# How Does Historical Discrimination Impact Textured Hair Care? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-05-25
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

## Roots

The very strands that crown our heads hold whispers of epochs past, carrying stories etched in their very structure. To understand how [historical discrimination](/area/historical-discrimination/) has shaped [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) care, we must first journey back to the source, to the elemental biology and the [ancestral practices](/area/ancestral-practices/) that defined hair long before the shadows of oppression lengthened across the land. This exploration is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of reclamation, a tender turning of the soil to reveal the enduring wisdom beneath layers of imposed norms. Our hair, in its myriad coils and patterns, is a living archive, a testament to resilience and an unbroken connection to a heritage that predates hardship. 

## Anatomy and Ancestral Understanding of Textured Hair

The distinct morphology of textured hair, often characterized by its elliptical follicle shape and a unique curl pattern, is a marvel of biological design. Unlike straight hair, which emerges from a round follicle, the flatter, ribbon-like cross-section of a coiled strand causes it to twist upon itself as it grows. This helical architecture, while granting incredible volume and strength, also means that [natural oils](/area/natural-oils/) produced by the scalp find it more challenging to travel down the hair shaft, making textured hair inherently more prone to dryness. For centuries, ancestral communities across Africa possessed a profound understanding of these inherent qualities.

Their care practices were not simply cosmetic; they were deeply attuned to the hair’s biological needs, recognizing its thirst and its capacity for protective adornment. This wisdom was passed through generations, a living science honed by observation and communal experience.

Before the transatlantic voyages, [hair care](/area/hair-care/) in many African societies was a communal ritual, a sacred practice interwoven with social status, spiritual beliefs, and communal identity. The hair was not just a covering for the head; it was seen as a conduit to the divine, a spiritual antenna connecting individuals to their ancestors and deities. Intricate styles communicated marital status, age, wealth, and tribal affiliation. This deep reverence shaped every aspect of care, from the selection of [natural ingredients](/area/natural-ingredients/) to the patient artistry of styling. 

> The intrinsic nature of textured hair, with its unique helical architecture, historically informed ancestral care practices long before external pressures sought to redefine its beauty.

## Classification Systems and Their Heritage

The modern [hair typing](/area/hair-typing/) system, often using numbers and letters (1a-4c), attempts to categorize hair based on its curl pattern. While ostensibly a tool for understanding hair needs, its origins are steeped in a problematic history. The initial attempts to classify [hair texture](/area/hair-texture/) in the early 1900s were not benign scientific endeavors but rather instruments of racial hierarchy.

Eugen Fischer, a Nazi German scientist and eugenicist, developed an early hair typing system to determine “Blackness” based on hair texture, using it to subjugate mixed-race populations in present-day Namibia. This chilling origin reveals how even seemingly objective scientific classifications can be weaponized to enforce discriminatory ideologies.

The legacy of such classifications persists, even in popularized modern systems. While Andre Walker’s system, widely used today, aims to help individuals identify their hair type, the implicit bias often places looser curls as more desirable, perpetuating a form of discrimination known as texturism. This subtle, yet pervasive, bias within the hair typing system itself demonstrates how historical discrimination continues to shape the very language we use to describe textured hair, influencing perceptions of “good hair” versus “bad hair” that are rooted in proximity to Eurocentric ideals. 

## The Ancestral Lexicon of Textured Hair

The language surrounding textured hair, before the imposition of colonial ideals, was rich with terms reflecting its spiritual and social significance. Concepts of hair were deeply integrated into the fabric of culture, conveying messages beyond mere aesthetics. In Yoruba culture, for instance, specific braiding patterns were not just styles; they were prayers, messages sent to the gods.

The names of styles often described their meaning or the community they represented. This lexicon was systematically eroded or demonized during periods of oppression, replaced by terms that denigrated natural texture, such as “nappy” or “unruly.” The forced shaving of heads during the [transatlantic slave trade](/area/transatlantic-slave-trade/) was a calculated act to strip enslaved Africans of their cultural identity, severing a vital connection to their homeland and people, including the meanings embedded in their hair.

A reclamation of ancestral terminology offers a pathway to restoring the reverence once held for textured hair. This includes recognizing the specific names of traditional styles and understanding the cultural narratives they carry. 

- **Irun Kiko** ❉ A traditional Yoruba thread-wrapping style, often carrying meanings related to femininity or rites of passage.

- **Gourone** ❉ A Chadian hairstyle featuring large, thick plaits alongside thinner braids, often seen as a traditional expression.

- **Canerows** ❉ A term for cornrows used in some Caribbean regions, emphasizing the historical continuity of the style across the diaspora.
The history of hair care is a history of adaptation, resistance, and survival. Even when [traditional tools](/area/traditional-tools/) and products were stripped away, enslaved Africans found ways to preserve their hair and its cultural meaning, using available materials like bacon grease or butter when traditional oils were absent. This adaptability, born of necessity, speaks to the enduring spirit of textured hair heritage. 

