night protection
Products needed to care for type 3c hair
Sulphate-free shampoos
Leave-in conditioners
Curl-defining creams
Hair masks and serums
Hair brushes for curly hair
Final takeaway
What is type 3c hair?
Type 3c hair has well-defined curls that start from the root. In an interview, Michelle Sultan, a celebrity hairdresser, says that type 3c hair has “a definitive curl that can range from loose curls to springy corkscrews.” The hair strands are usually tightly packed to create volume and texture, often resulting from a combination of coils and curls.
Like most curly hair, type 3c hair tends to appear shorter than its actual length. The curls can stretch somewhere between 3 to 6 inches. It has an S-shaped pattern that holds tight even when stretched out. It differs from type 4 hair because its curls are slightly larger and more defined.
How to care for type 3c hair
Type 3c hair is known for its tight curls, volume, and natural beauty. However, it requires extra care to keep it healthy and defined. Below are some tips on how to care for this hair type:
Hair Care routine that prioritizes moisture
Keeping type 3c hair hydrated is crucial to prevent frizz and breakage. People with this hair type should prioritize products that add moisture, such as hydrating shampoos, leave-in conditioners, and oils. Using a lightweight cream or oil can seal the hydration. Using hair masks at least once per week can also help attract and retain moisture.
Washing the hair frequently
Long periods without washing hair can lead to buildup and scalp issues. While overwashing type 3c hair can dry out the curls, a frequent wash can improve the health of hair strands and scalp. People with type 3c hair should avoid silicones and sulphates. Instead, they should use sulphate-free shampoos and avoid co-washing. For those with low porosity hair, weekly cleaning helps keep the curls bouncy, fresh, and defined.
Use deep conditioning products
Deep conditioning helps keep the curls soft and manageable. It is also one of the best ways of infusing moisture into the hair strands. The process should take about 15-30 minutes, incorporating a conditioning product and heat or steam.
Curl creams as part of the routine
Curl creams are a good way of improving hair shine, minimizing frizz, and improving curls. Users should opt for creams containing humectants that help reduce loss of moisture. These products ensure well-defined curls without drying the hair.
Detangling the hair with care
Type 3c hair, like any other curly hair, has a curl type that is prone to tangling. This makes detangling an important step of the hair care routine. Using a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush helps minimize damage. The process starts from the ends on the way up. Adding detangling spray or leave-in conditioner makes it easier.
Maintaining regular hair trims
Regular trims help maintain natural curls as well as overall hair health. Trimming prevents split ends and keeps the hair looking fresh and voluminous. Although the recommended period can vary, trims every 6 to 8 weeks are ideal.
Ensure night protection
A night hair care routine is as important as day styling. Wearing a satin or silk bonnet or scarf helps lock in the moisture and prevent friction that may lead to breakage. Simple protective hairstyles like large jumbo twists work too, and help avoid over-manipulation. Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase is recommended for people without bonnets or scarves.
Products needed to care for type 3c hair
Type 3c hair requires various products and tools to retain health, definition, and hydration. Since this curly hair type can be prone to dryness, combining the right products can help prevent frizz and breakage and maintain moisture.
Below is a list of products that businesses can sell to customers with type 3c hair:
Sulphate-free shampoos
A sulphate-free shampoo can help cleanse the hair without stripping off moisture and natural oils. Customers are more likely to invest in cleansers with gentle, moisturizing formulas that remove dirt and buildup while keeping the curls soft and hydrated.
Leave-in conditioners
Leave-in conditioners are a must-have for most people with type 3c hair. As a result, there is a significant business opportunity for brands in the hair care sector. For example, the global leave-in conditioner market generated about US$ 3.5 billion in 2024. This amount will reach US$ 5.2 billion by 2033, growing at an annual rate of 5.5%. Customers need this product to provide ongoing hydration throughout the day and maintain curl definition.
Curl-defining creams
Curly-defining creams are common hair styling products for people with 3c hair type. Customers are more likely to opt for creams with ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, and coconut oil. These products help maintain moisture and keep the curls bouncy and healthy.
Hair masks and serums
Deep treatment masks and nourishing serums are necessary for repairing damage, strengthening curls, and locking in moisture. Hair masks are popular among customers for their ability to provide an intense moisture boost. Serums, on the other hand, add shine and reduce frizz.
These products have a significant market value. For example, the global hair mask market value was US$ 720.5 million in 2024 and will reach $1,021.8 million by 2033. This marks a 3.76% annual growth rate. Hair serums generated about US$ 1.27 billion in 2024. This amount will reach US$ 2.21 billion by 2034, growing at an annual growth rate of 5.8%. These numbers reflect a significant market opportunity that businesses can leverage.
Hair brushes for curly hair
Customers with type 3c hair need hair brushes to detangle their hair. This hair care item helps separate the curls without disrupting the curl pattern. Modern-day customers understand the need for hair brushes designed for curly hair and their usage in avoiding excessive breakage. Thus, businesses selling these items are more likely to attract these customers.
Final takeaway
The natural hair movement creates a significant opportunity for businesses that sell products specifically targeting this market segment. Taking care of type 3c hair requires a combination of products and tools that contribute to healthy growth and hydration. This leads to a high demand for quality, curl-friendly items, such as sulphate-free shampoos, hydrating conditioners, hair brushes, and curl-defining creams.
Understanding the unique needs of these customers and providing appropriate solutions can help brands tap into a thriving market. This can help build long-term customer relationships, consequently leading to sustainable business.
