Meaning ❉ Colonial oppression, within the sphere of textured hair, points to the enduring societal influences stemming from historical periods of dominance, which significantly shaped perceptions and practices concerning Black and mixed-race hair. These influences often skewed the inherent beauty and distinct needs of curls, coils, and waves, positioning European beauty standards as the singular, aspirational ideal. Understanding this historical context is key to grasping how past policies and social pressures continue to impact contemporary textured hair understanding, frequently creating gaps in knowledge about natural hair growth patterns and the best care approaches. Furthermore, it helps explain the systemic lack of specialized products and methodical routines tailored for these hair types, rendering the practical application of effective care more complex. Recognizing these lingering effects enables us to consciously re-establish autonomous hair care principles, grounded in a true valuing of ancestral hair wisdom and current scientific insight, moving towards truly supportive and personalized routines for every strand.
