# What Historical Chemical Treatments Harmed Textured Hair? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-14
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

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![Echoing ancestral beauty rituals, the wooden hair fork signifies a commitment to holistic textured hair care. The monochromatic palette accentuates the timeless elegance, connecting contemporary styling with heritage and promoting wellness through mindful adornment for diverse black hair textures](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisan-crafted-wooden-hair-fork-for-textured-hair-holistic-care-rituals.jpg)

## Roots

The stories held within each coil, each curl, each wave of textured hair, speak of ancient lineage, of sun-drenched lands, and of wisdom passed down through generations. To trace the origins of [hair care](/area/hair-care/) is to listen to the echoes of ancestral practices, those gentle hands that braided and adorned, those rituals steeped in herbal knowledge and communal gathering. Yet, as the calendar turned and cultures collided, another story began to unfold ❉ a tale of chemical interventions, often born from pressures to conform, that inflicted deep harm upon these very strands, and upon the individuals whose heritage they embody. We look now not just at the damage done, but at the resilient spirit that persevered, understanding that to comprehend this history is to honor the hair that survived. 

![Granular clay, captured in stark monochrome, speaks to earth](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisanal-clay-mask-close-up-for-holistic-textured-hair-care-routine.jpg)

## Ancient Knowledge and Hair Biology

Across various civilizations, before the advent of modern chemistry, people drew from the natural world to care for their hair. Ancient Egyptians, for instance, used castor oil for its conditioning qualities, blending it with honey and other botanicals to create restorative masques for luster and growth (Oldham, 2024). In India, Ayurvedic traditions emphasized ingredients such as **amla**, **bhringraj**, and **coconut oil**, incorporating scalp massages to stimulate growth and promote overall hair vitality.

These methods recognized hair as a living extension of the body, a part of a larger wellness system, with a deep connection to lineage and natural rhythms. The understanding of hair was rooted in observation and the practical application of nature’s bounty, a stark contrast to later industrial approaches.

> Ancestral hair care practices were deeply connected to natural elements, viewing hair as an extension of holistic wellbeing and cultural identity.
Hair itself, regardless of its unique textural patterns, possesses a fundamental biology. The outermost layer, the **cuticle**, protects the inner cortex, where the protein bonds, particularly **disulfide bonds**, determine the curl pattern. Textured hair, often characterized by its elliptical shape and varied diameter along the shaft, naturally exhibits a lower tendency to distribute sebum evenly from the scalp, leading to a drier strand (Pinto et al. 2021).

This inherent structural difference, a biological marvel, was sometimes misunderstood or even deemed “unruly” in contexts where straighter hair became the societal ideal. Early attempts at altering hair texture, even before industrial chemicals, sometimes involved heat. Ancient Egyptians and Romans, for instance, employed heated combs and metal rods to straighten their hair, laying an early foundation for thermal alteration methods (Boulevard, 2022; Hair Design, 2024). While these methods posed risks if misused, they represented a mechanical, rather than chemical, interference with the hair’s natural state.

![Heritage intertwines with haircare rituals as grandmother and child collaborate on herbal remedies, a testament to holistic wellness. Transmitting ancestral knowledge enhances the child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-wisdom-black-hair-ancestral-roots-holistic-ingredient-preparation.jpg)

## Early Chemical Interventions on Textured Hair

The early 20th century marked a significant shift with the invention of chemical hair relaxers. Garrett A. Morgan, an African American man, is credited with inventing one of the first [chemical hair straightening](/area/chemical-hair-straightening/) products in the early 1900s, initially noticing its effect while working with sewing machine lubricants (Morgan, 1909; Quora, 2023). This invention, while offering a novel way to straighten coiled hair, set a course for widespread [chemical alteration](/area/chemical-alteration/) within Black and mixed-race communities.

These early relaxers primarily contained strong alkaline substances, such as **sodium hydroxide**, also known as **lye**. Lye works by chemically breaking the disulfide bonds within the hair’s cortex, permanently altering its natural curl pattern (HairClub, 2023; Drugwatch.com, 2023; Pinto et al. 2021).