## Ritual

As we move from the foundational understanding of textured hair, our gaze turns toward the daily rhythms and ceremonial gestures that constitute its care. This section delves into the “Ritual” of textured hair, recognizing that practices, whether ancient or contemporary, are steeped in layers of history and meaning. The journey of [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) has been a profound adaptation, a constant interplay between [ancestral wisdom](/area/ancestral-wisdom/) and the imposed realities of discrimination. How have these historical pressures reshaped the very acts of cleansing, adorning, and protecting our hair?

It is in these recurring motions, these tender threads of care, that we find both the scars of past struggles and the enduring strength of heritage. The wisdom held within these rituals is not merely about aesthetic outcome; it is about self-preservation, communal connection, and the quiet assertion of identity against forces that sought to erase it.

## Protective Styling: Ancestral Roots and Modern Purpose

Protective styles, such as braids, twists, and locs, are not merely fashion trends; they are ancient practices with deep roots in African cultures. Historically, these styles served multiple purposes: conveying social status, protecting hair from environmental elements, and even acting as coded messages during times of oppression. During the transatlantic slave trade, when enslaved Africans were stripped of their identities and traditional tools, braiding persisted as a quiet act of resistance and cultural preservation.

Cornrows, for example, were sometimes used to conceal seeds for survival or to map escape routes. This demonstrates how discriminatory circumstances forced a practical adaptation of traditional styling, transforming an aesthetic and social practice into a tool for survival.

Today, [protective styling](/area/protective-styling/) continues to hold this dual significance. They shield delicate textured strands from manipulation, breakage, and environmental damage, while simultaneously serving as a powerful statement of [cultural pride](/area/cultural-pride/) and a connection to ancestral lineage. The discrimination against these very styles in professional and academic settings, often deemed “unprofessional” or “unkempt,” directly impacts the care choices of individuals with textured hair. This pressure to conform to [Eurocentric beauty standards](/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/) often pushes individuals towards chemically altering their hair, which can lead to adverse health outcomes. 

> Protective styles, rooted in ancient African traditions, represent both a practical method of hair care and a resilient assertion of cultural identity against discriminatory norms.

## Natural Styling and Definition: Echoes of Tradition

The quest for natural styling and curl definition in textured hair care today echoes the long-standing practices of ancestral communities who worked with, rather than against, their hair’s inherent structure. Traditional [African hair](/area/african-hair/) care involved a sophisticated understanding of natural ingredients and techniques to enhance hair’s vitality and appearance. Shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, and various herbs were routinely applied to nourish and protect hair, prioritizing moisture and scalp health. These practices were holistic, viewing [hair health](/area/hair-health/) as inseparable from overall wellbeing. 

The advent of [chemical relaxers](/area/chemical-relaxers/) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often marketed as a way to achieve “straight, smooth, and silky” hair, represented a significant departure from these ancestral methods. This shift was heavily influenced by societal pressure to assimilate into white culture, where straight hair was seen as a prerequisite for social and economic success. The widespread adoption of these chemical treatments, despite their often damaging effects, became a means for [Black women](/area/black-women/) to navigate a discriminatory world. The contemporary [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) movement, therefore, is not merely a trend; it is a powerful return to the essence of ancestral care, a conscious rejection of imposed beauty standards, and a celebration of the hair’s inherent form. 

## What Traditional Tools Guided Textured Hair Styling across Continents?

The tools used in textured hair care have a rich history, reflecting both ingenuity and adaptation in the face of scarcity. In ancient Africa, combs carved from wood, bone, or ivory were not merely utilitarian objects; they were often adorned with symbols, carrying spiritual and social meanings. These combs, alongside pins and razors, were essential for crafting intricate styles. 

During the era of enslavement, access to such traditional tools was severely restricted. Enslaved individuals were forced to improvise, using rudimentary items like animal bones, metal scraps, or even livestock combs. This resourcefulness underscores the enduring commitment to hair care, even under the most brutal conditions. The later invention of the metal hot comb in the 1880s, and its popularization by entrepreneurs like Madam C.J.

Walker, provided a new tool for achieving straightened styles, becoming a symbol of both assimilation and economic independence within the Black community. The journey of hair tools, from sacred artifacts to instruments of conformity and now to symbols of natural affirmation, mirrors the complex heritage of textured hair care.

## Relay

Moving beyond the foundational elements and the daily rituals, we arrive at the “Relay” ❉ the profound, ongoing impact of historical discrimination on textured hair care as it shapes identity, influences health, and charts the course for future traditions. This section is a deep inquiry into how the echoes of past injustices continue to reverberate through our contemporary understanding and practice of hair care, always seen through the irreplaceable lens of heritage. How do these historical impositions, subtle and overt, manifest in the very fabric of our hair journeys today, and what narratives do they compel us to carry forward? This is a space where science, culture, and ancestral memory converge, revealing the complex interplay that defines textured hair in the modern world. 

