How Do You Identify Your Hair Type?

Understanding your hair type is the first step toward building a routine that works. Whether your strands are curly, oily, dry, or somewhere in between, knowing your unique hair characteristics helps you choose the right products—from shampoo for dry hair to hair oil for curly hair. Here's how to decode your hair type and take better care of your locks.

How Can You Tell if Your Hair is Oily or Dry?

Start by skipping shampoo for a day or two. If your roots feel greasy, your hair likely leans oily. On the other hand, if your strands feel rough, brittle, or dull, you might be dealing with dryness.

Oily hair often needs lightweight, balancing products. A good oily hair shampoo should cleanse thoroughly without stripping the scalp.

Dry hair, however, craves nourishment. A moisturizing shampoo for dry hair and hair oil for dry hair can help restore shine and softness.

How Can You Determine if Your Hair is Damaged or Healthy?

Healthy hair feels soft, is easy to detangle, and has natural shine. If your ends split easily, break when brushed, or feel rough and lifeless, these may be signs of damage.

Look out for:

• Frizz that won't smooth out

• Dull color or lack of elasticity

• Snapping strands when stretched

Incorporating deep-conditioning treatments and using heat-protectant sprays can help reduce further damage.

How Do You Know if You Have Curly or Coily Hair?

Curls come in many forms—loose waves, springy spirals, or tight coils. To find your curly hair type, look at your hair when it air-dries with no styling.

Different hair types in the curl spectrum include:

• Type 2 (Wavy): Light S-shaped waves

• Type 3 (Curly): Defined ringlets or spirals

• Type 4 (Coily): Tight coils or zig-zag patterns

Each curly hair type has unique moisture and styling needs. For instance, types of curly hair usually benefit from hydrating products and gentle detangling methods.

How Can You Check if Your Scalp is Healthy?

A healthy scalp should feel comfortable, not itchy, flaky, or overly oily. Check your scalp under natural light. If it appears red, excessively shiny, or flaky, it might be time to switch up your routine.

Balanced scalp care is crucial for every hair type. Choose a shampoo that targets your scalp’s condition, whether it’s dryness, oiliness, or irritation.

How Do You Know if You Need Extra Moisture for Your Hair?

Here are a few tell-tale signs your hair needs more hydration:

• Difficulty retaining curl or style

• Frizz or rough texture

• Breakage when combing or brushing

Adding moisture doesn't have to mean heavy oils. For many, especially those with curly hair types, using a lightweight hair oil for dry hair or a leave-in conditioner can work wonders.

Final Thoughts

Everyone’s hair is unique, and understanding your specific hair type—whether it’s dry, oily, curly, or coily—is key to creating a routine that works. At Cosmolux, we believe great hair care starts with great self-knowledge. Choose products that match your hair’s needs, and give your strands the love they deserve.