Yip, we have the same tight, u-shape wavy curl pattern that spirals towards the ends. * (see pic below)
But, if we
were to use each other routine and products, neither of us would be happy with
the outcome.
And
here’s why…
BUT
FIRST, SOME HAIR KNOWLEDGE…
There are a number of
different factors that determines the way our hair looks, feels and behaves.
One
major factor is our hair type, which
is the natural physical properties or characteristics of our hair, such as its
texture (or strand size), its porosity, its density to name a few.
Another
major factor is the ‘health’ of our
hair. This is an assessment of the physical condition of our hair from what is optimal.
Some of the things that are looked at,
is the strength of the hair, its elasticity, how intact the cuticle layer is,
how intact the ends are (i.e. is it splitting, or knotted), its hydration
levels etc.
Then
there are external/lifestyle
factors, such as the climate you live in (whether tropical, dry or temperate),
the environment you’re constantly exposed to (indoor with AC vs outdoor in the
hot sun), where you work (e.g. hospital – high exposure to bacteria, virus etc.)
and what you do (do you swim often, do you work out).
These factors, along with one’s
personal goals, are what we use to provide tailored haircare routines and
product recommendations.
NOW
BACK TO EXPLAINING WHY
Our
hair type varies across a number of different properties – for instance, Rachel’s
hair is low porosity while mine is medium porosity.
The
condition of our hair also differs – for instance, Rachel has excellent
elasticity throughout her head, whereas I have an area at the front with very
low elasticity due to tension damage.
As
does our lifestyle – I work out almost every single morning.
Additionally,
so does our individual goal – Rachel lives for volume, whereas I want
definition and longevity.
Since
these factors differ, naturally our routines and product choices would also
differ. But guess what; out of alllll of
the factors that we considered, the way that our hair looks (i.e. our curl
pattern) was never a factor!
And,
that my Curlfriends, is why even though Rachel and I share the same curl pattern, we wouldn't use each other's products or routine. It's also why we don’t use your curl pattern to recommend
routines or products. It’s also one of the reasons why, you telling us that you
are 3C, 4A, etc. over the phone or internet cannot help us help you. Furthermore, it's also
the reason why so many of you, following the routine and products from your
favourite Influencer, are still struggling!
Well that and misdiagnosis. But that’s another story for another day!