## Building Personalized Regimens: Echoes of Ancestral Wisdom

The creation of a personalized [textured hair regimen](/area/textured-hair-regimen/) today, though often framed by modern product offerings, inherently draws from centuries of ancestral wisdom. Before the systemic disruption of cultural practices, African communities cultivated intimate knowledge of local botanicals and their properties. Plants like shea butter, coconut oil, and various herbs were staples for nourishing and protecting hair, reflecting a holistic approach to wellbeing where hair care was integrated with overall health. These [traditional practices](/area/traditional-practices/) prioritized moisture, scalp health, and gentle handling, recognizing the specific needs of coiled and tightly curled hair structures. 

Historical discrimination, particularly during enslavement, forcibly severed many from these traditional resources and knowledge systems. Enslaved Africans were denied access to their customary ingredients and tools, often compelled to use harsh substitutes like lye soap, bacon grease, or kerosene, which severely compromised hair health. This deprivation initiated a cycle of damage and a desperate need for solutions, paving the way for the later market dominance of products designed to alter [natural texture](/area/natural-texture/) rather than support it. The legacy of this period means that contemporary textured hair care often involves a conscious effort to reconnect with or rediscover ingredients and methods that align with ancestral practices, moving away from a past dictated by oppressive beauty standards. 

## The Nighttime Sanctuary: Bonnet Wisdom and Its Historical Basis

The simple act of donning a satin bonnet or wrapping one’s hair at night is a practice deeply rooted in the preservation of textured hair, a ritual that holds both practical and symbolic weight. While modern materials like satin and silk offer optimal friction reduction, the concept of covering and protecting hair during sleep is not new. Historically, headwraps and coverings were integral to African hair traditions, serving purposes of protection from elements, conveying social status, and maintaining intricate styles. 

During slavery, headwraps took on an additional layer of significance. While they offered practical protection from harsh working conditions and a means to keep hair contained, they also became symbols of dignity and quiet resistance against forced assimilation. The Tignon Laws in Louisiana in the late 18th century, which mandated that Black women wear headwraps to conceal their hair, exemplify how discriminatory policies attempted to strip Black women of their beauty and social standing.

Yet, these women transformed the imposed headwrap into a statement of defiance and artistry, adorning them with skill and flair. This historical context underscores how even seemingly simple care items like bonnets carry the weight of centuries of adaptation and resilience, connecting contemporary practices to a heritage of self-preservation and subtle rebellion.

## How Does the History of Hair Typing Influence Textured Hair Product Development?

The historical classification of hair textures, particularly the problematic origins of systems like Eugen Fischer’s, has cast a long shadow over textured hair product development. This initial categorization, aimed at assessing “proximity to whiteness,” implicitly positioned tighter coils as less desirable. This discriminatory foundation influenced the beauty industry for decades, leading to a market saturated with products designed to straighten or relax textured hair, rather than nourish its natural form. Companies often used advertising that equated “straight,” “smooth,” and “silky” with desirable hair, thereby perpetuating a negative perception of naturally curly hair. 

This [historical bias](/area/historical-bias/) meant that research and development largely ignored the unique biological needs of textured hair, leading to a dearth of products that truly catered to its hydration requirements or supported its natural curl pattern. The consequences were significant: many products contained harsh chemicals linked to health issues like chemical burns, hair breakage, and even increased risks of uterine and breast cancer. The economic impact is also noteworthy; Black consumers spend substantially more on hair care products compared to other ethnic groups, a market often exploited by companies pushing harmful or unsuitable products. The contemporary shift towards the [natural hair movement](/area/natural-hair-movement/) has compelled the industry to pivot, demanding products that honor and support textured hair in its authentic state, signaling a powerful reclamation of agency and a redefinition of [beauty standards](/area/beauty-standards/) rooted in heritage. 

## Holistic Influences: Ancestral Wellness Philosophies

The modern understanding of holistic wellness, particularly concerning hair health, finds deep resonance in ancestral African philosophies. These traditions recognized the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, viewing hair not in isolation but as a barometer of internal balance and spiritual alignment. Care practices were often communal, fostering bonds and passing down wisdom through shared rituals. The use of specific plants for hair care was intertwined with their medicinal properties for overall health, reflecting a comprehensive approach to wellbeing.

For instance, ethnobotanical studies reveal numerous [African plants](/area/african-plants/) used for hair conditions like alopecia or dandruff that also possess properties relevant to systemic health, such as alleviating issues with glucose metabolism. This ancient perspective stands in stark contrast to the fragmented, problem-solution approach often adopted in modern beauty industries.

However, historical discrimination has often led to a dissociation from these holistic practices. The stress of systemic racism, the economic burden of conforming to [Eurocentric beauty](/area/eurocentric-beauty/) standards, and the physical damage from harsh [chemical treatments](/area/chemical-treatments/) have all taken a toll on the holistic health of individuals with textured hair. The constant pressure to alter one’s hair to fit societal norms can result in internalized racism and negative self-perception, impacting mental and emotional wellbeing. 

