# Can Media Influence Lead to Internalizing Beauty Standards That Dismiss Textured Hair? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-03
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

![A striking black and white composition celebrates heritage, showcasing elongated spiral pattern achieved via threading, a testament to ancestral hair traditions, emphasizing holistic hair care, self-expression, and intricate styling within narratives of Black hair traditions and mixed-race hair narratives.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-woman-with-low-porosity-spirals-in-madras-head-wrap.jpg)

![This evocative monochromatic image captures textured hair artfully styled, a symbol of boldness and self-expression. It highlights the blend of heritage, beauty innovation, and personal strength, inviting us to contemplate hair’s role in shaping identity narratives and cultural narratives](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-an-asian-woman-with-textured-hair-and-undercut.jpg)

## Roots

Across generations, whispers of beauty have shaped perceptions, often echoing through media forms. For those with hair that coils, springs, and defies simple lines, the story is often one of an outward gaze meeting an inner world, sometimes with jarring effect. This story, however, reaches back far beyond the flickering screens of today, into the very ancient pulse of [textured hair heritage](/area/textured-hair-heritage/).

It is a lineage etched in every curve and twist of a strand, a testament to resilience and profound meaning, deeply rooted in the soil of ancestral lands. To truly grasp how external influences can diminish the spirit of natural hair, we must first return to the very source, understanding the elemental biology and the centuries of wisdom that recognized hair not merely as adornment, but as a living archive.

The physical reality of textured hair, from the tightest coils to the most expansive waves, finds its distinct characteristics in the follicular architecture and the unique growth patterns. Unlike hair types with a circular cross-section, [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) typically emerges from an elliptical or even flat follicle. This shape causes the keratinocytes, the cells that form the hair shaft, to arrange themselves in a way that encourages coiling. The more pronounced the ellipse, the tighter the curl.

This inherent structure, deeply woven into the genetic code, grants textured hair its remarkable volume and its characteristic ability to shrink, often appearing shorter than its true length. The very nature of this growth pattern also presents unique challenges; the bends and turns along the hair shaft make it more susceptible to dryness and mechanical damage, as the natural oils produced by the scalp find it more difficult to travel down the spiraling strand.

> Textured hair, with its unique follicular structure, carries a profound genetic and cultural legacy.

![This evocative portrait immortalizes resilience, revealing an elder](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elders-textured-legacy-natural-coils-high-porosity-hair-aesthetics.jpg)

## How Does Ancestral Science Interpret Hair Physiology?

Long before modern microscopy, [ancient African](/area/ancient-african/) societies possessed an intricate understanding of hair’s physical and spiritual dimensions. They observed, through generations of direct interaction and meticulous care, the varied responses of different hair textures to environment, diet, and touch. Hair was not viewed in isolation; it was a continuum of the body, a conduit for spiritual energy, and a visual marker of identity. In many pre-colonial communities, the crown of the head was considered the closest point to the divine, making hair a sacred element that connected individuals to their ancestors and the spiritual world.

For instance, among the Yoruba people of Nigeria, hair was regarded as the most elevated part of the body, and elaborate braided styles were believed to send messages to the gods. This reverence translated into sophisticated care practices that acknowledged the hair’s fragility and its need for careful attention.

Traditional classification systems, unlike modern numerical scales, often centered on the hair’s capacity for styling, its responsiveness to natural elements, and its symbolic messages. Rather than categorizing by curl pattern numbers, the distinctions were drawn from visual cues and cultural meanings. A particular braid pattern, for example, could signify a woman’s marital status, her age, or her social standing within the community. These were not rigid categorizations designed for commerce, but living descriptors that reflected the hair’s role in communal life. 

- **Yoruba Irun Kiko** ❉ A threading style used in Nigeria, dating back to the 15th century, where hair was carefully wrapped with thread, demonstrating an early understanding of protective manipulation and elongation.

- **Himba Ochre Styles** ❉ The Himba tribe in Namibia wore dreadlocked styles coated with a red ochre paste, symbolizing connection to the earth and ancestors, and offering protection from the elements.

