What Is 1C Hair Type?

1C hair is mostly straight but has a slight wave, especially at the ends. It is thick, coarse, and more prone to frizz than finer hair types. Unlike 1A (pin-straight) and 1B (straight with slight bends), 1C hair has natural body and texture but doesn’t form full waves.

Hair is made of a tough protein called keratin. A hair follicle anchors each hair into the skin. The hair bulb forms the base of the hair follicle. In the hair bulb, living cells divide and grow to build the hair shaft.

Your hair has natural movement—why not play it up? Try these methods:

• Use a lightweight mousse or texturizing spray to define waves.
• Scrunch damp hair with a sea salt spray and let it air dry.
• Try heatless styling like braiding overnight for more defined waves.
• If using heat tools, opt for a 1.25-inch curling iron for a natural finish.

Since 1C hair is thicker and coarser, it doesn’t get as oily as finer hair types. Washing 2-3 times a week is usually enough. If your scalp gets greasy quickly, dry shampoo can help extend wash days while keeping volume intact.

Pro tip: Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your waves from drying out!

Frizz is common with 1C hair since it’s coarser and more porous. To tame it:

• Use a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt to dry hair (no rough rubbing!).
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or smoothing serum to keep hair hydrated.
• Use a silk pillowcase to prevent friction and frizz while sleeping.
• If heat styling, always use a heat protectant to seal the hair cuticle.

Since 1C hair is thicker and coarser, it can expand with humidity and appear frizzy or puffy. Here’s how to control it:

• Use a lightweight oil or serum to smooth strands.
• Blow-dry with a round brush and downward airflow for sleekness.
• Try a keratin treatment or Brazilian Blowout every 3-4 months for long-term frizz control.

The right cut can enhance the natural volume of 1C hair without making it look bulky. Consider:

• Long layers – Reduces weight while keeping body.
• Face-framing layers – Adds movement and shape.
• Textured lob – A stylish, low-maintenance option.
• Soft curtain bangs – Complement your waves without overwhelming your face.

Avoid heavy, blunt cuts—they can make thick hair look too boxy!

Yes! 1C hair holds curls better than 1A and 1B, but you still need the right prep:

• Start with dirty hair (curls hold better in unwashed hair!).
• Use a medium-hold mousse before curling.
• Curl in opposite directions for a more natural, tousled look.
• Let curls cool completely before brushing to prevent them from falling.

With these steps, your waves will last all day!

Because 1C hair is naturally thicker, it can handle color well, but it’s prone to dryness. Try:

• Balayage or highlights for a sun-kissed effect.
• Rich brunettes or deep reds to enhance depth.
• Gloss treatments to keep hair looking shiny and healthy.

Toner touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will keep your color fresh and frizz-free!

To maintain the perfect balance of smoothness and volume, try:

• Lightweight mousse for definition without crunch.
• Smoothing cream or anti-frizz serum to fight puffiness.
• Texturizing spray or sea salt mist for an effortless, beachy look.

Avoid heavy butters and oils, as they can make hair look greasy instead of defined.

Absolutely! Since 1C hair is thicker, it blends well with extensions. The best options are:

• Weft extensions (move-up every 6-8 weeks) – Adds volume while keeping a natural feel.
• Tape-in extensions (move-up every 6-8 weeks) – Great for seamless blending.
• Keratin extensions (move-up every 2-3 months) – A long-lasting choice for thicker strands.

Clip-in extensions also work well for extra volume on special occasions!

Because your hair has natural texture and volume, you can create low-maintenance, effortless styles like:

• Beachy waves – Scrunch with mousse and air-dry.
• Sleek ponytail – Use a smoothing serum for a polished look.
• Loose braids or messy buns – Perfect for a chic, relaxed vibe.
• Blowout with soft waves – Classic, bouncy, and full of movement.