The CROWN Act, a legislative effort to prohibit [hair discrimination](/area/hair-discrimination/) in workplaces and schools, is a contemporary manifestation of this holistic fight. By protecting the right to wear natural and protective styles, it addresses not only external discrimination but also supports the psychological and cultural health of individuals, allowing them to express their heritage without fear of professional or educational reprisal. This movement acknowledges that true hair wellness extends beyond topical treatments, encompassing the freedom to embody one’s authentic, heritage-rich self. 

## Relay

Moving beyond the foundational elements and the daily rituals, we arrive at the “Relay” ❉ the profound, ongoing impact of historical discrimination on textured hair care as it shapes identity, influences health, and charts the course for future traditions. This section is a deep inquiry into how the echoes of past injustices continue to reverberate through our contemporary understanding and practice of hair care, always seen through the irreplaceable lens of heritage. How do these historical impositions, subtle and overt, manifest in the very fabric of our hair journeys today, and what narratives do they compel us to carry forward? This is a space where science, culture, and ancestral memory converge, revealing the complex interplay that defines textured hair in the modern world. 

## Building Personalized Regimens: Echoes of Ancestral Wisdom

The creation of a personalized textured hair regimen today, though often framed by modern product offerings, inherently draws from centuries of ancestral wisdom. Before the systemic disruption of cultural practices, African communities cultivated intimate knowledge of local botanicals and their properties. Plants like shea butter, coconut oil, and various herbs were staples for nourishing and protecting hair, reflecting a holistic approach to wellbeing where hair care was integrated with overall health. These traditional practices prioritized moisture, scalp health, and gentle handling, recognizing the specific needs of coiled and tightly curled hair structures. 

Historical discrimination, particularly during enslavement, forcibly severed many from these traditional resources and knowledge systems. Enslaved Africans were denied access to their customary ingredients and tools, often compelled to use harsh substitutes like lye soap, bacon grease, or kerosene, which severely compromised hair health. This deprivation initiated a cycle of damage and a desperate need for solutions, paving the way for the later market dominance of products designed to alter natural texture rather than support it. The legacy of this period means that contemporary textured hair care often involves a conscious effort to reconnect with or rediscover ingredients and methods that align with ancestral practices, moving away from a past dictated by oppressive beauty standards. 

## The Nighttime Sanctuary: Bonnet Wisdom and Its Historical Basis

The simple act of donning a satin bonnet or wrapping one’s hair at night is a practice deeply rooted in the preservation of textured hair, a ritual that holds both practical and symbolic weight. While modern materials like satin and silk offer optimal friction reduction, the concept of covering and protecting hair during sleep is not new. Historically, headwraps and coverings were integral to African hair traditions, serving purposes of protection from elements, conveying social status, and maintaining intricate styles. 

During slavery, headwraps took on an additional layer of significance. While they offered practical protection from harsh working conditions and a means to keep hair contained, they also became symbols of dignity and quiet resistance against forced assimilation. The Tignon Laws in Louisiana in the late 18th century, which mandated that Black women wear headwraps to conceal their hair, exemplify how discriminatory policies attempted to strip Black women of their beauty and social standing.

Yet, these women transformed the imposed headwrap into a statement of defiance and artistry, adorning them with skill and flair. This historical context underscores how even seemingly simple care items like bonnets carry the weight of centuries of adaptation and resilience, connecting contemporary practices to a heritage of self-preservation and subtle rebellion.

## How Does the History of Hair Typing Influence Textured Hair Product Development?

The historical classification of hair textures, particularly the problematic origins of systems like Eugen Fischer’s, has cast a long shadow over textured hair product development. This initial categorization, aimed at assessing “proximity to whiteness,” implicitly positioned tighter coils as less desirable. This discriminatory foundation influenced the beauty industry for decades, leading to a market saturated with products designed to straighten or relax textured hair, rather than nourish its natural form. Companies often used advertising that equated “straight,” “smooth,” and “silky” with desirable hair, thereby perpetuating a negative perception of naturally curly hair. 

This historical bias meant that research and development largely ignored the unique biological needs of textured hair, leading to a dearth of products that truly catered to its hydration requirements or supported its natural curl pattern. The consequences were significant: many products contained harsh chemicals linked to health issues like chemical burns, hair breakage, and even increased risks of uterine and breast cancer. The economic impact is also noteworthy; Black consumers spend substantially more on hair care products compared to other ethnic groups, a market often exploited by companies pushing harmful or unsuitable products. The contemporary shift towards the natural hair movement has compelled the industry to pivot, demanding products that honor and support textured hair in its authentic state, signaling a powerful reclamation of agency and a redefinition of beauty standards rooted in heritage. 

