Meaning ❉ ‘Windrush Generation Hair’ identifies the distinct hair practices, styles, and care systems established in Britain by Caribbean individuals arriving from 1948 to 1971. This term underscores the resourceful adaptation and communal knowledge applied to textured hair within a new climate, significantly shaping subsequent generations’ approaches. Practical methods were developed for maintaining hair vitality and appearance, often with cleverness due to limited access to specialized products. These routines, stemming from heritage and necessity, laid down systematic principles for textured hair care, demonstrating how practical understanding informed the management of varied curl patterns and densities. Their contributions established the basis of Black and mixed-race hair care in the UK, showcasing enduring resilience and the consistent application of inherited techniques. The careful thermal straightening, the precise braiding methods, and the communal sharing of conditioning recipes represent a valuable legacy. This historical period fundamentally influenced the practical application of hair care, setting precedents for structured routines and community-driven learning about textured hair.
