# How Did Ancient Kemetian Hair Care Impact Modern Textured Hair? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-01
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

![Botanical textures evoke the organic foundations of holistic hair care, mirroring Black hair traditions and mixed-race hair narratives. This leaf arrangement, reminiscent of ancestral heritage, connects natural ingredients with expressive styling for texture, promoting wellness and celebrating the artistry of textured hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artistic-black-and-white-leaves-arrangement-represents-natural-textured-hair.jpg)

![In black and white, hands grind ingredients, embodying ancestral heritage focused on preparing natural hair treatments. The scene reflects dedication to holistic wellness and the timeless process of crafting care solutions, showcasing a commitment to textured hair health through time-honored traditions](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-preparing-traditional-black-hair-remedies-with-natural-ingredients.jpg)

## Roots

To stand here, amidst the whisper of ancient winds and the vibrant hum of contemporary life, is to recognize a profound continuity ❉ a deep, resonant chord connecting the sun-drenched banks of the Nile to the intricate coils and textures that grace heads across the globe today. For those of us whose strands carry the stories of generations, whose hair speaks volumes without uttering a single sound, the inquiry into ancient [Kemetian hair care](/area/kemetian-hair-care/) is not merely an academic exercise. It is a homecoming, a recognition of ancestral ingenuity, and a powerful affirmation of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) heritage. This journey back to Kemet, the Black Land, is an exploration of how a civilization, thousands of years removed, laid foundational stones for the holistic care and adornment of hair that continue to shape our understanding of beauty, wellness, and identity. 

Consider the meticulous care ancient Kemetians poured into their coiffures, an attention rooted in practicality, spirituality, and social standing. Their practices, far from being superficial, were interwoven with their daily lives, their beliefs about health, and their very connection to the divine. This deep engagement with hair, particularly its protection and beautification, speaks directly to the inherent qualities of textured hair ❉ its need for thoughtful hydration, gentle handling, and styles that honor its unique structure. The Kemetian legacy, thus, offers more than just historical footnotes; it provides a profound blueprint for modern textured hair care, reminding us that the wisdom of the past holds vital answers for the present. 

![In a moment of tender holistic care, a woman expertly applies a conditioning mask to textured, natural hair, honoring time-honored Black hair traditions. This protective styling and deep conditioning ritual speaks to embracing natural coils and an ancestral heritage with beauty and wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intimate-moment-woman-applying-hair-mask-to-natural-black-hair-texture.jpg)

## What Did Kemetians Understand about Hair Structure?

The ancient Kemetians, though lacking modern microscopes and chemical analysis, possessed an intuitive understanding of hair’s fundamental needs, especially for hair types prone to dryness and breakage in arid climates. Their approaches to [hair care](/area/hair-care/) suggest an awareness of what we now classify as textured hair’s unique anatomical and physiological characteristics. They recognized the importance of moisture retention and scalp health, practices that are central to maintaining the integrity of coily, kinky, and wavy strands. This ancestral knowledge was not theoretical; it was embodied in their daily rituals and the ingredients they chose. 

For instance, the use of various oils ❉ such as **moringa oil**, often referred to as “Ben oil,” and **castor oil** ❉ was widespread. Jars of moringa oil have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, testifying to its value and widespread use. These oils, rich in fatty acids, would have provided deep conditioning, sealing moisture into the hair shaft and protecting it from the harsh desert sun and winds.

This resonates powerfully with modern textured hair care, where oiling is a cornerstone practice for maintaining hydration and preventing breakage. The very structure of textured hair, with its often elliptical cross-section and numerous cuticle layers, makes it more susceptible to moisture loss, a challenge the Kemetians clearly addressed through their emollient-rich regimens.

> Ancient Kemetian hair care, a blend of practicality and reverence, established enduring principles for textured hair wellness.

![The image celebrates the intimate act of nurturing textured hair, using rich ingredients on densely coiled strands, reflecting a commitment to holistic wellness and Black hair traditions. This ritual links generations through ancestral knowledge and the practice of self-love embodied in natural hair care](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/applying-hair-cream-to-coiled-hair-a-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

## How Did Climate Influence Kemetian Hair Practices?

The arid climate of [ancient Kemet](/area/ancient-kemet/) played a significant role in shaping hair care practices. The intense sun and dry air necessitated approaches that prioritized protection and hydration. This environmental context highlights the Kemetians’ adaptive genius, as they developed methods to counteract the dehydrating effects of their surroundings. Their focus on scalp health, often through the application of various balms and oils, was crucial for preventing dryness and irritation, issues still prevalent for those with textured hair living in diverse climates today. 