- **Maasai Warrior Braids** ❉ Intricate braided hair dyed with red clay by Maasai warriors in Kenya, symbolizing courage and social status, demonstrating hair as a visual language of societal roles.

![The portrait offers a study in contrast and form light dances on skin and hair. Her protective braids frame a quiet grace](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-black-woman-with-protective-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

## What Messages Did Ancient Hair Convey?

In diverse African civilizations, hair was a vibrant form of communication, a visual lexicon understood by all. Before arbitrary lines delineated nations, the continent was a mosaic of kingdoms and clans, each with unique customs. Within these societal structures, hair became a profound expression of identity, status, and belonging. Hairstyles could denote a person’s geographic origin, marital status, age, or even their specific religious or ethnic affiliation.

For example, the Fulani people of West Africa are recognized for their distinctive thin, woven braids adorned with cowrie shells and beads, which often carried meanings related to heritage and marital status. This rich system of visual cues allowed communities to communicate complex information without spoken words. The very act of styling hair was often a communal activity, particularly among women, serving as a time for sharing stories, wisdom, and strengthening social bonds.

The systematic devaluation of this deeply cherished [hair heritage](/area/hair-heritage/) began with the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans were often subjected to the dehumanizing act of having their heads shaved, an attempt to strip them of their [cultural identity](/area/cultural-identity/) and sever their ties to their ancestral communities. Removed from their homelands, without access to traditional tools, ingredients, or the time for elaborate styling rituals, their hair often became matted and damaged, leading to the use of head coverings.

This period marked a profound shift, initiating a long legacy of discrimination where textured hair was denigrated and labelled with derogatory terms like “nappy” or “kinky”. These negative perceptions were not organic; they were imposed, paving the way for a historical pattern where [European beauty standards](/area/european-beauty-standards/) gained dominance, influencing perceptions of textured hair for centuries to come.

![The portrait captures a study in contrasts, celebrating the beauty of structured lines and the inherent texture of tightly coiled hair. It evokes a sense of timeless elegance while showcasing the contemporary styling possibilities within Black hair narratives, highlighting identity and ancestral heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-elegant-black-woman-with-artistically-styled-textured.jpg)

![An intricate monochrome array of neem leaves embodies nature](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/botanical-harmony-monochrome-leaves-arrayed-naturally-for-textured-hair-infusion.jpg)

## Ritual

The memory of touch, of hands moving with purpose through strands, defines the tender thread of hair ritual. This practice, passed down through the ages, was not merely about outward presentation; it was a profound act of kinship, community, and personal wellbeing. In pre-colonial Africa, hairstyling sessions served as vital social gatherings, moments where wisdom was exchanged, bonds strengthened, and heritage stories preserved. The creation of cornrows, twists, and various intricate patterns often took hours, allowing for conversation, learning, and the quiet transmission of cultural knowledge from elders to younger generations.

These styles, frequently called [protective styles](/area/protective-styles/) , were designed to shield the hair from environmental rigors and minimize manipulation, promoting length retention and overall strand health. Their forms were often symbolic, with patterns sometimes conveying coded messages or even serving as maps during times of enslavement.

![This portrait evokes Old Hollywood splendor through the lens of contemporary beauty standards. The strategic shaping of her hair emphasizes ancestral heritage and offers a sophisticated take on natural expressive styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-exquisite-finger-wave-hairstyle.jpg)

## What Ancestral Styling Methods Were Practiced?

The ancestral repertoire of styling techniques was rich and diverse, a testament to human ingenuity and deep observation of hair’s natural inclinations. Beyond simple braiding, methods like threading, twisting, and knotting were common. [African hair](/area/african-hair/) threading , known as “Irun Kiko” among the Yoruba, is an ancient practice that involved wrapping hair with thread, creating elongated and protective styles that safeguarded the hair from damage. This was an early form of protective manipulation, anticipating modern concepts of low-tension styling.

