Coily

Coily describes hair with very tight curls or spiral-shaped strands. In common hair-type classifications used in ethnic hair care, coily hair is often placed in the 4A–4C range of the Afro-textured spectrum, though curl patterns vary among individuals and across different parts of the scalp.

Coily hair typically has a compact curl pattern, significant shrinkage, and a higher tendency toward dryness because the natural oil produced by the scalp has difficulty traveling down the tightly wound strands. These characteristics influence cleansing, conditioning, and styling practices, and porosity and strand diameter vary widely within coily textures.

Effective care emphasizes moisture retention, gentle handling, and protective styling. Common practices include regular but not excessive washing, using sulfate-free shampoos or co-washing, applying leave-in conditioners and moisturizing creams, sealing with natural oils, and detangling gently with a wide-tooth comb or fingers. Many wearers favor wash-and-go, twist-outs, braids, or other protective styles to reduce breakage. Heat should be used sparingly.

Coily hair has significant cultural associations, particularly within Black communities, and has been central to natural hair movements that advocate embracing natural textures and reducing chemical or heat damage. The term is primarily descriptive and not a medical diagnosis.