Meaning ❉ Keratin alteration signifies the molecular shifts within the hair’s core protein, keratin, a process fundamental to its structural integrity and outward presentation. For textured hair, especially the distinct coils and delicate strands prevalent in Black and mixed heritage hair, grasping these precise molecular rearrangements becomes paramount for preserving its innate strength. This deep understanding provides the foundational insight for systematizing care practices, transforming routine steps into a predictable, almost automated, sequence of supportive actions. Applying this awareness practically involves discerning the nuanced impact of heat, chemical processes, or even daily manipulation on disulfide bonds and hydrophobic interactions. It guides the judicious selection of gentle emollients, the calibrated application of moisture, and the adoption of protective styles, ensuring each deliberate choice contributes to the fiber’s sustained health and inherent beauty, fostering a continuum of care that respects the hair’s unique architectural design.
