Phenotypic Adaptation
Meaning ❉ Phenotypic Adaptation is hair's non-genetic ability to alter its characteristics in response to environment, deeply connected to textured hair heritage and ancestral care.
Meaning ❉ Hair plasticity denotes the gentle responsiveness of individual hair fibers to temporary shifts in environment, such as hydration or careful shaping, enabling them to hold a new configuration. For the unique architecture of textured hair, particularly Black and mixed-race hair, this characteristic is foundational for predictable care and styling. It clarifies the responsiveness of each curl and coil to intentional moisture application and soft handling, providing a calm framework for systematizing routines that feel intuitive and effective. This insight allows for the practical application of methods, like precise sectioning or tension-setting, ensuring desired styles settle gracefully and hair remains protected, honoring the innate strength of our ancestral hair.