3A Hair Beginner’s Guide: Essential Products for Defined Curls

If you’ve recently discovered that your loose, springy curls fall into the 3A hair category, you are about to start a profitable hair care journey. How you take care of your hair is largely dependent on the hair type. However, not everyone knows their hair type either because they don’t care to know or they don’t know how to know. If you are one of those, you can take a hair quiz to discover the type of hair you have. 

It is exciting to know that those with 3A hair usually enjoy bouncy curls that form a “S” pattern and a wide diameter. Unfortunately, some 3A hair don’t give the best look because they are not given the proper care and products they need. This guide is here to walk you through the needed products to maintain healthy, defined 3A curls.

3A Hair and Its Needs

In the curly hair type 3 spectrum, 3A hair is the first among other two (3B and 3C). This hair type has loose spiral curls that are not so easy to maintain. They need special care that is different from straight and wavy hair because of their curly pattern.

You might wonder why such unique bouncy hair needs special attention. One of the issues with 3A curls is that they dry off quickly because the natural oils on the scalp find it difficult to flow down the curve. Not only that, they can be shapeshifters sometimes - they can easily be manipulated into different curl patterns.

Before we dive into the product recommendation for your hair, you need to know that care for 3A hair is not just about the curl pattern, the porosity also matters. The porosity of hair is the ability of that hair to take in or retain moisture. Your hair has low porosity if it does not easily absorb moisture and it has high porosity if it does otherwise.

Essential Products for 3A Hair

Now that you know your hair type, it is time to unravel the exact product you need to keep a bouncy, defined, 3A hair curls.

Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Using a sulfate shampoo can be harmful to your hair. Sulfates strip curls of their natural oils which leads to dryness and frizz. To maintain that good 3A hair routine, you need the right shampoo - one without sulfate. Consider using water-based, lightweight formulas specifically labeled for curly hair. A popular choice is the GK Hair Moisturizing Shampoo.

Pre-Wash Treatments

Sometimes after washing, you don’t get the desired result because of product residue that has built up in your curls. Use a pre-wash treatment that will help breakdown oils and product build-up your shampoo might miss. This step will create a good clear way for the rest of your routine.

Rinse-Out Conditioner

A light weight conditioner is needed for your 3A curls, especially if yours is of low porosity. These formulas will provide moisture without weighing down your hair. If you have very fine 3A curls, you will need a leave-in conditioner that can double as a rinse-out conditioner.

Deep Conditioning Treatment

To overcome dryness, you will need a deep conditioning mask at least once a week. This treatment will provide thorough moisture that can help repair any existing damage. It uses hydrated oils and humectants to moisturize curls without leaving them greasy.

Curl Creams

Curl cream is needed after you’ve successfully shampooed and conditioned your hair. It will enhance your natural curl pattern. Before you pick that curl cream off the shelf, or before placing an order, check if it has argan or avocado oil. This is to ensure that it boosts your hair definition while providing hydration at the same time. A cream like CurlsDefineHer will help you to achieve that texture you desire.

Styling Gels

Styling gels can define and clump 3A curls without making them feel rigid. There are several products that can help you achieve that clump.

How to Use These Products Effectively

Now that you know the product to use, you’ll need to learn how to use it. Method of application is as important as the product itself if you want to achieve the result it promises. Follow these simple steps:

• Don’t forget to always wash your hair with sulfate-free shampoo. Do it once a week to prevent dryness.
• When applying conditioner, focus on your hair mid-length down to the ends. Avoid the scalp completely.
• Detangle your hair gently with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. This applies when applying products.
• Rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle.
• Only apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair before layers of the styling products.
• Dry your hair using the natural air or a diffuser on a low heat setting.