# When Did Bias against Textured Hair Begin? ❉ Question

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

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![The monochrome portrait evokes ancestral pride through deliberate Fulani-inspired face painting, highlighting coiled afro texture styled with care the striking contrast celebrates natural sebaceous balance and emphasizes the profound connection to cultural heritage, illustrating enduring aesthetic strength within ethnic beauty ideals.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-embodied-heritage-with-fulani-inspired-face-painting-artistry.jpg)

![Against a backdrop of sunlit horizons, textured hair in the form of locs is silhouetted, evoking ancestral connections and symbolizing resilience. This image celebrates natural Black hair formations, its beauty, and historical significance in expressive Black cultural identity, wellness, and holistic care through styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/silhouette-of-person-with-locs-against-sunlight-revealing-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

## Roots

For those who carry the legacy of textured hair, the query “When did bias against [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) begin?” does not arrive as a mere academic exercise. It lands with the quiet weight of lived experience, a question often whispered in moments of reflection or shouted in acts of defiance. It is a query that beckons us to look beyond superficial appearances, to the very origins of our strands, and to the ancestral lands from which our unique hair patterns emerged.

To understand the genesis of this bias, we must first recognize the deep reverence and multifaceted significance textured hair held long before it became a point of contention. It is a journey into the heart of heritage, where hair was not simply an adornment, but a profound cultural archive.

![This image celebrates the legacy of textured hair through intergenerational African diaspora women, highlighting the enduring connection between cultural identity and ancestral hair styling with intricate braids and a headwrap, illuminating a profound narrative of heritage, beauty, and shared experience.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intergenerational-portraiture-of-african-descent-women-displaying-textured-hair.jpg)

## Hair Anatomy and Physiology Specific to Textured Hair

At its elemental core, textured hair, particularly coily and kinky patterns, presents distinct biological characteristics. Unlike straight hair, which typically grows from round follicles, highly [coiled hair](/area/coiled-hair/) emerges from elliptical or flattened follicles. This unique follicular shape dictates the hair strand’s curvature, leading to its characteristic spirals, zig-zags, and coils. The hair shaft itself often varies in thickness along its length and possesses more cuticle layers, which can lift at the bends, making it more susceptible to moisture loss and breakage if not tended with understanding.

This inherent structure, a marvel of biological adaptation, was once celebrated for its resilience and unique aesthetic. Evolutionary biologists theorize that tightly coiled hair served as an adaptation in early hominids, providing protection from intense sun exposure and aiding in scalp cooling by allowing air circulation.

Understanding the fundamental biology of textured hair reveals a design suited to specific environments, a testament to nature’s wisdom. The bias that arose later was not rooted in any biological deficiency, but in a systemic reinterpretation of these natural attributes through a lens of subjugation. The physical characteristics that once offered ancestral protection became targets for dehumanization, a stark contrast to their original purpose. The very structure that allowed for intricate styles and communication became a marker for perceived inferiority, a profound shift in perception that would echo through centuries.

![A peaceful rest is visually defined textured hair lies gently against a patterned pillow, highlighting the deep connection to heritage and identity. Self-care is revealed in this moment through rest, and a reminder of natural hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/serene-slumber-portrait-textured-hair-resting-softly-on-patterned-pillow.jpg)

## Textured Hair Classification Systems and Their Cultural Origins

The contemporary hair typing systems, like the Andre Walker chart (1A-4C), while seemingly benign tools for product recommendations, carry a complex and often troubling lineage. While Walker’s system categorizes hair into straight, wavy, curly, and coily types with subcategories, its historical precursors were far from neutral. The very concept of classifying hair based on its curl pattern has roots in the early 20th century, notably with Eugen Fischer, a German scientist and eugenicist.

Fischer developed a “hair gauge” in 1908 to determine the “proximity to whiteness” of Namibians based on their hair texture. This pseudoscientific endeavor was deeply intertwined with racist ideologies and the subjugation of indigenous populations during a period of genocide in Namibia.

> The historical roots of hair classification systems are intertwined with pseudoscientific attempts to justify racial hierarchies.
The “good hair” versus “bad hair” dichotomy, which became prevalent during and after slavery, further cemented this biased classification. “Good hair” often referred to straighter, looser curl patterns, perceived as closer to European hair, while “bad hair” described tightly coiled, kinky textures. This internal division within Black communities, known as texturism, remains a legacy of these imposed standards, where hair textures closer to white are still sometimes viewed as more acceptable.

![The monochrome portrait emphasizes the beauty and resilience of textured hair, a visual celebration of African American identity and self-expression. Defined facial bone structure contrasts with the hair’s striking volume, inviting reflection on the cultural significance of hairstyling as empowerment](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-an-african-american-woman-with-textured-hair-style.jpg)

## The Essential Lexicon of Textured Hair

The language used to describe textured hair has often been weaponized, stripping it of its inherent beauty and cultural significance. Terms like “nappy” or “wooly,” once used as racial slurs, served to dehumanize Black individuals and compare their hair to animal fleece. These terms contributed to a pervasive narrative that natural [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) was unruly, unprofessional, or unclean.