## Holistic Influences: Ancestral Wellness Philosophies

The modern understanding of holistic wellness, particularly concerning hair health, finds deep resonance in ancestral African philosophies. These traditions recognized the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, viewing hair not in isolation but as a barometer of internal balance and spiritual alignment. Care practices were often communal, fostering bonds and passing down wisdom through shared rituals. The use of specific plants for hair care was intertwined with their medicinal properties for overall health, reflecting a comprehensive approach to wellbeing.

For instance, ethnobotanical studies reveal numerous African plants used for hair conditions like alopecia or dandruff that also possess properties relevant to systemic health, such as alleviating issues with glucose metabolism. This ancient perspective stands in stark contrast to the fragmented, problem-solution approach often adopted in modern beauty industries.

However, historical discrimination has often led to a dissociation from these holistic practices. The stress of systemic racism, the economic burden of conforming to Eurocentric beauty standards, and the physical damage from harsh chemical treatments have all taken a toll on the holistic health of individuals with textured hair. The constant pressure to alter one’s hair to fit societal norms can result in internalized racism and negative self-perception, impacting mental and emotional wellbeing. 

The CROWN Act, a legislative effort to prohibit hair discrimination in workplaces and schools, is a contemporary manifestation of this holistic fight. By protecting the right to wear natural and protective styles, it addresses not only external discrimination but also supports the psychological and cultural health of individuals, allowing them to express their heritage without fear of professional or educational reprisal. This movement acknowledges that true hair wellness extends beyond topical treatments, encompassing the freedom to embody one’s authentic, heritage-rich self. 

## Reflection

The journey through the intricate world of textured hair care, viewed through the profound lens of heritage, reveals a story of enduring spirit. From the sacred rituals of ancient Africa to the persistent challenges of contemporary discrimination, each coil and strand holds a narrative of survival, adaptation, and profound beauty. The impact of historical discrimination on textured hair care is not a closed chapter; it is a living legacy, evident in the products we choose, the styles we wear, and the conversations we continue to have about identity and acceptance. Yet, within this ongoing narrative, there is a powerful current of reclamation.

Communities are returning to ancestral wisdom, celebrating the inherent qualities of textured hair, and advocating for a world where every strand is honored for its unique history and its place in a vibrant cultural tapestry. This continuous process of rediscovery and affirmation ensures that the soul of a strand remains unbound, a beacon of heritage shining brightly into the future.

## References

- Afriklens. (2024, November 1). African Hairstyles: Cultural Significance and Legacy.

- African American Museum of Iowa. History of Hair.

- Oforiwa, A. (2023, December 7). The History and Culture of African Natural Hair: From Ancient Times to Modern Trends. AMAKA Studio.

- Wikipedia. African-American hair.

- Hair Care Practices from the Diaspora: A Look at Africa, America, and Europe. (2025, January 23).

- University of Colorado Boulder. From White to Very White to Kinda Brown: Analysis of Racist Practices in the Cosmetic Industry.

- Feldscher, K. (2024, June 15). Uncovering the dangers of hair products marketed to Black women, girls.

- National Museum of African American History & Culture. (2025, February 25). Common Threads: Beauty as a Tool for Black Women’s Empowerment.

- Forbes. (2022, July 24). 4c Hair Discrimination: An Exploration Of Texturism.

- CURLYTREATS Festival. (2025, February 8). Afro comb: the cultural and political legacy behind this iconic hair tool.

- Issuu. Celebrating the history and beauty of afro-textured hair.

- MDPI. Cosmetopoeia of African Plants in Hair Treatment and Care: Topical Nutrition and the Antidiabetic Connection?.

- Oxford Research Encyclopedia of American History. (2017, November 20). Black Women and Beauty Culture in 20th-Century America.

- McLane Middleton. (2023, April 19). Understanding Hair Discrimination and the CROWN Act.

- Wikipedia. Discrimination based on hair texture.

- Érudit. The importance of hair in the identity of Black people.

- Elom African Braids. (2023, December 21). The History and Cultural Significance of African Hair Braiding.

- PMC. (2023, August 2). The Person Beneath the Hair: Hair Discrimination, Health, and Well-Being.

- Economic Policy Institute. (2023, July 26). The CROWN Act: A jewel for combating racial discrimination in the workplace and classroom.

- University of Michigan. Black Women and Identity: What’s Hair Got to Do With It?.

- The Commonwealth Times. (2011, February 14). The oppressive roots of hair relaxer.

- ResearchGate. (2024, February 2). Cosmetopoeia of African Plants in Hair Treatment and Care: Topical Nutrition and the Antidiabetic Connection?.

- colleen. (2020, August 28). The History of Textured Hair.

- Fiveable. Fashion and beauty standards | History of Black Women in America Class Notes.

- Wayne State University – Warriors Magazine. ‘My Kinky Hair is Beautiful’.

- University of Maryland, Baltimore. Hair It Is: Examining the Experiences of Black Women with Natural Hair.

