Meaning ❉ Data Bias, in the realm of textured hair, refers to the subtle inclinations within collected information or the frameworks of understanding that inadvertently privilege certain hair patterns or experiences over others. This often stems from historical research concentrating on straight hair, leading to gaps in foundational knowledge concerning the unique needs of coils, kinks, and waves. For those seeking a deeper understanding of their hair’s growth, this imbalance can skew the perceived norms of health or vitality. When we consider hair care systematization, such as developing streamlined routines or product formulations, biased data might result in systems less effective for Black and mixed hair types, as they weren’t adequately represented in the initial datasets. Consequently, the practical application of widely available hair care advice or products may not yield desired outcomes, leading to frustration rather than the joyous experience of one’s natural hair. It’s a quiet call to seek out and build knowledge that truly mirrors the diverse beauty of our hair heritage.