Another enduring style, the Bantu knot , originating with the Zulu people of Southern Africa, involves coiling sections of hair upon themselves to form small, coiled buns, a technique that provides protection and sets hair with a distinct curl pattern. These methods underscore a long-standing understanding of how to manage and adorn textured hair in ways that honored its inherent structure.

The arrival of the [transatlantic slave trade](/area/transatlantic-slave-trade/) profoundly disrupted these sacred rituals. Enslaved Africans were systematically stripped of their tools, their traditional ingredients, and the very time needed for these elaborate, communal styling practices. This deliberate cultural violence aimed to dismantle their identity. As a consequence, many were forced to hide their hair under headwraps, which, despite their oppressive origins, also became symbols of dignity and resistance. 

> Ancestral hair practices embodied community, protection, and a deep understanding of textured hair’s natural properties.

![The monochrome palette accentuates the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-hair-in-headwrap.jpg)

## How Did Media Alter Hair Perceptions?

Following emancipation, the struggle for acceptance within a dominant society led many Black individuals to adopt hair practices that aligned with Eurocentric beauty ideals. This era saw the rise of hair straightening as a means to gain social acceptance and economic opportunity. The burgeoning Black beauty industry, initially driven by innovators like Madam C.J.

Walker and Annie Malone , offered products and tools like the hot comb, which allowed for temporary straightening. While these women built significant wealth and provided solutions for Black women seeking to conform, their innovations also, sometimes inadvertently, reinforced the notion that straight hair was the standard for professionalism and beauty.

Media, in its nascent forms ❉ print advertisements and early visual culture ❉ played a crucial role in disseminating and reinforcing these narrow beauty standards. Advertisements from the early to mid-20th century frequently promoted skin lighteners and hair straighteners, often from white-owned companies with little true understanding of Black hair, signaling that conformity was a path to social mobility. These depictions, though not always overt, subtly communicated that textured hair, in its natural state, was less desirable, messy, or unprofessional. 

Consider the case of the chemical relaxer , a product that gained immense popularity in the mid-20th century. Advertisements for these lye-based or no-lye formulas often presented them as a “solution” to “unmanageable” or “difficult” hair, explicitly or implicitly equating straight, silky hair with beauty and ease. This framing created a powerful internal narrative for many: that their natural texture was a problem needing to be fixed.

The imagery used in these advertisements featured models with straightened hair, visually reinforcing the desired aesthetic and subtly dismissing the inherent beauty of coils and kinks. This historical pattern shows how media representations, even in their earliest forms, shaped a collective consciousness around hair, often leading individuals to internalize standards that were far removed from their ancestral hair heritage.

![This portrait encapsulates the fusion of modern elegance and ancestral heritage, highlighting the sculptural artistry possible with braided textured hair. The strong contrast amplifies the nuanced beauty of Black hair traditions, inviting a contemplation on identity, wellness, and expressive styling rooted in cultural narratives](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-featuring-braided-textured-hair-styling.jpg)

![This black and white photograph captures the essence of natural afro textured hair, celebrating its springy coil formation and intricate beauty. Emphasizing its coil texture, the portrait embodies strength and confidence, promoting positive self-image and highlighting the importance of ancestral heritage and expressive styling within diverse hair narratives](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-in-black-and-white.jpg)

## Relay

The current dialogue around textured hair stands as a testament to its unbound helix , a living, evolving narrative that stretches from ancient practices to contemporary reclamation. The deeply rooted biases against textured hair, seeded through centuries of imposed standards and reinforced by media depictions, continue to influence perceptions and experiences today. Yet, against this backdrop, powerful movements have emerged, asserting the inherent beauty and cultural richness of coils, kinks, and waves. 

![This monochrome portrait highlights the beauty of textured hair, its helical formation rendered in striking detail. The woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-elaborate-textured-afro-hairstyle-and-shawl.jpg)

## How Does Media Influence Hair Discrimination?

The weight of historical narratives and persistent media portrayals of beauty has resulted in quantifiable challenges for individuals with textured hair. A significant example is found in the professional sphere. According to a 2020 article published in the Social Psychological and Personality Science journal, Black women with natural hairstyles like tight curls, box braids, or a natural afro were less likely to be recommended for job interviews compared to candidates with straightened hair or white women with curly or straight hair. This stark reality reveals how internalized beauty standards, often propagated through media, translate into real-world discrimination, limiting opportunities based solely on hair texture. 

