Hair Types 101: The Key to Effortless, Great-Looking Hair

Ever wonder why some hair products work like magic while others fall flat? It all comes down to knowing your hair type.

Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily, understanding its unique texture is the key to effortless styling and long-term hair health.

The Hair Type Classification System—a go-to method used by barbers and stylists—breaks hair down into four main types, each with its own set of characteristics. Think of it as your personal roadmap to finding the best cuts, products, and styling techniques for your hair.

That’s why we crafted Glacial Clay Pomade and Glacial Cream—both designed to work with your hair, not against it. Once you know your type, you’ll know exactly which product will keep your style looking sharp, natural, and effortlessly fresh.

Type 1: Straight Hair

• 1A: Very straight, fine, and smooth with no wave or curl

• 1B: Straight but with more volume and texture

• 1C: Straight with coarse strands and a slight body

Type 2: Wavy Hair

• 2A: Loose, soft waves with minimal definition (easily straightened)

• 2B: Defined “S” shaped waves that are more prone to frizz

• 2C: Coarse, thick waves with more definition and frizz

Type 3: Curly Hair

• 3A: Loose, springy curls with a defined shape (soft, shiny spirals)

• 3B: Tighter curls with more volume and less shine (coarser texture)

• 3C: Tight corkscrew curls, dense and coarse

Type 4: Coily/Kinky Hair

• 4A: Tight, small coils with an “S” pattern; retains moisture but prone to shrinkage

• 4B: Z-shaped curls that are tightly coiled and soft but less defined

• 4C: Very tight curls with no specific curl pattern, often the most fragile and prone to shrinkage

Each of the four types of hair can be further subdivided in the following three categories:

• Type A: Fine Hair

• Type B: Medium Hair

• Type C: Coarse Hair

For example Type 1A hair means you have straight hair that is fine in thickness.

1. Scalp Health: Refers to scalp conditions and changes in natural oil production that can impact how hair grows and feels

2. Density: The amount of hair per square inch on the scalp (thin, medium, thick)

3. Porosity: The ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture (low, normal, high)

4. Elasticity: The ability of hair to stretch and return to its original length

• ✅ Want a strong, structured style? Go with Pomade.
• ✅ Prefer soft, natural texture with movement? Styling Cream is your go-to.
• ✅ Looking for the best of both worlds? Blend them for a flexible, controlled finish.

No matter your style, Highland’s got your hair covered—with clean, high-performance ingredients that actually work.

For sleek, structured styles that hold their shape.

✅ Best for: Straight (1B, 1C), Wavy (2A, 2B), and some Curly (3A) Hair Types

🔹 Why You’ll Love It:

• Locks in your style with a clean, medium-firm hold—without stiffness or greasiness.

• Adds a natural matte finish with just the right amount of texture.

• Keeps flyaways and frizz under control, even in unpredictable weather.

• Rinses out easily, thanks to our 9 all-natural ingredients.

💇‍♂️ Best Styles for Pomade:

✔ Slicked-back styles (Straight 1B, 1C)

✔ Side-part & comb-over (Wavy 2A, 2B)

✔ Pompadour or Quiff (Straight 1C, Wavy 2B)

✔ Defined curls or waves (Curly 3A)

For effortless, touchable styles with natural movement.

✅ Best for: Wavy (2B, 2C), Curly (3A, 3B), and Coily (4A, 4B, 4C) Hair Types

🔹 Why You’ll Love It:

• Lightweight & hydrating—gives your hair that soft, natural look without the crunch.

• Enhances waves and curls, making them defined yet touchable.

• Tames frizz while keeping your hair flexible and easy to restyle throughout the day.

• Packed with nourishing ingredients to keep your hair looking healthy and strong.

💇‍♂️ Best Styles for Styling Cream:

✔ Messy, textured waves (Wavy 2B, 2C)

✔ Soft, natural curls (Curly 3A, 3B)

✔ Defined, moisturized coils (Coily 4A, 4B, 4C)

✔ Medium-length, effortless styles for a relaxed, lived-in look