Type 1B hair isn’t too flat or too wavy – it’s that perfect in-between.
It looks like you can eat your cake and have it after all. With type 1B hair, you can have it straight or curled, worn down or in updos, and all styles will hold well. But it also means that your hair can share the downsides of other hair types as well (hello oily roots and dry ends!). Here’s what you need to know to enjoy your reflection in the mirror every day.
This hair type is straight but not as stick-straight and smooth as type 1A hair. It has a bit of body and volume to it because the individual strands are thicker, and it usually looks soft and shiny. Type 1B hair appears straight when wet, but as it dries, it can form the gentlest flicks at the ends or slight bends from the midshaft down.
“If you’ve ever found your hair doesn’t curl easily but also doesn’t stay perfectly sleek without some product or heat, you’re likely in the 1B category,” says Wella senior ambassador Charles Junior Louw. Unlike the straighter hair type, 1B locks are not completely resistant to styling. The hints of waves in your locks respond well to curling but can be straightened just as successfully.
Like with all in-between types, type 1B hair can be difficult to pinpoint as it shares the qualities of other subtypes. What’s even more confusing is that one head of hair can have different hair types throughout.
Overall, 1B hair is visually not completely flat, fine, and silky like 1A – it has a bit of natural body and texture. Unlike 1C, which leans wavy, 1B type is largely straight with a little bounce. “This texture is commonly found in individuals of European descent,” notes stylist Joie Wallace.
The right haircut makes styling 1B hair much easier. Here are four options to try:
The slight kinks of 1B strands will make it easy to style a pixie with soft layers.
@hair.byallisonbailey
A shaggy bob enhances natural volume and works well with the subtle wave in 1B hair.
@weilinouthair
A super versatile cut that has enough length to show off your texture but short enough to keep your style lightweight.
@jays.parlour
Subtle layers with slightly choppy ends add dimension to long locks without disrupting the natural bends.
@emilyvictoriahair
Type 1B hair needs a light touch – almost literally. Lightweight shampoo and conditioner lay a solid foundation for a great hairstyle. “Look for words like ‘volumizing’ or ‘clarifying’ if you get oily roots quickly,” advises Charles.
Scalp health is just as important. “Because 1B can lie closer to the scalp, oils and buildup show faster,” he says and recommends a gentle scalp exfoliant once a week for freshness.
Unless you’re heat styling, tread lightly on heavy silicones, as they can build up and flatten your pattern. Want a sleek style? Always use a heat protector and stay under 160°C/320°F, or you’ll end up with limp, greasy-looking strands.
For texture, Wella Eimi Dry Me is a great dry shampoo – even on clean hair, it adds lift at the crown. Wella Ocean Spritz gives a beachy finish, especially if you twist your damp hair into braids or buns overnight.
Joie often uses and recommends Amika Mousse. “It adds incredible volume without leaving the hair sticky or stiff,” she says. For those who love soft, matte shine to their locks, Kenra Professional Shine Spray is a fabulous option.
Excited to try a new style? Check out easy-to-care-for hairstyles for straight hair and pick your next star look!
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