Meaning ❉ Melanin degradation gently refers to the gradual breakdown of the natural pigments within our hair fibers, those beautiful eumelanin and pheomelanin compounds that bestow the rich, diverse hues across the spectrum of textured hair. This natural process, often accelerated by environmental factors like persistent sun exposure or certain chemical treatments, influences the very structure and perceived vibrancy of coils and curls. Understanding this delicate shift becomes a guiding principle for systematizing textured hair care, allowing for routine adjustments that prioritize gentle handling and protective measures. Thoughtful application of knowledge here means selecting products that offer UV protection, minimizing harsh heat styling, and adopting practices that preserve the integrity of each strand. For Black and mixed-race hair, where melanin content is typically abundant, acknowledging degradation is not about alarm, but about informed stewardship, ensuring our heritage strands maintain their strength and luminous character through mindful routines.