The application of these potent chemicals was not without immediate consequences. Users often reported burning sensations on the scalp, which many were taught to accept as a necessary part of the process, a sentiment captured in the phrase, “beauty is pain” (Motley Rice, 2025; James-Todd, 2024). These burns could range from minor irritation to severe chemical burns, causing scabbing and increasing the scalp’s permeability to harmful chemicals. Beyond immediate pain, prolonged or improper use led to hair breakage, thinning, and even permanent [hair loss](/area/hair-loss/) conditions like **traction alopecia** and **central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA)**, which disproportionately affected [Black women](/area/black-women/) (Vinci Hair Clinic, 2020; SciELO, 2023).

The historical context here is critical: the adoption of these harsh chemicals was often driven by societal pressures to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards, where straight hair was deemed more “professional” or “acceptable,” impacting social mobility and economic opportunities (Forbes, 2022; Taylor & Kelly, 2025; ResearchGate, 2024). This pursuit of societal acceptance, rooted in a history of racial discrimination, made communities vulnerable to products whose long-term health implications were not fully understood at the time.

![Gathered in community, women meticulously braid, preserving ancestral heritage through the creation of protective hairstyles that honor textured hair traditions, enhanced by nourishing Jojoba and Shea butter hair products, a symbol of collective care and wellness.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/community-braiding-session-group-of-black-women-creating-protective-hairstyles.jpg)

![Inspired by nature’s bounty, the image captures a deeply personal ritual, reflecting the essence of traditional textured hair care practices passed down through generations. This moment illustrates ancestral heritage, fostering healing and celebrates the inherent beauty found in the union of nature, holistic self-care, and textured hair identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-practices-holistic-textured-hair-care-ritual-in-natural-setting.jpg)

## Ritual

The act of styling hair, across every culture, holds a profound meaning. It can be a daily ritual of self-care, a ceremonial preparation, or a powerful declaration of identity. For textured hair, styling has always been a form of artistic expression, a way to connect with ancestral customs, and a shield against prevailing notions of beauty.

Yet, this arena of self-expression also became a battleground, where harmful chemical treatments, presented as paths to conformity or ease, infiltrated centuries-old traditions, leaving a legacy of damaged strands and compromised wellbeing. We consider here how these chemical practices became embedded in rituals, altering not just the hair, but the very relationship individuals had with their heritage.

![The tightly coiled hair form, presented in stark monochrome, celebrates heritage while highlighting the intricate patterns and inherent beauty. Emphasizing holistic care and ancestral practices, the play of light and shadow accentuates the hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-monochromatic-study-of-textured-hairs-intricate-spring-like.jpg)

## Styling Practices and Chemical Influence

Traditional styling for [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) often centered on protective methods, designed to preserve the strand, retain moisture, and celebrate its natural form. Braids, twists, and various forms of coiling or wrapping have ancestral roots across African diasporic communities, serving purposes from communication and status markers to simple daily care (Library of Congress, 2021). These practices were deeply communal, passed from elder to youth, often accompanied by storytelling and shared wisdom. The introduction of [chemical straightening](/area/chemical-straightening/) offered a stark departure from these methods. 

Early 20th-century pressing with heated metal combs, a precursor to chemical straighteners, temporarily altered texture (SciELO, 2023; ResearchGate, 2018). But [chemical relaxers](/area/chemical-relaxers/) offered a promise of more permanent straightness. The cycle of hair relaxing, or **lanthionization**, involved applying the chemical cream to the hair’s base, allowing it to “cook” for a specific time, and then rinsing (HairClub, 2023). Because the effects were not permanent on new growth, a continuous cycle of “touch-ups” became necessary every few weeks, exposing the scalp and hair repeatedly to corrosive chemicals (HairClub, 2023; Wikipedia, 2023).

This regular exposure exacerbated the immediate harms, leading to chronic scalp irritation, burns, and cumulative damage to the hair protein structure (Motley Rice, 2025; Taylor & Kelly, 2025). The social context of this widespread adoption is critical: for many, these treatments were not merely about aesthetics; they were about survival and acceptance in societies that devalued natural textured hair, often equating straight hair with professionalism and beauty (Forbes, 2022; C+R Research, 2024). This pressure meant that the ritual of hair care, once a source of communal pride and self-expression, became intertwined with a quest for assimilation, sometimes at the expense of health.

