Double Crown: Two hair whorls on the crown

ByDr. Celestine (Certified Trichologist)

What is Double Crown?

Double Crown is a natural hair growth pattern where two separate whorls or spirals form on the scalp instead of the usual single one. It means your hair grows from two distinct focal points, often creating a unique and sometimes challenging directional flow. Most people never notice this trait unless they cut their hair very short.

I see this most often in clients with very straight, thick hair types. The two crowns create a natural partition that can make styling difficult. Think of it like two small whirlpools right next to each other on your head, each pulling the hair in its own direction.

One surprising fact: This trait might be linked to left-handedness. Some studies suggest a correlation between atypical hair whorl patterns and hand dominance, though it’s not a guaranteed link.

Why Your Double Crown Fights the Comb

Your double crown creates two separate growth directions that often work against each other. The hair follicles are set at angles that push the hair in opposing circular paths.

This is why you get that stubborn section that never lies flat. I always tell my clients with this pattern to work with the growth, not against it. Forcing the hair to lay in one uniform direction often leads to frizz and breakage.

Think of your hair like a field of grass growing from two different centers. The blades naturally want to fall away from the center of each growth point. When two centers exist close together, they create a natural conflict zone where the hair wants to go in two different directions.

The Genetics Behind Your Double Crown

Your double crown is determined before birth, much like your hair pattern or eye color. It’s a genetic trait that you inherit, though it doesn’t follow a simple dominant/recessive pattern.

In my practice, I often see multiple family members with the same hair growth patterns. If you have a double crown, ask your parents or siblings if they have the same characteristic. You might be surprised to find it runs in the family.

The formation happens in utero during fetal development. The hair follicles align themselves based on complex embryonic growth patterns that we’re still trying to fully understand.

Styling Tricks for a Double Crown

The key to managing a double crown is using water and product to train the hair while it’s damp. Apply a strong hold product to the area and use a boar bristle brush to encourage the hair to lay in your desired direction.

I recommend avoiding very short haircuts like buzz cuts that accentuate the whorls. Longer hair provides enough weight to help manage the conflicting growth patterns. Layers can also help blend the area more seamlessly.

For clients who want very short hair, I often use texturizing techniques to disguise the double crown. This involves point cutting and notching to break up the strong circular pattern without creating awkward weight lines.

When Your Double Crown Signals Something Else

In rare cases, an unusual hair whorl pattern can indicate underlying conditions. A sudden change in your hair’s growth pattern warrants medical attention, as it could signal nutritional deficiencies or hormonal issues.

I always examine the scalp health around double crowns carefully. The unusual growth direction can sometimes lead to increased tangling and breakage in that specific area, which might require special conditioning attention.

Most double crowns are simply a natural variation, not a medical concern. But if you notice sudden changes in your hair growth patterns, it’s worth discussing with a dermatologist or trichologist.

From My Experience

In my clinic, I’ve developed a technique I call “directional mapping” for clients with double crowns. Before even picking up scissors, I spend time analyzing exactly how each whorl influences the surrounding hair.

About 60% of my clients with double crowns don’t even know they have them until I point it out. They just know they have “that one annoying section” that never behaves. Once we identify the growth pattern, we can choose cutting techniques that work with it rather than against it.

I find that people with double crowns often need to adjust their hair care routine for that specific area. The hair might be more prone to dryness or tangling where the two growth patterns meet, requiring extra conditioning or detangling attention.

The most successful approach is always to embrace the natural pattern rather than fight it. Some of the most interesting and dynamic hairstyles work with the double crown’s natural movement instead of trying to force it into submission.

Celestine Gitau is a Certified Trichologist (International Association of Trichologists – IAT), Trichology tutor, and experienced hair and scalp health specialist. She has extensive expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing hair loss across all hair types, with a focus on afro-textured hair. Over her career, she has been involved in more than 450 hair transplant procedures and hundreds of advanced treatments including PRP therapy, nutritional supplementation, and stem cell applications. As a dedicated educator and blogger, she has authored numerous in-depth articles to raise awareness on hair and scalp health. Her work combines clinical experience, ongoing research, and a passion for patient education.
Note: The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.