Hair Type 3a
People with hair type 3a usually have quite a bit of hair, most of it set in loose, shiny curls which become more defined as the hair grows out. The hair itself is packed with elasticity, but its shape can be damaged with overly rough treatment. The curls are large, about the size of a piece of sidewalk chalk.
3a is a style many Americans attempt with hair curlers, but naturally its particular style lends itself to European countries such as Greece, Hungary, or Romania. African Americans also fall on the debatable line between 3a and 3b but their hair is naturally so kinky it’s hard to give them just one definitive classification.
Like all curly hair, it can be difficult to control.
The S-shape of the hair can be fragile and is prone to damage from extreme heat or pressure, such as long term use of a hair straightener or yanking the hair back into a ponytail every day to avoid dealing with it. Humidity leeches in easily, tightening the curls and causing frizz. Hair type 3a can benefit from a handful of leave-in conditioner, or an anti-frizz agent such as mousse or a light gel.< Hairspray is effective to help hold the curl’s shape but can also make the hair sticky or cause the curls to clump together. Perhaps not as effective as some products which help the curl hold its form, a bit of baby oil goes a long way towards keeping frizz down. Look for a name brand product that promises curl activation along with anti-frizz properties and you’re on your way to making large, glossy curls work for you.