![The aloe vera, a cornerstone in ancestral botanical practices, illuminates textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aloe-vera-composition-exploring-ancestral-herbal-traditions-and-textured-hair.jpg)

## Unseen Chemicals and Their Hidden Costs

Beyond the highly visible relaxers, other [chemical treatments](/area/chemical-treatments/) also presented dangers. **Hair pomades**, popular for styling and straightening, particularly in the mid-20th century, often contained petroleum-based oils and harsh synthetics. While some pomades today are formulated with natural ingredients, historical versions frequently included substances like **petrolatum**, **sulfates**, **parabens**, and **phthalates** (JACK HENRY, 2020; Out of Regz, 2022). Petroleum-based products could clog pores, leading to scalp issues and potentially hair loss, especially if not thoroughly removed (Out of Regz, 2022).

Sulfates stripped natural oils, causing dryness, while parabens and phthalates, often hidden in “fragrance” ingredients, have been identified as **endocrine disruptors** (JACK HENRY, 2020; Silent Spring Institute, 2018). These disruptors interfere with the body’s hormonal system, raising concerns about reproductive health issues and certain cancers (JACK HENRY, 2020; Silent Spring Institute, 2018).

Later, in the early 2000s, **keratin treatments**, sometimes marketed as “Brazilian blowouts,” gained popularity, promising frizz-free, smoother hair (Kera Mane, 2024). The original formulations of these treatments contained significant amounts of **formaldehyde**, a known carcinogen (Oregon OSHA, 2010; Kera Mane, 2024). Though manufacturers later sought to reduce or eliminate formaldehyde, early exposure led to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and eye discomfort for both clients and salon workers (Kera Mane, 2024; Drugwatch.com, 2023). The push for “easier” or “straighter” hair, steeped in cultural expectations, sometimes overlooked the invisible chemicals that compromised health and the long-term integrity of the hair itself. 

> The insidious nature of chemical harm in hair treatments lies not only in visible damage but also in the systemic health risks posed by hidden ingredients.
The pressure to conform to mainstream beauty standards, often equating straight hair with professionalism, played a significant role in the widespread use of these treatments among Black women. A 2023 survey study revealed that Black respondents reported the most frequent use of [chemical straighteners](/area/chemical-straighteners/) compared to other racial groups, with 61% stating they used them because they “felt more beautiful with straight hair” (Perry et al. 2023).

This statistic reveals the profound psychosocial impetus behind practices that, unbeknownst to many, carried serious health risks. It speaks to a history where external pressures dictated internal choices about one’s most visible connection to heritage.

![Hands engage in the mindful preparation of a clay mask, a tradition rooted in holistic wellness, showcasing the commitment to natural treatments for nourishing textured hair patterns and promoting scalp health, enhancing ancestral hair care heritage.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-mixing-natural-clay-mask-in-bowl-for-holistic-hair-wellness.jpg)

![Embracing ancestral wisdom, the hands prepare a rice water rinse, a treasured holistic practice for enhancing textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-washing-rice-for-textured-hair-rinse-holistic-ancestral-practice.jpg)

## Relay

The living archive of textured [hair history](/area/hair-history/) extends beyond personal experience; it encompasses scientific inquiry, [public health](/area/public-health/) dialogue, and societal movements that challenge entrenched norms. The devastating consequences of historical chemical treatments, once dismissed as mere beauty choices, are now being rigorously examined through the lens of population health and environmental justice. This advanced exploration reveals how the legacy of chemical harm on textured hair is inextricably tied to systemic inequities, prompting a collective re-evaluation of wellness and heritage for generations to come. 

