Skip to Content

3A Hair: How To Care & Style With Right Products?

3A Hair: How To Care & Style With Right Products?

Sharing is caring!

Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support :)

If you’re blessed with type 3A hair, providing it with the care it deserves to enhance your natural curls is essential. With its natural bounce and beautiful curls, 3A hair requires a special routine to keep it hydrated, frizz-free, and defined. Besides, it also needs special styling to match the occasion.

What Is 3A Hair Type?

3a Hair is bouncy curly hair that has a little more curve that the wavy hair but the curls aren’t as tight as for people with 4C hair has. 

3a hair type

Best Features Of 3A Hair

  •  Your Hair has a beautiful shine. 
  • Styling 3A hair takes less time compared to other curly hair types.
  • You can easily skip washing your hair or you can opt for washing your hair with just water.
  • Easy to style and complements most hairstyles and hair colors.

Worst Features Of 3A Hair

  • Dryness and frizziness are your biggest enemies.
  • Often deal with oily scalp and dry hair. A combination that requires you to put in extra effort.
  •  Curls can become lose or flat.
  • Need to adhere to a good hair care routine for curly hair with lot of different products.

Ideal Hair Care Routine For 3A Hair With The Right Products

Here’s a detailed hair care routine for 3A hair type:

Incorporate Indian Hair Oiling Treatment

It is one of those long Indian hair secrets that I inherited growing up. On this beauty blog, you will see me recommend hair oils for most of your hair problems because I have treated mine with them. You can also read more about curly hair and its structural data here.

Incorporate a hair oil as per your hair type and concern, warm it up using the double boiler method to enhance its nutrients better, and apply it to your hair and scalp well. Leave it on for 30 minutes then follow it up with a 5-minute pampering session using a thermal steam cap. This will allow blood flow stimulation and better absorption of hair oil for best results.

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil for All Hair Types, 2 Ounce
  • NOURISH & STRENGTHEN: Our nutrient-rich, biotin-infused treatment can be...
  • SMOOTH SPLIT ENDS: This lightweight treatment nourishes split ends for a...
  • SOOTHE DRY SCALP: This rich blend of over 30 essential oils and nutrients...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Hair Steamer for Natural Hair Home Use w/10-level Heats Up Quickly, Heat Cap for Deep Conditioning - Thermal Heat Cap for Black Hair, Great for Deep Conditioner (Black)
  • Deeper Conditioning - The SISWOW hair steamer cap is perfect for deep...
  • Perfect Size for Home Hair Salon – The heating cap for deep conditioner,...
  • Easy to Use - You can use the portable hair steamer for hair anywhere in...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Follow it up with a good scalp massage using the inversion method for hair growth and then continue with your hair-washing routine as usual. 

Shampooing

Start with a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid dryness. Wet hair with lukewarm water, massage in the shampoo, and rinse gently to prevent frizz. You can also opt for co-washing as it works better to hydrate your dry manes while cleansing.

Sale
John Frieda Anti Frizz, Frizz Ease Dream Curls Shampoo, SLS/SLES Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Helps Control Frizz, with Curl Enhancing Technology, 8.45 Fluid Ounces
  • DEFINES AND DETANGLES - Help define and detangle difficult to manage...
  • CARE FOR CURLS WITH CONFIDENCE - Embrace your natural curls with this...
  • CLEANSE & NOURISH - Gently cleanses difficult or unmanageable hair using...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut and Hibiscus for Curly Hair Paraben Free Shampoo 13 oz
  • The SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo gently cleanses...
  • Transform dry, brittle curls into bouncy, vibrant waves and curls with this...
  • Provides hydration that enhances the elasticity of your hair to help define...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sale
Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo - Sulfate SLS Paraben Free Moisturizing Treatment for Women and Men - For All Types Including Curly, Dry, Damaged and Oily Hair - Hydrating and Nourishing - Salon Grade
  • SMOOTHING ARGAN OIL: People love how this argan oil shampoo from Pure...
  • SULFATE FREE: This sulfate free shampoo has been formulated with your...
  • SOFT AND SHINING HAIR: Moroccan argan oil for hair has been used for...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

L'Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz, Set of 2 (Packaging May Vary)
  • Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair: This curly hair shampoo and...
  • Lasting Moisture: Curly hair requires special care, and this sulfate free...
  • The EverPure Hydracharge System: For best results, use EverPure Hydracharge...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Conditioning

Apply a moisturizing conditioner, focusing on mid-lengths and ends. Use a wide-toothed comb or fingers to detangle gently. Rinse with cold water to enhance shine. It is always a good idea to go for silicone-free conditioners that have natural hair oils in them or go for a good volumizing conditioner if you are facing a lack of volume.

