Curly - Type 3 curl

 

Type 3 Curly Hair – Define, Moisturize & Love Your Curls

Let’s dive into how to care for Type 3 curly hair and bring out its natural beauty.

What Is Type 3 Curly Hair?

Type 3 curls are defined by their spiral shape and range in tightness:

• 3A: Loose, big curls with shine but prone to frizz

• 3B: Springy, ringlet curls with more volume and texture

• 3C: Tightly formed curls that are closely packed, have a lot of volume, and are more delicat

Type 3 curls usually need consistent moisture, curl definition, and frizz control — without heavy buildup or ingredients that suffocate the curl.

Common Type 3 Curl Struggles

• Frizz in humid or dry weather

• Dryness and breakage, especially at the ends

• Inconsistent curl definition

• Shrinkage and tangles

• Product overload or “weighed-down” curls

But with a routine tailored to your curl type, you can bring out bouncy, hydrated, defined curls every day.

Your Pretty Curly Girl Curly Girl Approved Routine for Type 3 Hair

Here’s how to create a curly routine using CG-approved products, designed for bounce, definition, and softness.

1. Cleanse – Without Stripping

Use a mild cleanser or co-wash that removes dirt without drying your curls. Type 3 hair often benefits from weekly washing to avoid buildup, especially if you use stylers.

Try:

• Reset Shampoo – Clarifying shampoo to remove build-up.

• Peppermint Clean Shampoo – for regular every week mild cleansing

• Peppermint Fresh Co-wash - to freshen your curls inbetween washes 

Tip: Massage the scalp with your fingertips to stimulate hair growth and ensure a clean scalp.

2. Moisturize Deeply

Hydration is key. Use a rich, silicone-free conditioner after every wash to detangle and soften your curls. Once a week, treat your curls to a deep conditioning mask for intense moisture.

Try:

• Intense Moisture Deep Conditioner or Intense Protein Deep Conditioner 

3. Define with Leave-In + Gel or Cream

Start with a Leave-In Conditioner to lock in moisture, then add a  gel  for hold and definition.

Try:

• Extra Loving Leave-In Conditioner

• Magical Flaxseed Gel (moisturizing gel)

• Flexible Hold Gel 

Tip: Apply on soaking wet hair using the “praying hands” method or rake + scrunch technique for even distribution.

4. Dry with Care

Avoid rough towels — instead, use a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt to scrunch out excess water. Diffuse on low heat or air dry to preserve curl pattern.

Once dry, scrunch out the crunchl, to reveal soft, touchable curls.

5. Refresh Between Washes

To keep your curls fresh between wash days, use our Rose Water refresh to reactive the products. 

Tip: Pineappling your hair at night or using a satin bonnet helps preserve curls and avoid frizz.

Do Type 3 Curls Need Protein?

Yes — protein helps strengthen your curls, maintain bounce, and reduce breakage. However, too much protein can cause stiffness. Alternate between moisture treatments and protein treatments based on how your curls feel.

Signs you need protein:

• Limp, overly soft curls

• Excessive frizz or breakage

• Curls not holding their shape

Try:

• Intense Protein Deep Conditioner 

• Protein Rose Refresh Spray 

 

Best Pretty Curly Girl Products for Type 3 Curls

Here’s our top curly-approved lineup for spiral and ringlet curls:

• Peppermint Clean Shampoo – gentle enough for regular use

• Intense Moisture Conditioner – for hydration and slip

• Extra Loving Leave-in conditioner Leave-In – locks in moisture

• Magical Flaxseef  Gel – long-lasting, cast-forming hold

• Flexible Hold Gel – for softness and shape

• Rose Water Refresh Spray– daily refresh magic

Own Your Curls

Type 3 curls aren’t meant to be tamed — they’re meant to be celebrated. With the right care, your curls can go from frizzy and undefined to healthy, shiny, and full of movement.

At Pretty Curly Girl, we create clean, vegan, CG-friendly products that give your curls everything they need — and nothing they don’t.

Be Pretty. Be Curly. Be You.