![Aloe vera](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aloe-vera-slices-detail-holistic-textured-hair-care-ingredients-black-and-white.jpg)

## Are Chemical Hair Relaxers a Public Health Concern?

Contemporary research has cast a stark light upon the long-term health implications associated with chemical hair relaxers, particularly for Black women who have historically been the primary consumers of these products (Drugwatch.com, 2023; Clean Water Action, 2024). Studies have identified a correlation between frequent and prolonged use of these products and increased risks of severe health conditions. For instance, a notable study by researchers at Boston University’s Black Women’s Health Study (BWHS) reported in 2023 that long-term use of [chemical hair relaxers](/area/chemical-hair-relaxers/) by postmenopausal Black women was associated with a greater than 50% increased risk of **uterine cancer**, compared to those who rarely or never used them (Boston University, 2023). This finding holds significant weight given that Black women experience higher rates of aggressive [uterine cancer](/area/uterine-cancer/) subtypes and are nearly twice as likely to die from the disease compared to non-Hispanic white women (Boston University, 2023). 

The agents within these products, such as **sodium hydroxide**, **calcium hydroxide**, **guanidine hydroxide**, **parabens**, and **phthalates**, are implicated (Bell Legal Group, 2025; Drugwatch.com, 2023). Many of these substances are recognized as **endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)**, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance (Silent Spring Institute, 2018; Clean Water Action, 2024). EDCs are linked to a spectrum of reproductive health issues, including early menstruation, uterine fibroids, infertility, and an elevated risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast and ovarian cancers (Bell Legal Group, 2025; Clean Water Action, 2024). The alarming reality is that approximately 50% of [hair products](/area/hair-products/) marketed to Black women contain EDCs, a stark contrast to just 7% of products marketed to white women, a statistic that underscores environmental justice concerns within the beauty industry (Harvard School of Public Health, 2020; Clean Water Action, 2024). 

![The intimate portrait celebrates ancestral heritage through intentional hair care, a woman lovingly coats her intensely coiled textured hair with a nourishing hair mask. A self-care ritual honoring the legacy of Black hair traditions, showcasing the commitment to healthy, expressive styling with holistic products](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/applying-rich-hair-mask-to-intensely-coiled-textured-hair-at-home.jpg)

## How Do Chemical Treatments Undermine Hair Integrity and Heritage?

The fundamental mechanism by which chemical treatments like relaxers work involves intentionally damaging the hair’s natural protein structure (HairClub, 2023). Lye and “no-lye” relaxers, despite their differences in specific alkaline agents, both operate at a high pH, which can corrode skin and disrupt the hair’s cuticle and cortex (Vinci Hair Clinic, 2020; Pinto et al. 2021). This disruption renders the hair weak, brittle, and highly susceptible to breakage (HairClub, 2023).

Studies have shown decreases in amino acids like **cystine** in chemically straightened hair, making it resemble hair affected by conditions like trichothiodystrophy, a rare genetic disorder characterized by brittle hair (Pinto et al. 2021). This alteration is not merely cosmetic; it changes the intrinsic integrity of the hair fiber, affecting its strength, elasticity, and overall health.

The harm extends beyond the physical strand to the psychological and cultural dimensions. For many Black and mixed-race women, hair becomes a visible marker of identity, a connection to ancestry, and a site of resistance against oppressive beauty norms (C+R Research, 2024). The continuous use of chemical straighteners, often beginning in childhood (some as early as four years old), instilled lessons about conformity and the rejection of one’s natural texture (Drugwatch.com, 2023; DTSC, 2021). This practice, influenced by a pervasive “self-mediated racism” where Westernized beauty ideals are internalized, contributed to psychological conflict and a decreased satisfaction with [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) (ResearchGate, 2024; Perry et al.

2023). The very idea that natural hair was “unprofessional” or “bad” was reinforced by advertising that promoted straight hair as “good” or “silky” (Library of Congress, 2021; Perry et al. 2023).

> The journey of hair for Black women reveals a complex interplay between personal style, societal pressure, and deep-seated historical trauma.
The **CROWN Act**, initiated in 2019, represents a modern response to this historical discrimination, seeking to protect against race-based hair discrimination in workplaces and schools (ResearchGate, 2024; Perry et al. 2023). While an important step, it highlights the enduring legacy of a beauty culture that, for too long, celebrated uniformity at the expense of diversity and health. The shift towards natural hair movements is not just a style choice; it is an act of reclamation, a conscious decision to re-establish a connection with ancestral practices and self-acceptance, moving away from the chemical agents that harmed both hair and spirit. 

