Wavy or Curly Hair – What’s the Difference?

Understanding whether your hair is wavy or curly changes everything. Learn how to identify your type and give it the care it truly needs – from BAM Hair Salon.

Not sure if your hair is wavy or curly? Understanding your hair type is the first step to finding the right products, cuts, and treatments. At BAM Hair Salon, we often see two common mistakes: many clients assume they have straight hair when it’s actually wavy — or they treat their wavy hair as if it’s curly. Both can lead to underwhelming results.

By comparing wavy vs curly hair in texture, styling, and care needs, we reveal how unique each type truly is.

How can you tell the difference between wavy and curly hair?

The main difference lies in the shape of the strand and the tightness of the wave or curl.

Wavy Hair

Wavy hair forms loose, flowing “S” shapes, usually more visible towards the ends. The roots are flatter, and the wave develops gradually as the hair grows downward. It tends to frizz slightly and can look uneven without the right care.

Wavy hair is categorized into:

  • 2A: Very light waves, nearly straight with soft bends.
  • 2B: Defined waves with some frizz.
  • 2C: Deep waves with coarse texture, often confused with curly hair.

Curly Hair

Curly hair features tighter, more defined spirals that begin near the scalp. The texture is denser, with visible volume and bounce. It requires more hydration and richer products for definition.

Curly hair is categorized into:

  • 3A: Loose ringlets with shine.
  • 3B: Springy, tighter curls with more density.
  • 3C: Very tight curls, almost afro-textured, with lots of volume.

How to identify your hair type at home

After washing, let your hair air-dry naturally — without using a brush. Then observe:

  • If the pattern is loose and soft: wavy
  • If curls form evenly and tightly: curly
  • If it’s a mix of both: combination hair, needing a tailored care approach

Key features of wavy hair

  • Less volume than curly hair
  • Gets oily faster
  • Can be styled straight or curlier
  • Needs lightweight moisture and wave-enhancing products

Key features of curly hair

  • More volume and elasticity
  • Tends to be dry and frizzy
  • Requires deeper hydration and curl definition
  • Needs proper layering and regular deep conditioning

What cuts work best for each type?

  • Wavy hair benefits from cuts that enhance its movement, like shag styles or soft layers.
  • Curly hair needs structured layering, shaped to your face, so the volume falls where it’s most flattering.

Styling & care: wavy vs curly hair

The golden rule? Less manipulation, more texture enhancement. While basic routines (shampoo, conditioner, leave-in, oil) are similar, the formulas must suit your hair type.

Understanding your natural pattern helps personalize your routine — and that’s where results begin.

Product Picks for Wavy Hair

  • Shampoo: HYDRATE-ME.WASH
Shampoo for Wavy hair
  • Conditioner: HYDRATE-ME.RINSE
Conditioner for Wavy Hair
  • Styling: HAIR.RESORT.SPRAY
Best styling product for wavy hair

Product Picks for Curly Hair

  • Shampoo: Essential Love Curl Shampoo
Shampoo for curly hair
  • Conditioner: Essential Love Curl Conditioner
Conditioner for curly hair
  • Styling: KILLER.CURLS
Styling product in cream for curly hair

Our philosophy at BAM Hair Salon

At BAM, we guide you based on your natural hair type. We don’t push “straight hair for all” — we celebrate what makes you unique.

We only use clean beauty products from brands like Kevin Murphy and Davines, and we tailor every service to your hair’s real needs.

Every product, cut, or treatment we recommend is fully personalized — because your hair deserves it.

Knowing your type changes everything

Knowing whether your hair is wavy or curly can transform how you care for it. More importantly, it reshapes how you feel about your natural beauty.

Still unsure about your type? Book a consultation at BAM Hair Salon and let’s discover your ideal hair routine — together.

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