Pseudoscientific Racism

Meaning

Pseudoscientific Racism, within the gentle world of textured hair understanding, refers to the historical misapplication of flawed biological assertions, often disguised as objective science, to assert the supposed inferiority of Black and mixed-race hair types. These assertions historically positioned coily, kinky, and wavy strands as inherently less manageable or aesthetically undesirable, profoundly influencing societal perceptions of natural hair growth patterns. Such baseless declarations critically skewed the development of hair care systematization, leading to commercial products and routine recommendations that frequently disregarded the unique needs of diverse hair textures, instead promoting practices that were ultimately counterproductive to hair health and vitality. Acknowledging this legacy is essential for the practical application of knowledge, allowing individuals to thoughtfully disentangle themselves from outdated notions, acquiring understanding grounded in genuine trichology and a respectful appreciation for their own hair’s inherent structure and beauty.