Specific historical chemical treatments that caused significant harm include: 

- **Lye-based Relaxers** ❉ These products, containing **sodium hydroxide**, were incredibly caustic, known for causing severe scalp burns, chemical irritation, and permanent hair damage. Their high pH levels (9-12) chemically disrupted the hair’s disulfide bonds, rendering it weak and prone to breakage (Pinto et al. 2021; HairClub, 2023).

- **“No-Lye” Relaxers** ❉ While marketed as gentler, these often used **calcium hydroxide** and **guanidine hydroxide**. They still caused scalp irritation, burns, and hair loss, and some research suggests they could be as damaging as lye-based versions in terms of scalp effects (Motley Rice, 2025; Bell Legal Group, 2025).

- **Formaldehyde-Releasing Keratin Treatments** ❉ Early 21st-century keratin treatments, particularly those from Brazil, contained 9-15% **formaldehyde**, a potent irritant and known carcinogen (Kera Mane, 2024; Oregon OSHA, 2010). Exposure led to respiratory issues, eye irritation, and skin reactions for both stylists and clients (Kera Mane, 2024).

- **Petroleum-Based Pomades** ❉ While not direct relaxers, many historical pomades contained petrochemicals like **petrolatum**, **mineral oil derivatives**, and synthetic fragrances (JACK HENRY, 2020; Out of Regz, 2022). These could clog scalp pores, impede healthy hair growth, and contain carcinogens like **PAHs** (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) through contamination (Out of Regz, 2022).
The story of these chemicals is not merely a scientific one; it is a profound testament to the intersection of commerce, societal pressure, and enduring cultural heritage. 

![An intimate view of tightly coiled, type 4 hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-close-up-of-kinky-coiled-hair-texture-deep-conditioning-treatment.jpg)

![The detailed porous surface evokes the inherent strength and resilience found in natural formations like volcanic rock, echoing the enduring beauty of tightly coiled hair textures maintained through generations of ancestral practices and holistic textured hair care methods.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/textured-surface-detail-intricate-porous-structure-volcanic-rock-beauty-heritage.jpg)

## Reflection

The coils and curls of textured hair carry more than mere protein bonds; they bear the weight of centuries, whispering tales of adaptation, aesthetic aspiration, and sometimes, profound compromise. Our exploration into the historical chemical treatments that harmed this heritage reveals a deep wound, a scar tissue not just on individual scalps, but within the collective consciousness of Black and mixed-race communities. The very desire for straightness, fueled by dominant [beauty standards](/area/beauty-standards/) that marginalized natural coils, led generations down a path fraught with corrosive chemicals, physical pain, and systemic health disparities. This period in hair history, rather than a deviation, represents a complex chapter in the ongoing journey of self-determination and cultural affirmation. 

Yet, within this difficult past resides a powerful resilience. The hair itself, despite the chemical assault, continued its cycle of growth. The individuals, despite the burns and breakage, continued to seek beauty and self-expression. And the communities, through shared experiences and growing knowledge, began to reclaim ancestral wisdom, advocating for health and honoring the true nature of their hair.

The natural hair movement, far from a trend, stands as a living testament to this reclamation ❉ a vibrant return to methods that prioritize wellbeing and celebrate the intrinsic beauty of every curl, kink, and wave. It is a profound meditation on self-acceptance, a conscious choice to heal the historical harms, and a commitment to nurturing the future of textured hair, not as something to be altered or subdued, but as a living, breathing archive of heritage, strength, and unapologetic radiance. The soul of a strand, indeed, remembers.

![This finely-milled ingredient, presented in monochromatic tones, whispers of ancestral beauty practices ❉ a cornerstone of holistic textured hair wellness. It evokes traditions centered on hair strength, rooted in time-honored herbal formulations handed down through generations for lasting heritage and self expression](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-powdered-ingredient-for-textured-hair-care-holistic-rituals.jpg)

![The monochrome visual invites reflection on sustainable afro wellness and the rich heritage of plant-based textured hair care, deeply rooted in ancestral knowledge and holistic practices, echoing traditions to protect and nourish natural heritage.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-cluster-of-palo-santo-seeds-holistic-wellness.jpg)

## References

- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. (2023). <i>First large study of hair relaxers among Black women finds increased risk of uterine cancer_.