- GW ScholarSpace. (2015, January 31). Redefining the Identity of Black Women: “Natural” Hair and the Natural Hair Movement.

- UW Sites. (2024, April 19). Textured Hair and EEGs: How can hair keep one from medical treatment?.

- Iowa State University Digital Repository. Hair and beauty choices of African American women during the Civil.

- ResearchGate. (2024, March 1). Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants used in the Treatment and Care of Hair in Karia ba Mohamed (Northern Morocco).

- Historical Perspectives on Hair Care and Common Styling Practices in Black Women. (2025, March 4).

- McGill Journal of Law and Health. (2022, September 8). Afro-Hair and the Law: The State of American and Canadian Law on Race-Based Hair Discrimination.

- MDPI. (2018, May 2). Herbal Cosmetics Knowledge of Arab-Choa and Kotoko Ethnic Groups in the Semi-Arid Areas of Far North Cameroon: Ethnobotanical Assessment and Phytochemical Review.

- CEConnection. Cutting out hair discrimination in nursing.

- Dermatology Times. (2023, November 30). What Every Dermatologist Must Know About the History of Black Hair.

- Livara Natural Organics. (2023, February 7). Black History Month: The Rich History of Our African Hair.

- NYC.gov. Legal Enforcement Guidance on Race Discrimination on the Basis of Hair.

- Byrdie. (2021, October 25). The Controversial History of the Hair Typing System.

## Glossary

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

Meaning ❉ Eurocentric beauty standards denote a historical leaning towards hair characteristics commonly found within European lineages, such as straightness, fineness, or gentle waves, alongside particular color and density ideals.

### [Hair Science](https://roothea.co/area/hair-science/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Science, specifically for textured hair, represents the systematic understanding of its distinct biomechanics and growth cycles.

### [Chemical Relaxers](https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers/)

Meaning ❉ Chemical Relaxers represent a category of strong alkaline agents, typically lye- or no-lye based, meticulously formulated to permanently reconfigure the natural curl pattern of highly textured hair by breaking and reforming its disulfide bonds within the hair's cortex.

### [Hair Care](https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands.

### [Hair Health](https://roothea.co/area/hair-health/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Health, for textured strands, denotes a state of optimal scalp vitality and fiber integrity, where each coil and kink displays balanced hydration and intrinsic resilience.

### [Wooden Combs](https://roothea.co/area/wooden-combs/)

Meaning ❉ Wooden combs serve as a foundational implement in the careful tending of textured hair, from coily to wavy patterns.

### [Black Women](https://roothea.co/area/black-women/)

Meaning ❉ Black women, as central figures in textured hair understanding, gently guide the comprehension of coily and kinky strands.

### [Eugen Fischer](https://roothea.co/area/eugen-fischer/)

Meaning ❉ Eugen Fischer represents a historical anthropological perspective, now thoroughly disproven, whose studies on human heredity and race led to deeply damaging pseudoscientific categorizations.

### [Hair Texture](https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Texture identifies the inherent physical configuration of individual hair strands, from gentle waves to tightly coiled patterns, a fundamental characteristic for those with Black and mixed heritage hair.

### [Hair Typing](https://roothea.co/area/hair-typing/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Typing offers a framework for understanding the unique curl patterns, coil formations, and wave textures present across Black and mixed-race hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [In What Ways Does Hair Discrimination Connect to Cultural Heritage and Identity?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-hair-discrimination-connect-to-cultural-heritage-and-identity/)
![Captured in stark black and white, the boy](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-boy-with-half-shaved-spiraled-patterned-hair-black-and-white.jpg)

### [Hair Discrimination Research](https://roothea.co/term/hair-discrimination-research/)
![This evocative monochrome portrait celebrates afro hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portraiture-afro-hair-leather-jacket-emphasizing-natural-hair.jpg)

### [Colonialism Hair Impact](https://roothea.co/term/colonialism-hair-impact/)
![The black and white portrait showcases the beauty of Afro coiled hair, creating an intimate connection with the viewer. The lighting adds depth to the image, capturing the essence of her texture and heritage, emphasizing the importance of self-expression and natural beauty within beauty standards.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-beautiful-woman-with-natural-afro-hair-style.jpg)

### [How Does Shea Butter's Historical Economic Impact Connect to Its Cultural Role in Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-shea-butters-historical-economic-impact-connect-to-its-cultural-role-in-hair-heritage/)
![A tender gesture of ancestral hair care traditions, captured in monochrome, showcases the application of natural ingredients, symbolizing heritage and wellness. This image honors cultural practices while nurturing tightly coiled textures, fostering self-love and communal connection with time-honored Black hair traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intimate-moment-of-heritage-hair-care-black-hair-traditions-and-ancestry.jpg)

