What Is 2A Hair Type?
2A Hair
Type 2 hair is described as having a wavy texture that falls between curly and straight hair types. Type 2 can have loose loops or thicker, coarser-shaped S waves that have a slightly tighter wave texture and curl. As type 2 hair grows farther from the roots, it has a tendency to become wavier. There are three different types of type 2 hair: 2a, 2c, and 2b. Type 2a has minimal waves, type 2b has softer waves, and type 2c has defined waves, to put it simply.
The fluffy and limp style and texture that 2a hair can naturally be prone to should be avoided at all costs. The best length for type 2a hair is slightly shorter to give your natural waves more volume and texture. A shorter hairstyle will also give the appearance of having thicker, more full-bodied locks. We also offer hair extensions for your hair type.
Checklist If You Have 2A Type Hair
- Texture of fine to medium strands
- Loose, flexible wave form
- Root oiliness or limpness
- Heavy products flatten waves.
- Possibly frizzy if moisture requirements aren’t met
- Possibly requiring products to improve waves
Most Common Issues With 2A Hair Types
- Not Straight Enough, Not Wavy Enough – Type 2a hair starts to lie flat at the roots and starts to form waves at eye-level. This gradual shift in texture can make hair look inconsistent. These strands lack the distinct wave texture of 2b hair type as well as the slight curl pattern of 2c hair types in terms of shape.
- Damaged and Weighed Down Easily – In comparison to other wavy or curly hair types, type 2a hair is typically less dense. The reason why the hair is unable to curl into precise waves is due to its fine texture. It’s also what causes it to get easily damaged or weighed down by products. When you try too hard to shape your natural hair with sticky styling products, blow-dryer diffusers, or curling irons, you may experience product buildup. Too much brushing your wavy hair to make it look straight can also lead to breakage and split ends.
- Prone to Oiliness – In comparison to other wavy hair types, type 2A hair is more prone to oiliness. Your scalp may not actually generate more oil than others’, but the shape of your strands definitely contributes to making your hair look oily faster than others might experience. Your hair is mostly straight with a small amount of bend because of the very slight wave in 2A hair. This straight/wavy shape makes it easy for your scalp’s natural oils to travel down strands. That’s great for moisturizing your mane, but not so great for maintaining its cleanliness.
- Flat Roots Can Prevent Volume – Flatness at the roots is one of the characteristics of 2a hair, as we have already mentioned. The waves of a type 2a are less clearly defined as a result of this. It’s also why 2a hair has the least amount of volume among other wavy hair or curl types. The lack of volume at the crown of the hair can further amplify the inconsistent look of type 2a hair. To look its best, your hair needs a boost of volume which can match the amount of body the rest of your hair has.
Type 2A Hair Compared To Others
Keratin is a hard protein that makes up hair. Each hair is anchored to the skin by a hair follicle. The base of the hair follicle is made up of the hair bulb. Living cells divide and grow to form the hair shaft in the hair bulb.
- Type 1 hair (straight hair): 1a hair, 1b hair, 1c hair
- Type 2 hair (wavy hair): 2a hair, 2b hair, 2c hair
- Type 3 hair (curly hair): 3a hair, 3b hair, 3c hair
- Type 4 hair (coily or kinky hair): 4a hair, 4b hair, 4c hair
Related: Different types of hair extensions
Recommended Haircare Regimen For Type 2A Hair
Being a low-maintenance hair type, 2A hair can be fairly easily cared for and maintained. But there are still some important points to consider if you want your 2A waves to look and feel their best.
Stick to air-drying
Not everyone has the good fortune to let their hair dry naturally. You are though. And we recommend doing that as much as possible. Heat won’t do anything but add frizz. Let your hair dry naturally after a shower and you’ll love perfectly tousled tresses. How to wash your hair extensions?
Know How To use A Curling Iron
Even though your hair type typically dries in a ready-to-go manner, this doesn’t always happen. Some days you want a bit extra definition in your waves. When those days arise, grab your curling iron. Be sure to apply a heat protectant to your tresses beforehand and then go to town adding an additional touch of curl to your wave.
Don't Use Too Much Product
Your hair is usually quite fine and thin. As a result, you should refrain from putting lots of products in your hair. Your strands will only become weighed down and appear rather lifeless as a result. Make sure the products you do use are lightweight.
Use Anti-Frizz Products
You should use shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products that will lessen frizz. Using the right products can help you avoid having frizzier hair than you’d like.
A Shorter Hairstyle
Your hair becomes heavier as it grows longer. When that occurs, you are unable to fully display your lovely soft waves. You’ll be fine as long as you keep your hair at or just below the shoulder.