- Boulevard. (2022). _Brush Up on Hair History: The Surprising Origin of the Tools of the Trade_.

- C+R Research. (2024). _The Connection Between Hair and Identity in Black Culture_.

- Clean Water Action. (2024). _The Tea on Toxic Beauty: Disproportionate Impacts of Toxic Chemicals in Beauty Products on Women of Color_.

- Department of Toxic Substances Control. (2021). _Chemicals in Hair Straightening Products Background Document_.

- Drugwatch.com. (2023). _Chemical Hair Relaxers & Their Growing Health Concerns_.

- Forbes. (2022). _To Straighten Or Not To Straighten: The Difficult Decision That Black Women Face When It Comes To Their Hair_.

- HairClub. (2023). _Get the Facts About Chemical Relaxers & Hair Loss_.

- Hair Design. (2024). _Smooth Strands: From Ancient Techniques to Heat Distribution Stylers_.

- JACK HENRY. (2020). _Is POMADE GOOD FOR YOUR HAIR?_

- James-Todd, T. (2024). _Uncovering the dangers of hair products marketed to Black women, girls_. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

- Kera Mane. (2024). _The Evolution of Safer Keratin Treatment Ingredients: Advancements for_.

- Library of Congress. (2021). _Heavy is the Head: Evolution of African Hair in America from the 17th c. to the 20th c._

- Morgan, G.A. (1909). _Hair Relaxing Cream._

- Motley Rice. (2025). _Hair Relaxer Side Effects | Cancers and Lawsuits_.

- Oldham, R. (2024). _Hair Care Secrets of the Past: What Our Ancestors Used for Healthy Hair_. ThickTails.

- Oregon OSHA. (2010). _“Keratin-Based” Hair Smoothing Products And the Presence of Formaldehyde_.

- Out of Regz. (2022). _Is Pomade Bad for Your Hair?_

- Perry, W.M. Nwadei, T. & Krueger, L.D. (2023). Getting to the Root: A Historical Review of Hair in US White-Black Race Relations and the Importance for Dermatologists. _Dermatology and Therapy_, 13(12), 2735-2742.

- Pinto, C. Valdebran, M. Garcia-Zuazola, A. et al. (2021). Effects of chemical straighteners on the hair shaft and scalp. _An Bras Dermatol_, 96(3), 347 ❉ 352.

- Quora. (2023). _What was that hair product that black Americans used to use in the 50s and 60s that would straighten their hair out? What was that stuff called, and what was it made of?_

- ResearchGate. (2018). _Relaxing/straightening of Afro-ethnic hair: Historical overview_.

- ResearchGate. (2024). _“I Remember My First Relaxer”: Black Women Voicing Psychologically Engrained Practices of Chemical Hair Straightening_.

- SciELO. (2023). _Black women’s hair: the main scalp dermatoses and aesthetic practices in women of African ethnicity_.

- Silent Spring Institute. (2018). _Hair products for Black women contain mix of hazardous ingredients_.

- Taylor, S.C. & Kelly, A.P. (2025). _Hair Care Practices: Complications, Treatments, and Prevention_. In Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color, 2e. AccessMedicine.

- Vinci Hair Clinic. (2020). _Are Hair Relaxers Damaging Your Scalp?_

- Wikipedia. (2023). _Relaxer_.

## Glossary

### [Chemical Perms](https://roothea.co/area/chemical-perms/)

Meaning ❉ Chemical Perms refers to a chemical process employing specific agents to permanently alter the hair's inherent structure, shifting its natural curl or coil pattern.

### [Overnight Treatments](https://roothea.co/area/overnight-treatments/)

Meaning ❉ Overnight treatments are purposeful hair applications designed to work during periods of rest, providing extended care for textured hair.

### [Textured Hair](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/)

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.

### [Chemical Alteration](https://roothea.co/area/chemical-alteration/)

Meaning ❉ Chemical Alteration denotes a deliberate, chemically-induced reshaping of the hair's intrinsic architecture, a transformation often seen with textured hair through processes like relaxing, color services, or specific curl pattern adjustments.

