The Ultimate Hair Care Glossary

Afro hair, also known as Type 4 hair, is characterised by its tight curls and spongy texture. It's naturally dry and delicate, with strands growing in a coil-like pattern, which gives it a voluminous, 'afro' appearance. 

For afro hair, you want to use products which provide deep hydration, strengthen hair, and prevent breakage, such as sulphate-free Shampoos and Conditioners. Deep, leave-in conditioners help to detangle hair and butter creams define curls - so you can let your natural style shine. 

Anti-dandruff refers to the prevention or treatment of dandruff, a common scalp condition characterised by flaking of the skin on the scalp. Dandruff can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, sensitivity to hair products, and fungal factors. 

Hair care products that contain moisturising or active ingredients such as Pyrithione Zinc help to manage dandruff. Get to the root of the problem by opting for shampoos containing the antifungal agent Ketoconazole to help control flaking, scaling, and itching. Coal Tar can slow the overproduction of skin cells; and Selenium Sulphide helps to prevent and treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. If you have severe or persistent dandruff, consult a dermatologist or hair care professional. 

Coloured hair refers to hair that has been dyed or highlighted with artificial colour. This process can range from subtle changes, like adding a few highlights, to dramatic transformations, like changing from black to platinum blonde - the bolder the better. 

For maintaining the health and vibrancy of coloured hair, extra care is required. Who doesn’t love an at-home hair treatment? These help to repair damage caused by the colouring process, strengthening hair, and reducing breakage. Our top tips? Look for shampoos and conditioners with smart, targeted delivery systems to help seal in colour and prevent fading; try to limit heat styling; and use hair oils and serums to provide hydration and the healthiest looking shine.

Coily hair, also known as kinky or Type 4 hair, is typically classified into three types: Type 4A, 4B, and 4C.

1. Type 4A hair has tight, well-defined, spiral curls that have the circumference of a crochet needle. These have a visible 'S' pattern when stretched. 

2. Type 4B hair has a less defined pattern of curls and looks more like a 'Z' as the hair bends with very sharp angles. 

3. Type 4C hair is similar to 4B but with tighter curls. The curl pattern may not be as defined and it can feel more wiry or coarse - hydrating products are your heroes.

This hair type is often fragile and prone to dryness and shrinkage, requiring specific care to maintain its health and enhance its natural texture. Look for products that nourish and provide intense moisture. When possible, avoid harsh sulphates and opt for gentle, sulphate-free shampoos. These will soften and detangle your coils, helping your hair to shine from the inside out.

Curly hair, also known as Type 3 hair, forms defined curls with a spiral shape and is typically classified into three types: Type 3A, 3B, and 3C.

1. Type 3A hair has loose, large curls that are well-defined and springy.

2. Type 3B hair has medium-sized curls that are usually the size of a marker pen. They can be springy and voluminous.

3. Type 3C hair has tight corkscrew curls that can be either kinky or very tightly curled. The curls are densely packed together, giving the hair lots of volume. 

The best curly hair products are those that provide moisture, reduce frizz, and define curls. Moisturising shampoos can help hydrate curly hair, which tends to be naturally dry. We love a weekly deep conditioning treatment for hair manageability, and lightweight hair oils can help add shine without weighing curls down. We're all about bringing back your bounce. 

Damaged hair refers to hair that has been physically or chemically altered, leading to a loss of natural moisture and protein. This can result in symptoms such as dryness, dullness, split ends, breakage, and frizziness. Damage can be caused by various factors, including excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental stressors. 

To repair and protect damaged hair, at-home treatments and nourishing hair masks are your best friend. These products are designed to rebuild and fortify hair while reducing breakage and restoring hair’s elasticity. Remember, to prevent further damage, reduce heat styling, use a heat protectant when necessary, and get regular trims to remove split ends. We’re taking notes. 

Dry hair indicates a lack of moisture and natural oils in the hair strands and scalp, leading to a brittle, dull, and lifeless appearance. It can be caused by various factors, including environmental conditions, excessive heat styling, over-washing, and using harsh hair products. 

Treat and prevent dry hair by using products infused with antioxidant-rich Argan Oil and replenishing nutrients. These help to hydrate and revitalise hair, locking in moisture with a blend of silk proteins. Intensive treatments and conditioners that are free from harsh chemicals deeply moisturise dry hair while increasing shine - our hair heroes. 

Wavy hair, also known as Type 2 hair, forms loose, S-shaped waves and is typically classified into three types: Type 2A, 2B, and 2C.

1. Type 2A hair is fine and thin with a slight 'S' pattern, often being easy to handle in terms of styling.

2. Type 2B hair has waves that tend to adhere to the shape of your head, being a bit frizzier and harder to style. 

3. Type 2C hair is wavy and voluminous with a more defined 'S' pattern that starts at the roots, often being thicker, coarser, and the frizziest of the Type 2 category.

The best products for wavy hair are those that enhance the natural wave pattern, reduce frizz, and add moisture. Opt for hydrating shampoos and conditioners, curl enhancing creams or mousses, and anti-frizz serums or sprays.