Meaning ❉ The ‘Shedding Phase’ refers to the natural, finite stage of the hair growth cycle where older hair strands gracefully release from the scalp, making way for new growth. For individuals with textured hair, particularly those with coils and curls common in Black and mixed heritage hair, these naturally detached strands often remain held within the hair’s unique structure rather than falling freely.
This understanding is a fundamental insight for comprehending textured hair growth, allowing for accurate assessment of hair health beyond perceived length retention. It guides the systematization of hair care, encouraging gentle, consistent detangling practices that account for the hair’s natural cycle, thereby preventing the build-up of shed hair that could lead to tangles.
Applied practically, this knowledge informs deliberate detangling sessions, often during conditioning, where accumulated shed hair is carefully released. Such intentional handling supports a clear picture of the hair’s vitality and aids in maintaining its inherent pattern. This careful attention is a quiet wisdom for preserving the hair’s unique characteristics.
