Our Curly Q&A section is full of questions about curl patterns and curl definition. Everyone wants to know about do you have to have one, do you need to know about it, can you create one, switch it up, or damage it. Well, finally, all of your questions have been answered.
Read more: This is Actually More Important than Curl Pattern
Is there such thing as not having curl definition?
There is such thing as not having curl definition. No matter how many styling creams, gels, and mousses you try, your curls may never clump. Styling products can only capture the curl you already have not create one. It’s important to note that having curl definition is not always an indication of healthy hair. The only time lack of curl definition is a sign of damaged hair is if your hair has experienced heat damage, which is irreparable. If your hair was once full of ringlets and now it’s full of frizz after using heat styling tools, then you have likely experienced heat damage. The only way to remove heat damage is to cut it. Whether you remove all of it at once or transition is your choice.
As long as you are caring for your hair with regularly cleansing, conditioning, moisturizing, and trimming when necessary, then your hair will be in premium shape. If tangles are your primary concern, try wearing stretched styles like twists or braids.
Read more: 7 Gorgeous Styles to Stretch Your Hair
Can you have multiple curl patterns?
Most people with textured hair have multiple curl patterns. There is usually an unnoticeable variation between the crown and nape areas, whether the curls are tighter, looser, more defined, or less defined. This may cause some to worry but there is no need to. If there is a glaring contrast, especially when wearing a wash and go, then getting a DevaCut or any dry cut is always a great option if you want to even it out. Remember that because the hair is being cut in its dry, curly state, it is likely to not be even when straightened, so this technique is best for those who wear wash and go’s regularly.
Can hair be naturally frizzy?
There are three variables that affect frizz: genetics, weather, and damage. Oftentimes, your hair may be naturally frizzy, especially Type 4 textures. Other times it may be a combination of your natural texture and the weather elements. Rain, high humidity, and high dew points can all affect how your hair responds to the moisture in the hair. Products that claim to fight humidity are limited, as your hair will naturally expand to absorb moisture that is present in the air, especially if you use hair products that contain humectants like honey, glycerin, lanolin, and panthenol.
Read more: How to Tame Frizzy Hair, According to Science
To lessen the effects of how products can induce frizz in warmer weather, consider using glycerin-free products.
Can my curl pattern change?
It is possible that your curl pattern can change. Trichologist and NaturallyCurly contributor Dr. Kari Williams attributes the change in one’s curl pattern to a change in the endocrine system:
“Ultimately, anytime someone is experiencing a systemic condition, especially an endocrine dysfunction, it will interrupt the growth cycle. Because the growth was affected, there is nothing that can be corrected externally. Similar to women who go through chemotherapy, this may just be the new texture of her hair. Another thing she can do is try to get a hair mineral analysis, which will determine the mineral and nutrients level in the blood and that may play a role in how her hair is growing. The change in the system is due to the systemic interruption. There is no guarantee that the original curl pattern will come back. It will depend on the balance of her system.”
There is no “natural” way to permanently alter your curl pattern. Texturizers are simply milder relaxer and they will not transform you from a Type 4 to a Type 3. It will merely loosen what you already have but not widen the circumference of the curls.
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