The frequent use of wigs, made from human hair or plant fibers and often styled with beeswax and resin, also served a practical purpose beyond mere aesthetics. Wigs offered a layer of protection from the sun’s direct rays and helped maintain hygiene by guarding against lice. This historical context underscores the ancient understanding of hair as both a symbol of status and a vulnerable biological structure requiring diligent safeguarding. 

![The portrait honors an elder statesman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-radiating-wisdom-black-and-gray-portrait-natural-hair-locs.jpg)

![This striking portrait captures the essence of natural beauty, celebrating the strength and resilience embodied in tightly coiled afro hair. The image evokes a sense of empowerment and pride, connecting textured hair to ancestral heritage and a modern expression of self-acceptance, styled with minimalist modern afro aesthetic](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-woman-with-tapered-afro-showcasing-natural-textured-hair-beauty.jpg)

## Ritual

Stepping further into the legacy of [Kemetian hair](/area/kemetian-hair/) practices, we find ourselves in a space where daily routines transcended mere maintenance, becoming instead a series of deliberate, almost sacred, acts. For anyone navigating the complexities of textured hair today, this historical perspective offers a profound resonance. It’s not just about what products were used, but how they were applied, the rhythm of their application, and the cultural significance imbued in each gesture. This section invites us to consider how ancient Kemetian hair care techniques, tools, and transformative styles continue to echo in the protective styling, natural definition, and even the very tools we use for textured hair today, revealing a continuous thread of heritage. 

![The elegant cornrow braids demonstrate a legacy of ancestral braiding, showcasing scalp health through strategic hair part placement, emphasizing the cultural significance of protective styles, hair density considerations, and low manipulation practices to support healthy textured hair growth rooted in natural hair traditions.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/cornrow-braids-on-young-black-girl-showcasing-scalp-health-and-shine.jpg)

## What Were Kemetian Protective Styling Traditions?

The concept of **protective styling**, so vital to modern textured hair care, finds deep roots in ancient Kemet. Archaeological evidence, including preserved mummies and tomb paintings, reveals a rich tradition of intricate braiding, twisting, and updos. These styles were not solely for adornment; they served to shield the hair from environmental damage, minimize tangling, and reduce breakage, thereby promoting length retention. This practical wisdom is a direct lineage to contemporary [protective styles](/area/protective-styles/) like braids, twists, and Bantu knots, which are fundamental for maintaining the health and length of textured hair. 

> Protective styles, deeply rooted in Kemetian practices, safeguarded hair for both practical and spiritual well-being.
For instance, ancient Egyptian women, particularly those of the elite class, wore elaborate wigs that were often intricately braided. These wigs, sometimes adorned with precious materials, symbolized wealth and social status. Beyond wigs, direct braiding techniques were also prevalent.

Young girls, for example, often wore distinctive “side-locks” that conveyed youth and innocence. This historical context demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how to manipulate and protect hair through styling.

![Gentle hands weave a story of heritage and love as a mother braids her daughter](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-braiding-daughters-hair-celebrating-black-hair-traditions-in-natural.jpg)

## How Did Ancient Tools Shape Styling Practices?

The tools employed by ancient Kemetians for hair care and styling bear striking similarities to those favored by textured hair communities today. Combs, often crafted from ivory, wood, or bone, were essential. Interestingly, evidence suggests the existence of **wide-tooth combs**, crucial for detangling textured hair without causing undue stress or breakage. This highlights an enduring understanding of textured hair’s delicate nature and the need for tools that respect its unique curl patterns. 

- **Combs** ❉ Early combs, dating back to 3900 BCE, were found in women’s tombs and often featured elaborate animal motifs, indicating their dual role as practical tools and decorative, perhaps ritualistic, items.

- **Hairpins** ❉ Various hair accessories, including hairpins, were found in burials, underscoring the importance of hairstyling in both life and the afterlife.

- **Curling Tongs** ❉ Some researchers even speculate that tools resembling curling tongs were used to create tight ringlets, a fashionable look for both men and women.
The Kemetians also utilized natural substances for styling and conditioning. Beeswax and resin were used to set elaborate wig styles and add luster. Henna was applied for coloring and strengthening hair, a practice that continues in many communities today. These historical applications underscore a practical, yet artful, approach to hair manipulation that prioritized both aesthetics and the hair’s overall well-being. 

