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Traditional Oils

Meaning ❉ Traditional Oils, drawn from botanical sources and passed down through lineages, represent a gentle, time-honored approach to Black and mixed-race hair care. These natural emollients, long valued for their unique lipid profiles, offer a nuanced understanding of textured hair’s specific needs, particularly its moisture retention and structural integrity. Within a systematized routine, the consistent inclusion of these oils functions as a predictable element, aiding in the creation of a protective barrier that minimizes moisture loss and reduces friction along the hair shaft. Applying these oils, whether as a pre-shampoo treatment, a scalp massage, or a sealing agent for styled hair, allows for direct implementation of knowledge, supporting scalp comfort and maintaining strand flexibility. This practice, shaped by generations of practical wisdom, quietly contributes to hair health, offering a consistent method for upholding the vitality and appearance of textured hair.

A close view showcases hands applying creamy hair product to tightly coiled textured hair. The black and white emphasizes contrast, displaying the product's texture against the spiral formations. It highlights natural hair care, self-care rituals for Black hair, and holistic practices rooted in ancestral heritage.

How did ancestors oil textured hair?

Ancestors oiled textured hair using natural plant-based ingredients like shea butter and castor oil to condition, protect, and maintain its unique structure, embodying a profound heritage.
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