Do You Have Irish Hair? Here’s How To Tell

Not sure whether you have straight, wavy or curly hair? (Or some combination of the three?) The answer might lie in your hair pattern. This dilemma is the focus of TikTok’s latest beauty obsession, which covers all things Irish hair.

What Is Irish Hair?

Irish hair is a new term coined on TikTok that refers to a hair pattern where the top layers of hair are straight and the bottom layers are wavy or curly. And while it’s associated online with the Irish, you don’t necessarily need to be from there to have it.

@ourshadowselves Irish hair is a thing #irishhair #hairhelp #howtostylehair #wavyhair ♬ Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter

‘We commonly see this hair pattern in the salon and not just with clients of Irish heritage,’ confirms Suzie McGill, International Artistic Director for Rainbow Room International, in a conversation with Fresha. ‘A lot of the time, this mix-match of hair textures can simply be due to damaged hair. Perhaps a person doesn’t have a curl routine, or even realise they have curly hair and, therefore, how they should be caring for it. This texture combination often results from differences in hair follicle shape and orientation on the scalp. Environmental factors may play a role too.’

The trend has been making waves on TikTok, where creators have taken to showcasing how they style their multi-textured hair. (And share in the experience of being ‘another victim’ of Irish hair.)

How To Tell If You Have It

Curious? There’s a quick way to find out if you have the luck of the Irish. ‘If in doubt, look for straight or wavy hair on top with curlier textures underneath,’ recommends Suzie. ‘If there’s a distinct change in curl pattern, then it’s likely to be Irish hair. Alternatively, try a curly hair wash routine, using products specifically for curly hair before using a diffuser or the scrunch method to dry and see if this brings out a uniform curl pattern across your hair.’

Why Is It Called Irish Hair?

That will be the work of TikTok. A number of people on the app claim that this hair type has Celtic origins, being shaped by the environment to help protect strands against wind and mist.

@martine_lavelle My life has changed since discovering irish hair is an actual thing #irishhair #fyp #fypage #hair ♬ original sound – ❦

What To Do With Irish Hair At The Salon

If you think you already have Irish hair, ask your stylist for layers that play to the strength of both textures. ‘I’d suggest long layers to blend the textures, avoiding over-thinning the curly sections,’ suggests Suzie. You can also bring in some reference images to show your stylist what kind of hairstyles you like.

How To Wash Irish Hair

Since you’re working with more than one texture, you’ll want to use a multi-targeting shampoo. (Aka, one that works for both straight and wavy or curly hair textures.) You can get some ideas with our roundup of the best luxury shampoos here.

How To Style Irish Hair

‘By using techniques that enhance both straight and curly parts, you can give a seamless blend and give the overall appearance of relaxed, wavy hair,’ says Suzie. ‘Alternatively, if you’re after a more polished finish, straightening all the hair can achieve a sleek, uniform look.’

Struggling with frizz? Suzie has some ideas: ‘I’d recommend lightweight leave-in conditioners and curl creams for the curly sections, with smoothing serums for the straighter top layers. Anti-frizz products are key! Finding the right products that work for your hair is crucial. A lot of the time, trial and error is the best method of finding the right products.’

@laurenlovelessss tutorial for styling irish curls on a non-hairwash day #wavyhair #hairtok #irishcurls #fyp ♬ original sound – ╰( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°☆*:・ﾟ

Can Colour Affect The Look?

If you’re toying with the idea of colour or highlights, plan carefully. ‘Highlights run the risk of accentuating the different textures, especially if the highlights are placed randomly throughout the hair,’ warns Suzie. ‘If in doubt, opt for an overall colour or soft balayage, which might help soften the contrast. This approach can give the illusion of more cohesive hair texture.’

How To Look After Multiple Hair Textures At Once

‘Embrace both textures,’ recommends Suzie. ‘Use appropriate products for each section and avoid over-washing to maintain natural oils. Embrace your unique, Irish hair. It’s good to be different.’

Featured image: Darina Belonogova, Pexels