The different curl types (3A, 3B, 3C)

Every type 3 curly-haired person is different – ​​and that's exactly what makes them so unique.

3A – large, soft, spiral curls

These curls are often shiny, slightly weighed down, and quickly lose definition with too much moisture or overly heavy products.

3B – spiral corkscrews with large volume

They tend to be frizzy, need plenty of moisture, and can tolerate light to medium amounts of protein.

3C – small, very dense spiral curls

3C curls are very defined, but often dry. They need intense moisture, richer conditioning, and good gel hold.

The most common challenges with Type 3 curly hair

Type 3 curls have unique needs. Most struggle with:

• Dryness due to the spiral shape
• Frizz in humid conditions
• finer tips
• lack of definition after sleeping
• faster product build-up
  

To ensure your curls shine in every situation, let's look at the perfect routine.

The perfect curling routine for type 3 hair

1. Clean gently – but retain moisture

A healthy curly hair care routine always starts with a mild, moisturizing shampoo.

Important: Sulfate-free, without drying alcohols, with aloe or coconut.

Pro tip:

Always wash curls in sections – this prevents tangling and protects the curl structure.

2. Care & detangling – the most important phase for type 3

Type 3 curls need a lot of slip, i.e., lubrication, so that they can be detangled without hair breakage.

Ideal conditioners contain:

• Aloe Vera
• Jojoba oil
• Shea butter
• castor oil

Here's how:

• Apply conditioner in sections
• Detangle with a Denman brush, a wide-toothed comb, or your fingers.
• Leave to soak in for a few minutes
• Rinse with cold water for extra shine
  

3. Deep Care: Masks for Strength & Definition

Type 3 curls benefit enormously from regular deep-conditioning treatments – ideally once a week.

The following are important:

• Hydration (aloe, glycerin, honey)
• lightweight proteins (rice protein, wheat protein)
• rich oils for the ends

A good mask ensures:

✔ More defined curls

✔ less frizz

✔ less hair breakage

✔ more shine

4. Leave-In & Curl Cream – Definition starts here

Leave-in conditioner and curl cream are essential for type 3 curls.

Why?

They moisturize your curls, smooth the cuticle and ensure the perfect curl shape.
3A: light leave-in conditioners, little product
3B: medium creams, moderate amount
3C: rich creams, more product per section

5. Gel – for perfect and long-lasting definition

A gel is the crucial step that makes type 3 curls more defined and helps them hold their shape.

A good gel:

• forms a cast (provides support)
• protects against frizz
• makes curls look defined for longer

Pro tip:

Scrunch the cast out after it dries – for soft, but perfectly defined curls.

6. Drying – air drying or diffusing?

Both are possible!

Diffuser = more volume + faster definition

Air drying = less frizz + natural fall

Important :

• Bend your head forward
• Do not move the diffuser
• Use Low Heat / Low Speed

7. Refresh – how to keep curls beautiful for 3–5 days

In the morning, a light refresh is usually sufficient:

• Dampen curls with a water mist.
• Scrunch some leave-in conditioner or gel into the lengths of your hair.
• Pop with a microfiber cloth
• Air drying or, in short, diffusing

8. Nighttime protection – how to keep your curls intact

Type 3 curls benefit enormously from:

• Satin pillowcase
• Satin bonnet
• Pineapple method
• Lightweight protective styles

Here's how to prevent:

✔ Hair breakage

✔ Frizz

✔ dry ends

✔ Flat, undefined curls in the morning

Conclusion: The perfect routine for type 3 curls


Type 3 curls need a good balance of moisture, care, and definition. With the right routine, they will remain defined, shiny, and healthy for days.

With the right care, the right products and a little patience, you can achieve your most beautiful curls – every day.