This phenomenon, termed “hairism,” favors hair types and textures that align with European beauty standards ❉ typically long, straight, and silky. Media, both traditional and digital, has historically contributed to this preference by showcasing a disproportionate number of models and public figures with straightened hair, presenting it as the default or ideal. Even as the [natural hair movement](/area/natural-hair-movement/) gains momentum, the sheer volume of content depicting Eurocentric ideals can subtly undermine self-acceptance for those with textured hair. 

> Media representations have significantly influenced the perception and acceptance of textured hair, often leading to discrimination.

![Camellia seed oil, a legacy for textured hair wellness, embodies ancestral care and moisture. Its monochrome elegance connects historical beauty rituals to today](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/camellia-seed-oil-black-and-white-still-life-textured-hair.jpg)

## What Protections Exist for Natural Hair?

In response to this pervasive discrimination, legislative efforts have taken root, notably the [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/). Standing for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” this legislation aims to prohibit discrimination based on race-based hairstyles by extending legal protection to hair texture and styles such as braids, locs, twists, and Afros in workplaces and public schools. California led the way in 2019, becoming the first state to outlaw such discrimination, a critical step towards dismantling a long-standing bias.

While the CROWN Act has passed in many states, its federal passage remains a goal, underscoring the ongoing struggle for universal acceptance of natural hair. This act is not merely about legal protection; it is a profound affirmation of Black culture and identity , recognizing the intrinsic cultural importance of [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) and uplifting individuals’ choices regarding their hair.

The [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) movement, a contemporary cultural renaissance, has been a powerful counter-narrative to these dismissive standards. Gaining significant momentum in the 2000s, especially with the rise of social media, it has provided platforms for individuals to share their hair journeys, exchange styling tips, and celebrate their authentic textures. This digital communal space has facilitated the revival of ancient African hair care practices that were obscured during slavery, with stylists and enthusiasts sharing knowledge globally. The visibility of diverse textured hair in media, fueled by this movement, challenges the narrow definitions of beauty and promotes inclusivity. 

Holistic hair care, deeply informed by ancestral wisdom, represents another vital aspect of this contemporary reclamation. It moves beyond superficial styling to address hair health as an aspect of overall wellbeing, drawing from centuries of knowledge about natural ingredients. 

- **Shea Butter** ❉ A traditional West African ingredient, valued for its moisturizing and softening properties, historically used to nourish hair and scalp.

- **Chebe Powder** ❉ Sourced from Chad, this powder, made from the seeds of the Chebe plant, has been traditionally used by the Bassara/Baggara Arab tribe for hair length retention and strength.

- **Aloe Vera** ❉ Used across various African traditions for its soothing and conditioning abilities, helping to maintain scalp health and hair moisture.
Nighttime rituals, particularly the use of head coverings like bonnets and scarves, also have deep historical resonance. While headwraps were imposed during slavery as a means of control and to hide hair, they also transformed into symbols of dignity and cultural preservation. Today, bonnets and silk scarves serve a similar protective function, safeguarding delicate strands from friction and moisture loss during sleep, thereby promoting hair health and retaining styles. This continuity of practice, even with altered motivations, links modern care routines directly back to the ingenuity and resilience of past generations. 

![The artful chiaroscuro accentuates the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sophisticated-black-woman-short-natural-hair-portrait-studio-black-and-white.jpg)

![The botanical abstract offers a visual poem celebrating ancestral connections, hair texture, and the rich heritage woven into the care of textured hair. These floral structures mirror the strength and beauty inherent in wellness and traditions, expressing both history and resilience](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-floral-forms-a-study-in-light-texture-and-ancestral-heritage.jpg)

## Reflection

The path trod by textured hair, from its sacred ancestral roots to its present-day reassertion, is a profound narrative of resilience and unwavering spirit. Each curl, coil, and wave carries the echoes of history, of traditions both lost and vigorously reclaimed. The external pressures, particularly those wielded through the lens of media, have certainly cast long shadows, attempting to dim the innate brilliance of natural textures.

