Meaning ❉ Dombe Coiffure, an ancestral styling practice of the Himba, involves coating textured hair, typically dreadlocks, with an otjize blend of butterfat, ochre, and aromatic resins. This practice offers significant understanding into traditional methods of hair preservation and scalp wellness, illustrating how indigenous knowledge systems have long understood the protective needs of coiled and curly strands. It demonstrates an early recognition of hair’s vulnerability to environmental factors and the value of consistent external nourishment. The methodical application of otjize functions as an ancient systematization of hair care, akin to a routine where specific compounds are regularly layered to maintain hair integrity and appearance. This consistent effort highlights the timeless principle of sustained care for hair health, emphasizing regularity over sporadic intervention. For those with Black and mixed-race hair, this historical method provides a tangible reference for implementing protective strategies, underscoring the efficacy of natural emollients and pigments in creating a protective barrier against dryness and breakage. It encourages a thoughtful approach to product application, drawing parallels between traditional wisdom and contemporary textured hair care practices, underscoring the deep cultural connection between hair and identity.
