I know I’m not alone in saying that, for years, I truly just did not understand my hair. I come from a family of tight, 3a curly haired individuals, so when my hair would always dry kind of wavy, kind of not, I was stumped. Enter “Irish curls”—the first TikTok trend that I actually saw my nondescript wave pattern in.
Irish curls or Irish hair has been trending on TikTok as of late, showing users that their confusing hair type might be actually be this Gaelic-inspired curl pattern. But, while many were excited to learn about this “new” hair style, others debated whether or not Irish hair is just another word for wavy, 2b curls. To answer all your Irish curl questions, we tapped a curl expert known for her work with Irish curls. Ahead, everything you’ve been wondering about Irish curls.
What is Irish hair? Why did it gain that title?
Libby Brenner, curl specialist and educator in Ohio, explains that at its core, “Irish hair is usually wavy underneath but has a top layer that is much straighter with pieces that have hardly any bend, resulting in two completely different curl patterns. Most people with Irish hair have high-density hair with coarse strands, which can feel very heavy. This particular texture combination is typically seen in those with Irish heritage, so that is how it got its name Irish hair or Irish waves on social media.”
How is Irish hair different from wavy or curly hair?
When Irish hair and Irish curls first began to gain traction on TikTok, many were thrilled (myself included), finding comfort in knowing their unique hair type was not singular. Many others, though, were confused as to how Irish curls differ from the traditional 1-4 curl pattern system we’ve grown to know. According to Brenner, though, there is a difference. “The main difference between wavy/curly hair and Irish Hair is the distinct straighter pieces on top. The curl patterns are so vastly different, many people who have it don’t know whether they should wear their hair natural or flat iron it.”
What are the best products for Irish hair?
As someone with Irish hair, finding products that help define your curly sections without weighing down the straighter ones is no easy feat. Luckily, if you’re struggling to understand how to style your Irish hair, Brenner has you covered. “My favorite products to use on Irish Hair are a combination of gels,” she says, “I like to start by raking Innersense I Create Volume ($28) in sections from roots to ends. After that is applied, I have my client flip forward and gently scrunch in Innersense I Create Hold ($28). I Create Volume gives lightweight hold and definition to the waves while I Create Hold provides shine and adds longevity. If clients are looking for a bit more texture, I recommend spritzing Innersense I Create Finish ($28) or I Create Waves ($26) all over when the waves are dry.”