Yet, in the face of these challenges, textured hair has consistently affirmed its place not merely as a biological attribute, but as a vibrant emblem of identity, community, and heritage. The ongoing commitment to understanding its unique needs, celebrating its diverse forms, and upholding its inherent dignity ensures that the story of textured hair will continue to unfurl, a timeless testament to beauty unbound by narrow definitions.

![The image evokes a serene yet intense presence, showcasing rich cultural heritage through traditional braided styling, emphasizing cowrie shells and white cosmetic markings on the textured Afro hair. The child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-young-person-with-braided-hair-adorned-with-cowrie-shells.jpg)

![This portrait captures the beauty in simplicity, featuring short, undulating textured hair formations and radiant skin. It exemplifies understated elegance while reflecting broader narratives of self-expression through hair, ancestral heritage, and commitment to individualized, holistic approaches within Black hair traditions](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-short-textured-hair-undulation-and-radiant-skin-tone.jpg)

## References

- African American Museum of Iowa. (n.d.). History of Hair.

- Afriklens. (2024). African Hairstyles: Cultural Significance and Legacy.

- Banks, Ingrid. (2000). Hair Matters: Beauty, Power, and Black Women’s Consciousness. New York University Press.

- Collins, Patricia Hill. (2002). Black Feminist Thought: Knowledge, Consciousness, and the Politics of Empowerment. Routledge.

- Kodd Magazine. (n.d.). African Hair Tells a Story and Inspires the Future.

- Leidenanthropologyblog. (2017). Hairstyle Politics: Decolonizing Beauty Standards.

- NAACP. (n.d.). The Crown Act ❉ Creating a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair.

- Nuevo Noir. (2024). The History of Afro Hair.

- OkayAfrica. (n.d.). Reclaiming Tradition: How Hair Beads Connect Us to Our History.

- Omotoso, Sharon Adetutu. (2018). Gender and Hair Politics: An African Philosophical Analysis. Journal of Pan African Studies.

- Refinery29. (2021). The Evolution of the Natural Hair Movement.

- Sartorial Magazine. (2025). Braids, Locs, and Beyond: The Beauty and History of Protective Styles.

- The Gale Review. (2021). African Hairstyles: The “Dreaded” Colonial Legacy.

- Umthi. (2023). The Cultural Significance and Representation of Afro-Textured Hair.

- Voyant Beauty. (n.d.). What is the CROWN Act? Promoting Hair Equality and Inclusivity.

## Glossary

### [Black Hair](https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory.

### [Mende Beauty Standards](https://roothea.co/area/mende-beauty-standards/)

Meaning ❉ Mende Beauty Standards describe the historical aesthetic ideals of the Mende people of Sierra Leone, particularly regarding hair's form and upkeep.

### [Caribbean Beauty Standards](https://roothea.co/area/caribbean-beauty-standards/)

Meaning ❉ Caribbean Beauty Standards, within the realm of textured hair understanding, refers to the collective aesthetic preferences and care principles rooted in the diverse cultural heritage of the Caribbean islands.

### [Historical Beauty Standards](https://roothea.co/area/historical-beauty-standards/)

Meaning ❉ Historical beauty standards denote the prevailing aesthetic ideals for hair appearance across various periods, which frequently positioned textures inherent to Black and mixed-race hair outside the dominant aesthetic, leading to practices that often compromised its natural vitality.

### [Beauty Standards Evolution](https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards-evolution/)

Meaning ❉ The concept of Beauty Standards Evolution, within the context of textured hair, marks a gentle yet powerful shift from historically narrow aesthetic ideals toward an authentic appreciation for the diverse forms of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [Social Media Influence](https://roothea.co/area/social-media-influence/)

Meaning ❉ Social Media Influence, within the sphere of textured hair understanding, refers to the widespread impact digital platforms hold over how individuals acquire knowledge, shape routines, and apply care practices for their unique coils and kinks.