### [Can Legal Protections Truly Dismantle Deep-Seated Hair Discrimination Rooted in Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/can-legal-protections-truly-dismantle-deep-seated-hair-discrimination-rooted-in-heritage/)
![This evocative image celebrates the magnificence of afro textured hair, spotlighting its rich coily pattern and the confident presence of its wearer, encapsulating both ancestral heritage and modern hair aesthetic with elegance that resonates with holistic expressions of beauty.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-elegant-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-against-neutral-backdrop.jpg)

### [Nutritional Impact](https://roothea.co/term/nutritional-impact/)
![This compelling portrait presents a fusion of modern style and heritage, highlighting the beauty of textured hair in a strong visual narrative of identity, enhanced by precise composition and deliberate monochrome tones for a timeless impact on self expression.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-with-braided-hair-and-shaved-sides-in-black-and-white.jpg)

### [In What Ways Do Modern Anti-Discrimination Laws Address past Hair Heritage Suppression?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-do-modern-anti-discrimination-laws-address-past-hair-heritage-suppression/)
![The interplay of light and shadow on her face, partially veiled by her hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-coiled-afro-textured-hair-style.jpg)

### [How Does Reclaiming Textured Hair Heritage Impact Modern Wellness?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-reclaiming-textured-hair-heritage-impact-modern-wellness/)
![Bathed in soft monochrome, the subject with expertly styled coiled hair and a hibiscus blossom evokes heritage through mindful grooming practices the portrait celebrates textured hair’s story of resilience, individuality and beauty. This image is a narrative of self-discovery, self-love, and cultural pride, showcasing wellness.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-adorned-with-hibiscus-flower-exploring-textured-hair.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does Hair Discrimination Impact Mental Well-Being within Heritage Communities?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-hair-discrimination-impact-mental-well-being-within-heritage-communities/)
![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)

