Classic Ringlet Curl Hair

Portrait of a woman with defined ringlet curls
Photo: Juli Kosolapova / Unsplash — Unsplash License

Classic Ringlet Curl Hair (Type 3B)

Quick look

  • Type code: Type 3B — Classic Ringlet Curl Hair.
  • Texture & porosity: Tighter corkscrews with smaller diameter groupings and higher surface area, so porosity rises quickly when the cuticle is roughed up.1,2
  • Risk factors: Traditional thinning, razor passes, or brushing while dry will split curl families and cause halo frizz.2
  • Tool pairing: Keep everything dry with ultra-sharp convex shears; reach for reversible blenders only at the mid-shaft and use clips to isolate curl families.2

Why it matters

These ringlets thrive on definition. Respecting curl groupings, snipping only what you see, and avoiding slide motions keeps the pattern juicy and weight balanced around the silhouette.2

Technique map

  • Dust the outline with minimal tension; any stretching will spring back shorter than planned.2
  • Lift small curl bundles and micro-snips the interior with the tips of a convex shear to control expansion without flattening.2
  • Use the pinch-and-talk technique to release internal weight—closing the shear only as you glide with the curl keeps edges smooth.2
  • Finish by diffusing on low heat or air-drying; once set, break the cast with a lightweight oil on the palms for shine and separation.3,4

Usage notes

  1. Work section-by-section with clips so each curl family is cut without disturbing its neighbors.2
  2. Alternate elevation direction through the crown to avoid building a lump or shelf across the back of the head.2
  3. Blot with microfiber towels and scrunch product upward; wiping downward stretches the coil.3,4

Maintenance / Client Care

  • Recommend leave-in conditioners plus light oils mid-length to ends to reduce combing forces and protect against environmental frizz.4
  • Suggest sleeping on a satin pillowcase or using a loose pineapple to preserve definition overnight.3
  • Plan trims every six to eight weeks so curl groupings stay even as interior weight grows out.2

Related Types & Sources

Related hair types: Loose Spiral Curl Hair (Type 3A), Tight Corkscrew Curl Hair (Type 3C)

Sources

  1. Simultaneous hair cross-section and curvature analysis
  2. Weight Removal 101
  3. Tips for Styling a Messy Bob Hairstyle
  4. Hair Cosmetics: An Overview

Related Hair types