### [Digital Media Definition](https://roothea.co/area/digital-media-definition/)

Meaning ❉ Digital media, within the gentle sphere of textured hair understanding, denotes the comprehensive digital ecosystem facilitating the growth of knowledge concerning hair biology, curl typology, and scalp vitality.

### [Social Media Reclamation](https://roothea.co/area/social-media-reclamation/)

Meaning ❉ Social Media Reclamation, within the textured hair domain, signifies a mindful redirection of one's digital engagement and content consumption.

### [Protective Styles](https://roothea.co/area/protective-styles/)

Meaning ❉ Protective Styles denote a thoughtful strategy in textured hair care, meticulously crafted to shield the hair's more vulnerable lengths from routine manipulation and environmental exposure.

### [Afro-Latin Beauty Standards](https://roothea.co/area/afro-latin-beauty-standards/)

Meaning ❉ Afro-Latin Beauty Standards delineate the aesthetic ideals within communities of African and Latin American heritage, particularly concerning hair's appearance and its care practices.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Has Textured Hair Heritage Shaped Current Beauty Practices?](https://roothea.co/question/how-has-textured-hair-heritage-shaped-current-beauty-practices/)
![Hands weave intricate patterns into the child](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/protective-styling-daughters-hair-textured-hair-care-and-connection-black.jpg)

### [How Did Beauty Standards Influence the Development of Textured Hair Products?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-beauty-standards-influence-the-development-of-textured-hair-products/)
![The evocative monochrome portrait emphasizes the model](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-black-woman-with-short-natural-textured-hair-style.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Imposed Beauty Standards Impact Textured Hair Acceptance?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-imposed-beauty-standards-impact-textured-hair-acceptance/)
![This dramatic portrait celebrates the elegance and resilience embodied by the afro, highlighting its geometric form. The stark contrast between light and shadow accentuates the beauty of her natural hair, serving as a statement of cultural pride and a powerful expression of ancestral heritage.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-natural-afro-textured-hair-form.jpg)

### [How Does Hair Heritage Influence Modern Beauty?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-hair-heritage-influence-modern-beauty/)
![This captivating portrait celebrates the inherent beauty and artistry of textured hair, emphasizing the power of self-expression through contemporary Black hair traditions. The image highlights ancestral heritage, showcasing the fusion of modern styling with timeless elegance, affirming identity and pride.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-a-woman-with-textured-hairstyle.jpg)

### [Mende Beauty Standards](https://roothea.co/term/mende-beauty-standards/)
![The portrait evokes heritage, wellness, and the profound relationship between Black womanhood and textured hair care. The composition resonates with introspective thoughts on hair identity, celebrating the beauty of natural formations while embracing holistic approaches and ancestral roots in maintaining healthy hair.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-woman-water-immersion-introspection-reflections-on-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

### [Can Traditional Botanical Knowledge Lead to New Hair Product Formulations?](https://roothea.co/question/can-traditional-botanical-knowledge-lead-to-new-hair-product-formulations/)
![The detailed honeycomb structure, symbolic of intricate formulations, highlights nature](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-honeycomb-structure-reflecting-textured-hair-care-ingredient.jpg)

### [What Shared Heritage Connects Egyptian Hair Care to Black Beauty Traditions?](https://roothea.co/question/what-shared-heritage-connects-egyptian-hair-care-to-black-beauty-traditions/)
![This portrait invites reflection on identity, beauty and innovation within Black hair traditions, capturing the sculptural elegance of textured hair. The artistic styling and monochrome presentation elevate the image, blending heritage, wellness and expressive individuality, celebrating Black culture.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-black-woman-with-sculptural-textured-hair-styling.jpg)

### [In What Ways Do Historical Beauty Standards Impact Contemporary Textured Hair Choices?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-do-historical-beauty-standards-impact-contemporary-textured-hair-choices/)
![The portrait captures a powerful statement of identity and self-expression through a contemporary coily hairstyle, merging bold grooming choices with sophisticated elegance. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the texture and sculpted silhouette, celebrating heritage, strength, and natural beauty.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-showcasing-textured-coils-and-bold-hairstyle.jpg)