![This vintage hair pick, immortalized in monochrome, speaks volumes about ancestral beauty rituals and the enduring legacy of textured hair traditions. Its robust form emphasizes the enduring practices in textured hair care, echoing ancestral wisdom passed through generations and holistic wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-vintage-hair-pick-detailed-texture-ancestral-heritage-beauty-tool.jpg)

![This captivating portrait highlights the artistry of braided protective styles, connecting to ancestral roots and holistic hair care practices. The subject](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-portrait-with-braided-protective-hairstyle-and-expressive-gaze.jpg)

## Relay

As we move from the tangible practices of ancient Kemet to their enduring imprint on modern textured hair, we begin to perceive a deeper, more profound connection ❉ a relay of wisdom across millennia. This is where the strands of history, biology, and cultural identity intertwine, inviting us to contemplate how Kemetian hair care transcended mere physical grooming to become a powerful language of self-expression, communal belonging, and resilience. The inquiry shifts from ‘what’ they did to ‘why’ it matters so profoundly for Black and mixed-race experiences today, recognizing that hair is not simply a biological extension, but a living archive of heritage. 

![The young girl](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-girl-adorned-with-traditional-beads-displaying-textured-hair-braids.jpg)

## How Do Kemetian Practices Affirm Textured Hair Identity?

The Kemetian approach to hair care offers a compelling historical affirmation of textured hair, directly challenging later narratives that sought to denigrate or simplify African hair types. In Kemet, hair was not something to be straightened or concealed out of shame; it was celebrated, adorned, and meticulously cared for. This stands in stark contrast to the historical trauma inflicted upon African hair during the transatlantic slave trade, where the forced shaving of heads served as a brutal act of dehumanization and cultural erasure (Randle, 2015, p.

116). The Kemetian reverence for hair, therefore, serves as a powerful ancestral counter-narrative, validating the inherent beauty and dignity of textured hair.

This historical validation is particularly significant for Black and mixed-race individuals today, many of whom are reclaiming natural hair as a symbol of identity, resistance, and pride. The conscious choice to wear afros, braids, twists, and locs is a modern echo of ancient practices that honored hair’s natural form and versatility. The Kemetian emphasis on cleanliness, health, and intricate styling speaks to a tradition where hair was a canvas for both personal expression and communal identity.

As Sieber and Herreman (2000) document, African hairstyles historically communicated tribal affiliation, social status, and spiritual beliefs. Kemetian practices, seen through this lens, provide a foundational layer to this expansive heritage.

![A child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/child-touches-ancient-carving-of-woman-with-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

## What Scientific Echoes Do We Hear from Kemet?

Beyond cultural resonance, modern hair science often provides empirical validation for the intuitive wisdom of ancient Kemetian practices. The Kemetians’ reliance on natural oils like **moringa** and **castor oil** for hydration and [scalp health](/area/scalp-health/) is a prime example. Contemporary scientific understanding confirms that these oils are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which nourish the scalp, condition hair, and protect against environmental damage. Moringa oil, for instance, is valued today for its lightweight texture and ability to condition hair without weighing it down, much as it likely served in ancient Kemet. 

The practice of protective styling, though developed without modern trichology, aligns perfectly with scientific principles of minimizing mechanical stress on hair. Textured hair, due to its unique curl patterns, is more prone to tangling and breakage. Styles that tuck away the ends and reduce manipulation, as observed in Kemetian artifacts, directly address these vulnerabilities, promoting [length retention](/area/length-retention/) and overall hair health. This ancestral foresight, supported by modern scientific understanding, reinforces the authority of traditional practices. 

The Kemetians’ use of wigs for hygiene, particularly to guard against lice in a hot climate, also finds scientific backing. While modern solutions for lice are readily available, the ancient practice demonstrates a pragmatic approach to public health and personal well-being that resonates with contemporary understanding of hygiene. 

The enduring legacy of Kemetian hair care is not merely a collection of historical curiosities; it is a living testament to the deep, interconnected heritage of textured hair. It reminds us that the quest for radiant, healthy hair is a timeless one, with roots stretching back to a civilization that understood the profound interplay between nature, ritual, and identity. 

