The trichologist and Bellissima ambassador, Jacqui McIntosh, offers expert advice on how to identify hair type to unlock more vibrant and defined curls.
Jacqui is a Bellissima hair ambassador, specialising in hair texture management and is a certified trichologist. She said becoming a hairdresser taught her the best tools for her clients after her own journey of trial and error.
“Initially discovering tools for my hair type was quite hard as few companies create tools with my hair type in mind,” she said. “At this time, my hair often felt dry and fragile.”
Her experience is reflective of a recent study conducted by Bellissima which revealed one in four people feel self-conscious about having curly hair and over half have fallen out of love with their curls because maintenance takes too much time.
• It takes on average 22 minutes a day to style curly hair – that’s five and a half days of styling time a year.
• Nearly one in five respondents said they chemically straighten their curls, while 38% admitted they feel pressure to smooth their curls.
• Shockingly over half of participants in the salon-quality styling tool’s survey confessed they were unaware of their hair type.
“Just like skincare is tailored to specific skin types, curl care should be customised to suit your unique texture – whether you’re working with loose waves or tight coils,” Jacqui said.
“Once you know your curl type, you can pick products and hair care methods that won’t weigh down your waves or leave your spirals parched.
“Figuring out your curl type may seem like an unnecessary task but it is the key to unlocking healthy hair and getting the best out of your curls.
“Using products that don’t work for your curl type can actually cause issues leading to a damaged curl pattern, breakage, frizz and loss of curl due to chemical damage.”
When it comes to curl types, one size doesn’t fit all. In fact, there are three different types, all with three subcategories, making the classification system seem a bit overwhelming at first glance.
Wavy hair is considered Type 2; curly hair is Type 3, and Type 4 is coily.
Jacqui said the change in her hair after understanding its type was “remarkable.” She went on to say, “I’ve noticed less shedding and breakage, and my curls are more defined and vibrant. Using the right tools has also helped my scalp health improve.”
The trichologist recommended determining your curl type when hair is in its natural state.
“After washing, let your hair air-dry without brushing or styling it to see its true curl pattern,” she said. “What shape are your curls taking on? Are they loose S-shaped waves, defined ringlets or tight corkscrew curls? Are they finer or heavier, thicker curls?
“By understanding your curl type, you can choose the right products and techniques that will work with your hair’s natural texture, helping you maintain healthy, defined curls and avoid common issues like frizz and breakage.”
The tips are essential for nurturing locks at home as three quarters of respondents in Belissima’s study said they felt misrepresented by hair stylists who were unfamiliar with curly hair.
Less than half of respondents admitted they are not aware of hair salons who have hairdressers qualified in cutting or styling curly hair in their area
Jacqui said she noticed a major improvement in the appearance of her hair after buying a tool that worked best for her type. “Within a couple of weeks, my hair was easier to manage, and by a few months, the condition was undeniable,” she said.
“Patience is key, but the right tools make every stage of the journey so much more rewarding.”
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