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner 13 fl oz (Pack of 2)
  • SHEA BUTTER CONDITIONER: Detangles, moisturizes, and restores lifeless...
  • FORMULATION: Blended with shea butter, nourishes and replenishes hair and...
  • RESTORATIVE TREATMENT: To turn dry and damaged hair to beautifully...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

SheaMoisture Conditioner 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil to Intensely Smooth and Nourish Hair with Shea Butter, Peppermint and Apple Cider Vinegar 13 oz
  • Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil is a reparative rinse-out hair...
  • Rinse-out conditioner is perfect for those who regularly straighten, perm...
  • This hair cleansing conditioner is formulated with Jamaican Black Castor...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Make Hair Rinses Your BFF

Incorporate neem rinse if you want to protect your hair from hard water, fenugreek hair rinse or rosemary hair rinse if you are dealing with hair fall, ACV rinse to remove product build-up and rice water rinse to make your hair overall healthy.

Deep Conditioning Masks

Once a week, use a deep conditioning mask rich in moisture. Apply to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Leave on for a recommended time and rinse thoroughly. These deep conditioning hair masks help your hair achieve the lacking moisture which in turn makes your hair healthier over time.

My favorite deep-conditioning hair masks:

If DIYs aren’t your thing you can try these deep conditioning hair masks which are extremely good at their job.

Sale
Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair - 8.45 Oz
  • Deeply hydrates and moisturizes dry, damaged hair leaving it soft, silky,...
  • Repairs and restores weak, overprocessed hair improving texture, elasticity...
  • Infused with argan oil to nourish hair with essential vitamins and...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Edge Gel, Biotin & Essential Oil Hair Styling Treatment, 2 Ounces
  • SUPPORTS HEALTHY EDGES: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Edge...
  • SMOOTH & STRENGTHEN: Soothe and control dryness, damage, flyaways, frizz,...
  • STIMULATE: This 2-ounce edge tamer is infused with biotin and a nourishing...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

OUAI Fine Hair Conditioner - Volumizing Conditioner for Fine Hair Made with Keratin, Biotin and Chia Seed Oil - Adds Softness, Bounce and Volume - Free from Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates (10 oz)
  • Volumizing Fine Hair Conditioner - When volume is only a button on your...
  • Get Volume So Loud The Neighbors Might Complain - Nourishing volume...
  • OUAI Means Yes - In that casual Parisian way. OUAI is about being better...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Leave-In Conditioner

Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair after washing. This locks in moisture reduces frizz, and enhances curl definition. Distribute using fingers or a wide-toothed comb.

Sale
Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner, Moisturizing Curl Primer and Detangler, Repair Damage and Prevent Frizz, Treatment For Thick Curly Hair Type 4 Hair, 12-Fluid Ounces
  • NATURAL & ORGANIC TREATMENT: Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT LEAVE-IN FORMULA: Our weightless, nutrient-rich leave-in...
  • FRIZZ-FREE SHINE: This daily replenishing protectant quenches even the...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Styling Products

Choose lightweight products for curly hair. Apply curl-enhancing cream or gel or a curl activator of your choice to damp hair to define curls. You can also opt for a good volumizing mousse to achieve that extra bounce and boost of volume. Scrunch and let air dry, or use a diffuser on low heat.

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Refreshing Between Washes

Mist hair with water and some leave-in conditioner to refresh curls between washes. Scrunch gently to reactivate curls, minimizing frizz.

Best Hairstyles To Style 3A Hair

Whether you want to flaunt your natural volume or embrace a trendy look, these five hairstyles will inspire you.

Voluminous Half-Up Half-Down

Showcase your 3a curls’ natural volume by gathering the top section and securing it at the back, leaving the rest flowing freely. This style showcases the gorgeous texture and bounce of your 3a hair while keeping your hair out of your face.

Crown Braids

Part your hair down the middle, braid small sections along your hairline on each side, and secure them at the back for an elegant look. The crown braids not only keep your hair neat but also accentuates the natural beauty of your curls.

Twisted Updo

Twist small sections of hair from the front on each side, securing them at the back, and gather the remaining hair into a loose bun or chignon at the nape of your neck. This hairstyle keeps your curls off your face while showcasing their definition and elegance.

Side-Swept Ponytail

Gather your curls to one side, leaving a few loose tendrils near your face. Secure the ponytail at the nape of your neck, adding a wrapped section for extra flair. This hairstyle is versatile and works well for both casual and formal occasions.

Curly Bob For 3A Hair

Looking for a hairstyle that’s youthful, trendy, and allows your curls to take center stage? A chin-length bob with layers can enhance your 3a curls’ movement and definition. Style with curl-enhancing products and let them air dry, or use a diffuser to diffuse your curly hair.