---

## Raw Schema Data

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "name": "Home",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "name": "Question",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "name": "How Does Historical Discrimination Impact Textured Hair Care?",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-historical-discrimination-impact-textured-hair-care/"
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "Article",
    "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-historical-discrimination-impact-textured-hair-care/"
    },
    "headline": "How Does Historical Discrimination Impact Textured Hair Care? ❉ Question",
    "description": "Historical discrimination has profoundly shaped textured hair care by imposing Eurocentric beauty standards, disrupting ancestral practices, and impacting health and identity. ❉ Question",
    "url": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-historical-discrimination-impact-textured-hair-care/",
    "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Roothea",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/author/roothea/"
    },
    "datePublished": "2025-05-25T22:43:04+08:00",
    "dateModified": "2026-01-03T22:38:14+08:00",
    "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Roothea"
    },
    "articleSection": [
        "Question"
    ],
    "image": {
        "@type": "ImageObject",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-asymmetrical-bob-hairstyle-black-and-white-portrait.jpg",
        "caption": "The photograph elegantly frames a woman's face with a chic, asymmetrical bob, enhanced by sophisticated layering and monochrome tones. Light and shadow play upon her features, accentuating the hairstyle’s textural complexity and celebrating the inherent beauty of geometrically precise styling, epitomizing modern beauty standards."
    }
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "FAQPage",
    "mainEntity": [
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "What traditional tools guided textured hair styling across continents?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nThe tools used in textured hair care have a rich history, reflecting both ingenuity and adaptation in the face of scarcity. In ancient Africa, combs carved from wood, bone, or ivory were not merely utilitarian objects; they were often adorned with symbols, carrying spiritual and social meanings. These combs, alongside pins and razors, were essential for crafting intricate styles.\n"
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How does the history of hair typing influence textured hair product development?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nThe historical classification of hair textures, particularly the problematic origins of systems like Eugen Fischer's, has cast a long shadow over textured hair product development. This initial categorization, aimed at assessing \"proximity to whiteness,\" implicitly positioned tighter coils as less desirable. This discriminatory foundation influenced the beauty industry for decades, leading to a market saturated with products designed to straighten or relax textured hair, rather than nourish its natural form. Companies often used advertising that equated \"straight,\" \"smooth,\" and \"silky\" with desirable hair, thereby perpetuating a negative perception of naturally curly hair.\n"
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How does the history of hair typing influence textured hair product development?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nThe historical classification of hair textures, particularly the problematic origins of systems like Eugen Fischer's, has cast a long shadow over textured hair product development. This initial categorization, aimed at assessing \"proximity to whiteness,\" implicitly positioned tighter coils as less desirable. This discriminatory foundation influenced the beauty industry for decades, leading to a market saturated with products designed to straighten or relax textured hair, rather than nourish its natural form. Companies often used advertising that equated \"straight,\" \"smooth,\" and \"silky\" with desirable hair, thereby perpetuating a negative perception of naturally curly hair.\n"
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-historical-discrimination-impact-textured-hair-care/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-discrimination/",
            "name": "Historical Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical Discrimination, when considering textured hair, describes the enduring, systemic patterns of disadvantage and unequal treatment directed towards individuals, particularly those with Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "name": "Ancestral Practices",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Practices, within the context of textured hair understanding, describe the enduring wisdom and gentle techniques passed down through generations, forming a foundational knowledge for nurturing Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@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/natural-oils/",
            "name": "Natural Oils",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-oils/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural oils refer to the sebum naturally produced by the scalp's sebaceous glands, a gentle, intrinsic gift for the well-being of textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-ingredients/",
            "name": "Natural Ingredients",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-ingredients/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural ingredients, within the context of textured hair understanding, are pure elements derived from the earth's bounty ❉ plants, minerals, and select animal sources ❉ processed with a gentle touch to preserve their inherent vitality."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "name": "Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/",
            "name": "Hair Texture",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Texture identifies the inherent physical configuration of individual hair strands, from gentle waves to tightly coiled patterns, a fundamental characteristic for those with Black and mixed heritage hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-typing/",
            "name": "Hair Typing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-typing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Typing offers a framework for understanding the unique curl patterns, coil formations, and wave textures present across Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@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/traditional-tools/",
            "name": "Traditional Tools",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-tools/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Traditional Tools, within the sphere of textured hair understanding, denote implements often passed down through generations or those with a proven historical presence, serving as tangible links to ancestral wisdom and time-honored practices."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/",
            "name": "Ancestral Wisdom",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Wisdom, for textured hair, represents the enduring knowledge and discerning observations gently passed through generations concerning the unique character of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric beauty standards denote a historical leaning towards hair characteristics commonly found within European lineages, such as straightness, fineness, or gentle waves, alongside particular color and density ideals."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styling/",
            "name": "Protective Styling",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styling/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Protective Styling defines a mindful approach to hair care, particularly for textured, Black, and mixed-race hair, involving styles that thoughtfully shield strands from daily manipulation and environmental elements."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-pride/",
            "name": "Cultural Pride",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-pride/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Pride, within the sphere of textured hair, represents a gentle affirmation of one's Black or mixed-race hair lineage."
        },
        {
            "@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/hair-health/",
            "name": "Hair Health",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-health/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Health, for textured strands, denotes a state of optimal scalp vitality and fiber integrity, where each coil and kink displays balanced hydration and intrinsic resilience."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers/",
            "name": "Chemical Relaxers",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Relaxers represent a category of strong alkaline agents, typically lye- or no-lye based, meticulously formulated to permanently reconfigure the natural curl pattern of highly textured hair by breaking and reforming its disulfide bonds within the hair's cortex."
        },
        {
            "@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/black-women/",
            "name": "Black Women",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-women/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black women, as central figures in textured hair understanding, gently guide the comprehension of coily and kinky strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-practices/",
            "name": "Traditional Practices",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/traditional-practices/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Traditional Practices represent the generational customs and time-honored approaches to caring for textured hair, particularly within Black and mixed-race communities."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-regimen/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Regimen",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-regimen/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ A Textured Hair Regimen denotes the thoughtful, sequential practices consciously applied to honor and maintain the unique structure of coils, curls, and waves, particularly for Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-texture/",
            "name": "Natural Texture",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-texture/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural Texture refers to the inherent physical characteristics of hair as it grows from the scalp, unaltered by chemical treatments or significant heat manipulation."
        },
        {
            "@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/beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Beauty Standards often describe societal ideals dictating what is considered appealing, particularly concerning appearance."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-bias/",
            "name": "Historical Bias",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-bias/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical bias, in the gentle landscape of textured hair understanding, points to the subtle yet pervasive inclination within historical scientific and societal frameworks to primarily observe and define hair through a predominant lens of straight hair types."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-plants/",
            "name": "African Plants",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-plants/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Plants refer to botanicals sourced from the varied landscapes of the African continent, holding a quiet significance in the care and understanding of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-treatments/",
            "name": "Chemical Treatments",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-treatments/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical treatments gently adjust the intrinsic architecture of hair strands through specific chemical agents."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric Beauty describes an aesthetic framework that historically positions features and hair textures common in European populations as the prevailing ideal."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/",
            "name": "Hair Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Discrimination, a subtle yet impactful bias, refers to the differential and often unfavorable treatment of individuals based on the natural characteristics or chosen styles of their hair, especially those textures and forms historically worn by Black and mixed-race persons."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-science/",
            "name": "Hair Science",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-science/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Science, specifically for textured hair, represents the systematic understanding of its distinct biomechanics and growth cycles."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/wooden-combs/",
            "name": "Wooden Combs",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/wooden-combs/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Wooden combs serve as a foundational implement in the careful tending of textured hair, from coily to wavy patterns."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eugen-fischer/",
            "name": "Eugen Fischer",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eugen-fischer/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eugen Fischer represents a historical anthropological perspective, now thoroughly disproven, whose studies on human heredity and race led to deeply damaging pseudoscientific categorizations."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/how-does-historical-discrimination-impact-textured-hair-care/
