Coiled hair, known for its unique and captivating appearance, can vary in texture and structure depending on whether it’s in its natural state or has undergone processing. Let’s delve into the characteristics of coiled hair and how it can differ between natural and processed states:
**Natural Coiled Hair:**
1. **Curl Patterns:** Natural coiled hair features distinct curl patterns, often falling into Type 4 categories, such as 4A, 4B, and 4C. These patterns are determined by the shape and tightness of the coils.
2. **Curl Diameter:** The diameter of natural coiled hair curls is typically small, resulting in tight and well-defined coils. The coils can vary from person to person, with some having looser coils (4A) and others having tightly packed coils (4C).
3. **Texture Variety:** Within the realm of natural coiled hair, there is a wide variety of textures. Some individuals may have a mix of curl patterns on their head, adding to the uniqueness of their coiled texture.
4. **Frizz Potential:** Natural coiled hair is prone to frizz due to its textured structure. This can be managed with proper care, including moisturizing and using anti-frizz products.
**Processed Coiled Hair:**
1. **Chemical Treatments:** Processed coiled hair often results from chemical treatments like relaxers or perms. Relaxers straighten the hair, while perms introduce curls or waves. These processes can significantly alter the natural coiled texture.
2. **Looser Curls or Straightening:** Chemical relaxers can lead to looser curl patterns or straight hair, depending on the desired outcome. Perms can create artificial curls that differ from the natural curl pattern.
3. **Texture Changes:** Chemical treatments can affect the texture of coiled hair by breaking down the protein structure. This can make the hair more susceptible to damage and require additional care.
4. **Maintenance Needs:** Processed coiled hair may have different maintenance requirements than natural coiled hair. It often needs specialized products and care routines to maintain its altered texture.
5. **Versatility:** Processed coiled hair offers the versatility of transitioning between straight, wavy, and curly styles, depending on the chemical treatment applied.
In summary, coiled hair, whether natural or processed, is characterized by its tight and well-defined curls and coils. Natural coiled hair showcases a wide range of curl patterns and textures, making it beautifully unique. Processed coiled hair, on the other hand, results from chemical treatments that can alter the natural texture, providing different styling possibilities. Understanding the distinctions between natural and processed coiled hair can help individuals make informed decisions about their hair care and styling choices.