Space Buns

Space buns perfectly complement your hair type. It looks really cute fun and girlie while flaunting your pretty manes.

Low Ponytail

Low ponytails work really for your hair type. It makes you appear effortless, takes a couple of minutes, and looks gorgeous. You can accessories with different hair accessories with pearls, claw clips work great too as well as a simple scarf just amps up the entire look. 

Shoulder Length Hair Cuts

This haircut won’t make your hair appear weighed down nor will it make your hair appear too short. It’s the perfect length for 3A hair where you can flaunt your beautiful curls. You can also go for modern curly mullet hairstyle as it suits your hair well.

Curly Bangs

You might think that curly hair and bangs don’t go well but think again. A lot of people with curly hair are joining this trend because it looks extremely pretty and sporty. 

Exclusive Hair Hacks For Your Hair Type 3A hair

  • Follow the Curly Girl Method to better enhance your curls and opt for products that are meant specifically for your hair type.
  • Incorporate a good clarifying shampoo for curly hair in your routine to remove excessive product build-up. And go for a hair detox once every two months. 
Sale
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, Clarifying, Removes Buildup, For All Hair Types, Especially Oily Hair, 16.9 fl. oz.
  • Lemony fresh clarifying shampoo deeply cleanses hair and removes dulling...
  • Excellent for oily hair.
  • Color-safe formula leaves hair squeaky-clean, shiny and full of body.

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Be gentle while you are dealing with your hair and make sure you don’t touch your hair way too much.
  • Use a microfiber towel to dry your hair instead of regular towels. 
YoulerTex Ultra Plush Microfiber Hair Towel Wrap for Women, 2 Pack 10 inch X 26inch Purple, Ultra Absorbent Twist Hair Turban Drying Cap Hair Wrap, for Drying Curly, Long & Thick Hair (Gray)
  • SUIT ALL HAIRS & SIZES - 10" x 26" Extra Plush Microfiber Towel. Easy to...
  • SUPER ABSORBENT & Ultra Light Thin - Two layers of materials with different...
  • SAVE TIME - Our microfiber towels are made from a revolutionary material...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Your hair is prone to protein build-up so minimize hair products with protein of protein treatments. 
  • Go for pineapple updo when you sleep at night to protect your hair while sleeping.
  • Opt for a good wooden comb instead or a boar bristle brush or your regular plastic combs. The wooden combs will help distribute the excessive natural oils from your scalp to your dry manes which will prevent your scalp and hair from getting greasy fast and nourish your manes. You can also invest in a good detangling brush and a wide toothcomb to assist you better. 
Sale
MRD Hair Brush Set, Natural Bamboo Comb Paddle Detangling Hairbrush, Wide-tooth and tail comb No Bristle, suit for Women Men and Kids Thick/Thin/Curly/Dry Hair Gift kit
  • ECO-FRIENDLY The set comes with 1pcs standard brush, 1pcs mini brush, and...
  • FOR ALL HAIR TYPES: Suitable for women mens kids with long short thick thin...
  • DIFFERENT SIZES BRUSHES: Massage made by rounded ends stimulates blood flow...

Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sale
Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangling Brush - Detangler Brush for Natural, Curly, Straight, Wet and Dry Hair for Adults and Kids - Hair Brush for Little Girls, Toddlers, Teens - 7.5 x 3 inches, Purple
  • Unmatched Bristle Durability: The original detangling hair brush features...
  • Detangle Without Discomfort: Work in small sections to prevent breakage;...
  • Kid-Friendly Design: This tangle-free hair brush doesn’t dig into the...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Invest in a good flat iron for curly hair or a flat iron with teeth for better results on the days you want to go for sleek straight hair. Just make sure you use a good heat protectant beforehand. You can also opt for a good blowout.
Sale
Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System, Powerful Hair Dryer Brush & Multi-Styler with Auto-Wrap Curlers, Paddle Brush, Oval Brush, Concentrator Attachment, Stone
  • MULTI-STYLING TOOL: Rotate the powerful hair dryer and transform it into a...
  • CURL, VOLUMIZE, SMOOTH, & DRY: The versatile stylers attach to the styling...
  • NO HEAT DAMAGE: Giving you fast drying while maintaining low heat,...

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

No products found.

Over To You

Understanding your 3A hair’s unique characteristics is the initial stride towards maintaining its magnificent appearance and optimal condition. By leveraging suitable hair care products and adopting effective styling methods, you can enhance the inherent allure of your locks.

Hope you find this guide on how to take care of 3A hair useful. Let me know which hairstyles you picked for your hair type. In case you feel I missed out on any important points feel free to reach out via comments. Before you go don’t forget to check out:

Have a lovely day.

For FREE Hair Care Tips & Home Remedies Join Now!

* indicates required