![Hands extract aloe vera pulp for a traditional hair treatment, connecting generations through natural haircare rituals. This image represents a tangible link to ancestral heritage and the enduring beauty of holistic textured hair care practices promoting optimal scalp health and resilient hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/extracting-aloe-vera-for-textured-hair-care-holistic-preparation-method.jpg)

![Illuminated by soft light, this intergenerational moment shows the art of braiding textured hair connecting grandmother and granddaughter, symbolizing cultural heritage, holistic hair care, and the enduring power of ancestral skills and traditions passed down through generations.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-bond-textured-hair-heritage-grandmother-braiding-granddaughters.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey through ancient Kemetian hair care, culminating in its profound impact on modern textured hair, is more than a historical recounting; it is a living, breathing testament to the Soul of a Strand. Each coil, kink, and wave carries the echoes of ancestral wisdom, a legacy of intentional care, adornment, and cultural expression that refuses to be silenced. From the meticulous oiling rituals to the protective artistry of braids and wigs, the Kemetians laid down a foundational understanding of hair’s intrinsic value, not just as a physical attribute, but as a spiritual and social marker.

This heritage, passed down through generations, continues to shape the contemporary experiences of Black and mixed-race individuals, affirming identity and fostering a deep connection to the past. Our hair, in its myriad forms, remains a powerful conduit to ancestral practices, a vibrant library of stories waiting to be honored and understood.

![This striking visual evokes the raw, natural ingredients often at the heart of time-honored hair practices. From ancestral wisdom to modern holistic care, the image celebrates the rich heritage and nurturing traditions that fortify textured hair through generations of community](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-arrangement-of-natural-forms-evoking-heritage-textured-hair-care.jpg)

![This floral display mirrors the careful selection of natural ingredients for optimal Afro hair hydration and resilience. The monochrome palette enhances the organic textures, symbolizing a deep connection to ancestral heritage and the art of textured hair care](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-floral-arrangement-black-background-textured-hair-care-ingredients.jpg)

## References

- Byrd, A. D. & Tharps, L. L. (2001). Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St Martin’s Griffin.

- Lewis, L. (2023). Ancient Egyptian Beauty Secrets: Unveiling Timeless Beauty for African American Women. Independently published.

- Manniche, L. (1999). Sacred Luxuries: Fragrance, Aromatherapy, and Cosmetics in Ancient Egypt. Cornell University Press.

- Sieber, R. & Herreman, F. (2000). Hair in African Art and Culture. Museum for African Art.

## Glossary

### [Kemetian Botanicals](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-botanicals/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Botanicals refers to the mindful application of plant-derived wisdom, drawn from ancient Kemet's insightful grasp of natural resources, thoughtfully adapted for textured hair care.

### [Kemetian Beauty Rituals](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-beauty-rituals/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Beauty Rituals refer to the ancient Egyptian practices and philosophies centered on holistic self-care, particularly concerning hair and scalp health.

### [Length Retention](https://roothea.co/area/length-retention/)

Meaning ❉ Length Retention, for textured hair, refers to the sustained presence of hair strands from root to tip, reflecting success in minimizing breakage and preserving newly formed growth.

### [Kemetian Hair Oils](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-hair-oils/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Hair Oils are specialized botanical preparations, drawing influence from ancient Egyptian traditions, formulated to support the unique structure and distinct requirements of textured hair.

### [Kemetian Culture](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-culture/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Culture, when applied to textured hair, signifies a thoughtful approach to understanding the unique growth patterns and specific needs of Black and mixed-race hair, moving beyond surface appearance to a deeper, almost ancestral recognition of its fundamental structure.

### [Kemetian Ethnobotany](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-ethnobotany/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Ethnobotany, a gentle echo from antiquity, provides insight into the botanical wisdom of Kemet, guiding thoughtful care for textured hair.

### [Kemetian Oils](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-oils/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Oils denote a gentle lineage of plant-derived emollients and concentrated botanicals, thoughtfully composed, often drawing inspiration from ancient Kemetic traditions to specifically nourish the distinct structural needs of textured hair, from the softest waves to the most defined coils.

### [Kemetian Wigs](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-wigs/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Wigs, the artful hair coverings from ancient Kemet, or Egypt, were often shaped from natural fibers, human hair, or finely prepared plant materials.