### [Media Influence](https://roothea.co/term/media-influence/)
![This intimate black and white composition highlights the cultural significance of hair care for Black women, as the woman holds a handcrafted wooden comb, visually linking the tangible object to broader narratives of identity, heritage, self-esteem, and embracing unique hair textures and patterns as a celebration of ancestral strength.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-holds-ornate-wooden-comb-textured-hair-care-heritage-portrait-black-and.jpg)

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            }
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        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "What Messages Did Ancient Hair Convey?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " In diverse African civilizations, hair was a vibrant form of communication, a visual lexicon understood by all. Before arbitrary lines delineated nations, the continent was a mosaic of kingdoms and clans, each with unique customs. Within these societal structures, hair became a profound expression of identity, status, and belonging. Hairstyles could denote a person’s geographic origin, marital status, age, or even their specific religious or ethnic affiliation. For example, the Fulani people of West Africa are recognized for their distinctive thin, woven braids adorned with cowrie shells and beads, which often carried meanings related to heritage and marital status. This rich system of visual cues allowed communities to communicate complex information without spoken words. The very act of styling hair was often a communal activity, particularly among women, serving as a time for sharing stories, wisdom, and strengthening social bonds. "
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "What Ancestral Styling Methods Were Practiced?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " The ancestral repertoire of styling techniques was rich and diverse, a testament to human ingenuity and deep observation of hair's natural inclinations. Beyond simple braiding, methods like threading, twisting, and knotting were common. African hair threading , known as “Irun Kiko” among the Yoruba, is an ancient practice that involved wrapping hair with thread, creating elongated and protective styles that safeguarded the hair from damage. This was an early form of protective manipulation, anticipating modern concepts of low-tension styling. Another enduring style, the Bantu knot , originating with the Zulu people of Southern Africa, involves coiling sections of hair upon themselves to form small, coiled buns, a technique that provides protection and sets hair with a distinct curl pattern. These methods underscore a long-standing understanding of how to manage and adorn textured hair in ways that honored its inherent structure. "
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Did Media Alter Hair Perceptions?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " Following emancipation, the struggle for acceptance within a dominant society led many Black individuals to adopt hair practices that aligned with Eurocentric beauty ideals. This era saw the rise of hair straightening as a means to gain social acceptance and economic opportunity. The burgeoning Black beauty industry, initially driven by innovators like Madam C.J. Walker and Annie Malone , offered products and tools like the hot comb, which allowed for temporary straightening. While these women built significant wealth and provided solutions for Black women seeking to conform, their innovations also, sometimes inadvertently, reinforced the notion that straight hair was the standard for professionalism and beauty. "
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Does Media Influence Hair Discrimination?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " The weight of historical narratives and persistent media portrayals of beauty has resulted in quantifiable challenges for individuals with textured hair. A significant example is found in the professional sphere. According to a 2020 article published in the Social Psychological and Personality Science journal, Black women with natural hairstyles like tight curls, box braids, or a natural afro were less likely to be recommended for job interviews compared to candidates with straightened hair or white women with curly or straight hair. This stark reality reveals how internalized beauty standards, often propagated through media, translate into real-world discrimination, limiting opportunities based solely on hair texture. "
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "What Protections Exist for Natural Hair?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " In response to this pervasive discrimination, legislative efforts have taken root, notably the CROWN Act . Standing for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” this legislation aims to prohibit discrimination based on race-based hairstyles by extending legal protection to hair texture and styles such as braids, locs, twists, and Afros in workplaces and public schools. California led the way in 2019, becoming the first state to outlaw such discrimination, a critical step towards dismantling a long-standing bias. While the CROWN Act has passed in many states, its federal passage remains a goal, underscoring the ongoing struggle for universal acceptance of natural hair. This act is not merely about legal protection; it is a profound affirmation of Black culture and identity , recognizing the intrinsic cultural importance of Black hair and uplifting individuals' choices regarding their hair. "
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/can-media-influence-lead-to-internalizing-beauty-standards-that-dismiss-textured-hair/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Textured Hair Heritage\" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "name": "Textured Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancient-african/",
