I am sure that you have heard of the natural hair typing system created by celebrity hairstylist Andre Walker, who is also Oprah’s hairstylist. The hair typing system consists of a chart that is used as a guide to help identify what category your hair type falls into, so that you are able to determine which products are best for your hair and how to care for your hair. I have nothing against the hair typing chart, and I think it is a great idea, but it’s just not my cup of tea.
When I first went natural I found myself trying to fit into a certain hair category within the hair chart. My hair just didn’t fit into any category on the chart and I felt frustrated. Recently, I decided against placing my hair into any category in the hair typing chart. When people ask what is my hair type, I simply say my hair type is H for healthy. My hair has always been different textures all over my head. Some sections are tightly curled and others are loosely curled. Honestly, when I first went natural my hair was somewhat thick and had very loose curls. After I had my baby, my hair changed and it is very thick and kinky.
I have tried products that are supposed to be for those with Type 2 hair and they worked well for me. I think it just depends on what products work best for your hair. I am a firm believer of trial and error for finding products that work for you. Consider partnering up with a curlfriend and swap products.
Instead of using the hair typing system to find products that work for my hair, I use my hair porosity and hair density to determine how to care for my hair. Porosity is your hair’s ability to absorb moisture and it is broken down into three categories: low, normal, and high. I tend to fall in the low porosity category. I feel that porosity is important because when you know your hair’s porosity, you can determine how much moisture your hair needs to thrive. Knowing your hair’s porosity can also help find products that may work well with your hair.
I also believe that knowing your hair density helps with finding products and better understanding your hair. I have high density hair that is very thick, so I have to use products that will help penetrate my hair. I believe that knowing your hair porosity and density helps a great deal, rather than the hair typing chart, but do what works for you.
Do you use the hair typing system? Why or why not?