### [Ancient Kemet](https://roothea.co/area/ancient-kemet/)

Meaning ❉ Ancient Kemet, within the context of caring for textured hair, represents a foundational period where understanding hair's inherent needs was a practice deeply integrated into daily life and identity.

### [Kemetian Hair Traditions](https://roothea.co/area/kemetian-hair-traditions/)

Meaning ❉ Kemetian Hair Traditions refer to the sophisticated hair care and styling practices observed in ancient Kemet, offering timeless guidance for textured hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Did Ancient Kemetian Hair Care Practices Align with Textured Hair Needs?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-kemetian-hair-care-practices-align-with-textured-hair-needs/)
![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.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-in-black-and-white.jpg)

### [What Kemetian Botanicals Hydrate Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/what-kemetian-botanicals-hydrate-textured-hair/)
![Elegant in monochrome, the portrait celebrates the beauty and strength embodied within afro textured hair, a coil crown, and classic style. The image is an ode to heritage, resilience, and the power of self-expression through textured hair forms, deeply rooted in Black hair traditions and ancestral pride.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-and-classic-dress.jpg)

### [Kemetian Hair Tools](https://roothea.co/term/kemetian-hair-tools/)
![Under dappled sunlight, the stylist](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-receiving-protective-hairstyle-braids-underneath-sunlight-detailed-black.jpg)

### [Can Ancient Kemetian Hair Practices Inform Modern Textured Hair Hydration?](https://roothea.co/question/can-ancient-kemetian-hair-practices-inform-modern-textured-hair-hydration/)
![The craftsman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elderly-woman-crafting-adornments-revealing-heritage-and-textured-hair-tradition.jpg)

### [How Did Kemetian Oils Protect Textured Hair from Sun?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-kemetian-oils-protect-textured-hair-from-sun/)
![The image conveys a moment of intimate care, as hands apply a rich moisturizer to tightly coiled hair, celebrating the beauty and strength of Black hair traditions and holistic care. This act embodies cultural identity, ancestral connection, and wellness for expressive styling, nourishing the hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/nourishing-textured-hair-deep-moisture-treatment-application-black-and-white.jpg)

### [How Do Historical Beauty Standards Impact Modern Textured Hair Choices?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-historical-beauty-standards-impact-modern-textured-hair-choices/)
![This image evokes vintage glamour, showcasing sculpted Afro textured hair achieved through masterful styling. The dramatic contrast and precise hair formations emphasize the timeless elegance of this ancestral heritage inspired look, celebrating both the beauty and cultural expression inherent in textured hair artistry.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-sculpted-afro-textured-hairstyle-and.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Kemetian Hairstyles Signify Social Status and Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-kemetian-hairstyles-signify-social-status-and-heritage/)
![This portrait evokes a timeless elegance, the artful arrangement of her hairline a testament to enduring Black hair traditions. The play of light emphasizes the texture and form, reflecting a dedication to holistic hair care and expressive styling that honors ancestral heritage.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-beautiful-black-woman-with-sculpted-edges-and-short-hair.jpg)

### [How Did Ancient Diets Impact the Vitality of Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-diets-impact-the-vitality-of-textured-hair/)
![The arrangement of these textured ingredient blocks evokes a sense of heritage, recalling formulations passed through generations for maintaining the strength and beauty of textured hair. It](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-array-of-textured-hair-product-ingredients-on-dark-background.jpg)

### [What Is the Historical Impact of Colonialism on Textured Hair Care Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-is-the-historical-impact-of-colonialism-on-textured-hair-care-heritage/)
![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)

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                "text": "\nBeyond cultural resonance, modern hair science often provides empirical validation for the intuitive wisdom of ancient Kemetian practices. The Kemetians' reliance on natural oils like moringa and castor oil for hydration and scalp health is a prime example. Contemporary scientific understanding confirms that these oils are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which nourish the scalp, condition hair, and protect against environmental damage. Moringa oil, for instance, is valued today for its lightweight texture and ability to condition hair without weighing it down, much as it likely served in ancient Kemet.\n"
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancient Kemet, within the context of caring for textured hair, represents a foundational period where understanding hair's inherent needs was a practice deeply integrated into daily life and identity."
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ The concept of Kemetian Hair points to a thoughtful approach to hair wellness, drawing wisdom from ancient Kemetic practices."
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styles/",
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            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
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}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-kemetian-hair-care-impact-modern-textured-hair/