### [Natural Hair](https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/)

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.

### [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.

### [Formaldehyde](https://roothea.co/area/formaldehyde/)

Meaning ❉ Formaldehyde, an organic compound and simple aldehyde, is recognized in hair care for its ability to modify the hair's protein structure.

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

Meaning ❉ Chemical Relaxers Health within the Roothea framework signifies a nuanced understanding of the physiological and dermatological implications associated with altering the natural coil or curl pattern of textured hair, particularly for individuals of Black and mixed heritage.

### [Chemical Intolerance](https://roothea.co/area/chemical-intolerance/)

Meaning ❉ Chemical intolerance, a delicate whisper from one's unique scalp and hair fibers, points to an individual's specific, often delayed, adverse interaction with certain ingredients commonly found in hair care preparations.

### [Chemical Hair Styling](https://roothea.co/area/chemical-hair-styling/)

Meaning ❉ Chemical Hair Styling involves the precise application of chemical compounds to permanently modify the intrinsic structure of hair fibers, a practice holding particular significance within the care framework for Black and mixed-race hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [In What Ways Does Historical Hair Wisdom Influence Current Care for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-historical-hair-wisdom-influence-current-care-for-textured-hair/)
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### [In What Ways Do Historical African Hair Rituals Persist in Modern Care for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-do-historical-african-hair-rituals-persist-in-modern-care-for-textured-hair/)
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### [What Is Shea Butter's Specific Chemical Composition for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/what-is-shea-butters-specific-chemical-composition-for-textured-hair/)
![The concentrated clay embodies holistic hair care rituals, offering gentle cleansing and mineral nourishment for textured hair strands to promote health and longevity, echoing ancestral practices. Its simple presence honors the connection between earth, heritage, and the vitality of the scalp.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/fine-clay-powder-composition-for-heritage-hair-mask-raw-ingredient.jpg)

### [Can Historical Hair Care Practices Influence Modern Textured Hair Wellness?](https://roothea.co/question/can-historical-hair-care-practices-influence-modern-textured-hair-wellness/)
![This evocative monochrome study honors ancestral braiding artistry, showcasing a woman adorned with a braided crown that beautifully celebrates her afro textured hair and cultural heritage, while demonstrating masterful hair manipulation techniques that have been passed down through generations, for expressive styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-braided-crown-hairstyle-afro-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

### [How Did Early Hair Treatments Protect Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-early-hair-treatments-protect-textured-hair/)
![This portrait, rich in chiaroscuro, presents a young woman whose cornrow braid artistry speaks volumes about cultural heritage and self expression through meticulous coiffure, resonating with both timeless beauty and modern afrocentric identity, underscoring expert styling and technique.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-young-woman-with-cornrow-braids-in-black-and-white.jpg)

