Learn how to make the most of your type 2A hair with the right cuts and products.
Having type 2A hair means you’re in the sweet spot between straight and wavy. It can be tricky to navigate, but your hair can look casually chic with the right knowledge and care. This guide will walk you through what makes 2A hair unique, the best cuts for your texture, and styling tips that work wonders.
This hair type is the perfect mix of almost straight strands with a slight wave. As hairstylist Marcela Hernandez explains, “2A would best be defined as a natural wave hair type, recognized as the straighter type of curl than the rest of the curly hair types.”
This means that your hair tends to fall in loose, soft waves rather than tight curls. The wave pattern is subtle but noticeable. Often straight at the roots, it forms a slight S-shape or a delicate flick closer to the end of a strand. “Your hair texture is normally fine to medium with light tousled or a bend shape,” notices Evie, master stylist at Rockstar Salon. It’s a texture that benefits from thoughtful layering and the right products to avoid flatness or frizz.
Get the most out of your 2A hair with the right haircut! Soft, layered styles amplify the natural bend and bring out its wave pattern. Here are four great options to try:
Layering keeps the weight from dragging your long waves down. It will add dimension and encourage a more defined wave, especially at the ends. As Larisa Love™ notes, “Layered cuts help the natural bend and wave come out as the hair moves.”
Shags enjoy their slice of popularity and they’re perfect for 2A hair! With their messy, lived-in finish, they add unrivaled texture and natural volume. Opt for choppy layers to give your waves a boost and create a more carefree vibe.
A bob with light layering gives your hair shape and plenty of body. If you feel your hair is straighter at the root and tends to fall flat by the end of the day, a bob length will set your waves free. “The 2A wave would take shape and give a beautiful silhouette with the perfect layers,” believes Marcela Hernandez.
For shorter hair lovers, a shaggy textured pixie can be very flattering. Avoid super graphic cuts and harsh partings and go for long tousled layers instead. This haircut won’t take you ages to style in the morning and it grows out nicely.
To get that perfect style for 2A hair, focus on lightweight, wave-friendly products that provide moisture and definition. Hairstylist Marcela Hernandez, who has 2A hair herself, swears by Bed Head After Party for smoothing, Bed Head Curls Rock Amplifier for volume and hold, and Mizani Miracle Cream for moisture. For styling, Larisa Love™ recommends Joico’s Luster Lock to add shine and softness, along with Zero Heat for texture without the frizz.
Since 2A hair leans more on the straight side, avoid heavy creams or gels that might flatten your waves. Instead, opt for mousse or lightweight creams that enhance the natural body. Volumizing and texturizing products will create lift at the root and lend your hair a beachy feel. When drying, air-drying or diffusing on a low setting will keep the wave pattern intact without encouraging frizz.
Now that you know how to care for your type 2A hair, explore more ways to style your waves with our articles on 30 Inspiring Layered Wavy Hair Ideas for a Gorgeous Look and 60 Most Magnetizing Hairstyles for Thick Wavy Hair.
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