            "name": "Ancient African",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancient-african/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Ancient African,\" within the scope of textured hair understanding, refers to the foundational knowledge and gentle practices passed through generations across diverse African cultures."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "name": "Cultural Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Identity, when considered through the lens of textured hair, represents a soft, abiding connection to the deep-seated wisdom of ancestral hair practices and the shared experiences of a community."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Heritage denotes the ancestral continuum of knowledge, customary practices, and genetic characteristics that shape the distinct nature of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/european-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "European Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/european-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ European Beauty Standards, when considered for textured hair, denote a historical aesthetic preference, predominantly for hair exhibiting straightness and fineness, a standard which often did not align with the intrinsic characteristics of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styles/",
            "name": "Protective Styles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Protective Styles denote a thoughtful strategy in textured hair care, meticulously crafted to shield the hair's more vulnerable lengths from routine manipulation and environmental exposure."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hair/",
            "name": "African Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Hair identifies the diverse spectrum of natural hair structures primarily observed within populations of African lineage, characterized by distinctive curl formations, ranging from gentle waves to tightly coiled patterns."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/transatlantic-slave-trade/",
            "name": "Transatlantic Slave Trade",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/transatlantic-slave-trade/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Transatlantic Slave Trade represents a deeply impactful historical period, where the forced displacement of African peoples significantly altered the lineage of textured hair understanding."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair-movement/",
            "name": "Natural Hair Movement",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair-movement/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Natural Hair Movement represents a conscious redirection towards acknowledging and nurturing the inherent structure of Afro-textured and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/",
            "name": "CROWN Act",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act establishes legal protections against discrimination based on hair texture and styles frequently worn by individuals of Black or mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "name": "Black Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/",
            "name": "Natural Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural Hair describes hair that maintains its original structural configuration, untouched by chemical processes like relaxers, texturizers, or permanent color that alter its natural coil, curl, or wave definition."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/mende-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Mende Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/mende-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Mende Beauty Standards describe the historical aesthetic ideals of the Mende people of Sierra Leone, particularly regarding hair's form and upkeep."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/caribbean-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Caribbean Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/caribbean-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Caribbean Beauty Standards, within the realm of textured hair understanding, refers to the collective aesthetic preferences and care principles rooted in the diverse cultural heritage of the Caribbean islands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Historical Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical beauty standards denote the prevailing aesthetic ideals for hair appearance across various periods, which frequently positioned textures inherent to Black and mixed-race hair outside the dominant aesthetic, leading to practices that often compromised its natural vitality."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards-evolution/",
            "name": "Beauty Standards Evolution",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards-evolution/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The concept of Beauty Standards Evolution, within the context of textured hair, marks a gentle yet powerful shift from historically narrow aesthetic ideals toward an authentic appreciation for the diverse forms of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/social-media-influence/",
            "name": "Social Media Influence",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/social-media-influence/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Social Media Influence, within the sphere of textured hair understanding, refers to the widespread impact digital platforms hold over how individuals acquire knowledge, shape routines, and apply care practices for their unique coils and kinks."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/digital-media-definition/",
            "name": "Digital Media Definition",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/digital-media-definition/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Digital media, within the gentle sphere of textured hair understanding, denotes the comprehensive digital ecosystem facilitating the growth of knowledge concerning hair biology, curl typology, and scalp vitality."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/social-media-reclamation/",
            "name": "Social Media Reclamation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/social-media-reclamation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Social Media Reclamation, within the textured hair domain, signifies a mindful redirection of one's digital engagement and content consumption."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/afro-latin-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Afro-Latin Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/afro-latin-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Afro-Latin Beauty Standards delineate the aesthetic ideals within communities of African and Latin American heritage, particularly concerning hair's appearance and its care practices."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/can-media-influence-lead-to-internalizing-beauty-standards-that-dismiss-textured-hair/