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                "text": "\nContemporary research has cast a stark light upon the long-term health implications associated with chemical hair relaxers, particularly for Black women who have historically been the primary consumers of these products (Drugwatch.com, 2023; Clean Water Action, 2024). Studies have identified a correlation between frequent and prolonged use of these products and increased risks of severe health conditions. For instance, a notable study by researchers at Boston University’s Black Women’s Health Study (BWHS) reported in 2023 that long-term use of chemical hair relaxers by postmenopausal Black women was associated with a greater than 50% increased risk of uterine cancer, compared to those who rarely or never used them (Boston University, 2023). This finding holds significant weight given that Black women experience higher rates of aggressive uterine cancer subtypes and are nearly twice as likely to die from the disease compared to non-Hispanic white women (Boston University, 2023).\n"
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                "text": "\nThe fundamental mechanism by which chemical treatments like relaxers work involves intentionally damaging the hair’s natural protein structure (HairClub, 2023). Lye and \"no-lye\" relaxers, despite their differences in specific alkaline agents, both operate at a high pH, which can corrode skin and disrupt the hair's cuticle and cortex (Vinci Hair Clinic, 2020; Pinto et al. 2021). This disruption renders the hair weak, brittle, and highly susceptible to breakage (HairClub, 2023). Studies have shown decreases in amino acids like cystine in chemically straightened hair, making it resemble hair affected by conditions like trichothiodystrophy, a rare genetic disorder characterized by brittle hair (Pinto et al. 2021). This alteration is not merely cosmetic; it changes the intrinsic integrity of the hair fiber, affecting its strength, elasticity, and overall health.\n"
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            "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."
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            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-hair-straightening/",
            "name": "Chemical Hair Straightening",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-hair-straightening/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical hair straightening refers to the precise application of specialized alkaline agents onto the natural curl patterns of textured hair, a process designed to permanently alter the hair's original disulfide bonds and internal keratin matrix."
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-alteration/",
            "name": "Chemical Alteration",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-alteration/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Alteration denotes a deliberate, chemically-induced reshaping of the hair's intrinsic architecture, a transformation often seen with textured hair through processes like relaxing, color services, or specific curl pattern adjustments."
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            "@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/hair-loss/",
            "name": "Hair Loss",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-loss/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair loss, for the textured hair community, is the gentle signal that the delicate ecosystem of your scalp and strands may be asking for a mindful adjustment."
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-straightening/",
            "name": "Chemical Straightening",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-straightening/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical straightening gently refers to the deliberate transformation of natural curl patterns, a practice often observed within the rich heritage of Black and mixed-race hair communities, through the application of specific chemical compounds."
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            "@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."
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            "@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."
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        {
            "@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."
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        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-straighteners/",
            "name": "Chemical Straighteners",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-straighteners/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Straighteners are potent formulations, typically alkaline, crafted to gently yet definitively restructure the inherent protein bonds within hair strands, yielding a softened, straightened appearance."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/public-health/",
            "name": "Public Health",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/public-health/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Public Health, as understood within the gentle context of textured hair, points to the collective well-being that grows from widespread access to accurate knowledge and effective care frameworks."
        },
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            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-history/",
            "name": "Hair History",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-history/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair History, within the sphere of textured hair, denotes the progression of understanding regarding Black and mixed-race hair, mapping its distinct qualities and requirements across epochs."
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        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-hair-relaxers/",
            "name": "Chemical Hair Relaxers",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-hair-relaxers/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical hair relaxers are alkaline agents formulated to permanently alter the natural curl pattern of textured hair, specifically Black and mixed-race strands, through a precise chemical process involving the breaking and subsequent reforming of disulfide bonds within the hair's internal structure."
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            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/uterine-cancer/",
            "name": "Uterine Cancer",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/uterine-cancer/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Uterine cancer, a condition centered in the female reproductive system, frequently brings physiological changes that can extend to one's personal experience, subtly influencing the presentation of textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-products/",
            "name": "Hair Products",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-products/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair products represent a thoughtful collection of formulations, each designed to address the specific needs of textured hair, including Black and mixed-race hair, moving beyond general notions of care."
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            "@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."
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        {
            "@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."
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            "name": "Chemical Perms",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-perms/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Perms refers to a chemical process employing specific agents to permanently alter the hair's inherent structure, shifting its natural curl or coil pattern."
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            "name": "Overnight Treatments",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/overnight-treatments/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Overnight treatments are purposeful hair applications designed to work during periods of rest, providing extended care for textured hair."
        },
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/formaldehyde/",
            "name": "Formaldehyde",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/formaldehyde/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Formaldehyde, an organic compound and simple aldehyde, is recognized in hair care for its ability to modify the hair's protein structure."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers-health/",
            "name": "Chemical Relaxers Health",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers-health/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Relaxers Health within the Roothea framework signifies a nuanced understanding of the physiological and dermatological implications associated with altering the natural coil or curl pattern of textured hair, particularly for individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
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            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-intolerance/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical intolerance, a delicate whisper from one's unique scalp and hair fibers, points to an individual's specific, often delayed, adverse interaction with certain ingredients commonly found in hair care preparations."
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Hair Styling involves the precise application of chemical compounds to permanently modify the intrinsic structure of hair fibers, a practice holding particular significance within the care framework for Black and mixed-race hair."
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---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-chemical-treatments-harmed-textured-hair/