Yet, within the communities themselves, a rich and respectful lexicon existed, rooted in [ancestral practices](/area/ancestral-practices/) and the nuanced understanding of diverse hair patterns. These were terms of affection, of description, and of cultural belonging, a stark contrast to the derogatory labels imposed from outside.

The reclaiming of terms and the creation of new, affirming language has been a powerful act of resistance, shifting the narrative from one of imposed shame to one of inherited pride. This linguistic reclamation is a vital part of honoring the heritage of textured hair, recognizing that words hold power, shaping both perception and self-worth.

![The woman’s striking Afro, a showcase of coils and helix structure, presents a balanced sebaceous vitality reflective of holistic hair care, echoing ancestral Black hair traditions. The radiant beauty and soft glow highlight the importance of balance and overall vitality in embracing expressive styling and celebrating natural hair forms](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/radiant-afro-elegance-natural-hair-beauty-sebaceous-balance-holistic-shine.jpg)

## Hair Growth Cycles and Influencing Factors

The growth cycle of textured hair, like all hair, follows distinct phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). However, the unique structure of coiled hair can sometimes lead to challenges in length retention due to breakage at the fragile bends of the hair shaft. Ancestral practices, developed over millennia, instinctively addressed these concerns. Traditional care often prioritized moisture retention and protective styling, reflecting an intuitive understanding of the hair’s needs long before modern scientific explanations.

Historical environmental and nutritional factors also played a part, with diets rich in essential nutrients supporting robust hair growth. The wisdom embedded in these practices speaks to a deep connection with the body and the environment, a holistic approach to wellness that extended to hair care.

![The monochrome image highlights the beauty of natural hair and facial contours, emphasizing the strength in understated elegance. This refined portrait invites contemplation on identity and heritage reflected in an individual](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portraiture-of-a-woman-exhibiting-natural-textured-hair-style.jpg)

![This arresting black and white image showcases the beauty of African hair styled into smooth, sculpted waves, reflecting deep cultural heritage and personal expression. The strategic use of light accentuates the hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/dramatic-portrait-of-african-woman-with-sculpted-ebon-afro-hairdo.jpg)

## Ritual

Stepping into the realm of ritual, we begin to comprehend how the bias against textured hair did not simply appear, but rather solidified through the erosion of established cultural practices and the imposition of foreign ideals. It is here, in the tender care and communal bonds woven around hair, that we witness the deliberate dismantling of a heritage, forcing a shift in how Black and mixed-race individuals related to their strands. The story of bias is not just one of outward judgment, but of an internal struggle born from the systematic disruption of ancestral wisdom.

![The monochrome palette highlights the textures within her hair formations and woven ornaments, evoking a timeless connection to heritage, while the focus on natural elements points towards holistic ideals of beauty and expressive artistry in hair styling rooted in cultural nuance.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-adorned-with-braided-headband-and-textured-hair.jpg)

## Protective Styling Encyclopedia and Its Ancestral Roots

Protective styling, a cornerstone of [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) today, holds a profound ancestral lineage. Styles such as **braids**, **cornrows**, and **locs** were not merely aesthetic choices in pre-colonial African societies; they were intricate forms of communication, identity markers, and even tools for survival. Hairstyles conveyed a person’s age, marital status, tribal affiliation, social rank, wealth, and spiritual beliefs. For example, the Yoruba people of Nigeria crafted elaborate styles to symbolize community roles, and Maasai people in East Africa held specific beliefs about hair and spiritual energy.

During the transatlantic slave trade, these traditions were violently suppressed. Slave owners often shaved the heads of enslaved Africans in an attempt to erase their [cultural identity](/area/cultural-identity/) and sever their connection to their homeland. Despite this brutal dehumanization, some practices persisted as quiet acts of resistance.

Enslaved African women, particularly rice farmers, braided rice seeds into their hair for survival. Cornrows were also used to create maps for escape, demonstrating hair’s enduring role as a medium of communication and resistance.

> Protective styles, deeply rooted in African heritage, transformed from markers of identity into symbols of resistance under oppression.
The bias against textured hair began, in part, with this deliberate erasure of its cultural significance. When ancestral practices were deemed “savage” or “unclean” by colonizers, the very act of wearing one’s hair in its natural state became a political statement, rather than a natural expression of heritage.

- **Cornrows** ❉ Tracing back 5000 years to 3500 BC in African culture, these intricate braids close to the scalp served as communication mediums among various African societies.

- **Locs** ❉ Ancient Egyptian royalty, regardless of gender, wore dreadlocks or wigs with braids and elaborate coiffures, signifying status and spirituality.

- **Hair Wraps** ❉ In African villages, different prints and colors of hair wraps symbolized a person’s tribe or social status, also offering protection.

![This monochromatic portrait captures a striking woman with intricately sculpted textured hair, celebrating the beauty and artistry of natural hair formations. The elegant style reflects ancestral heritage while embracing contemporary beauty standards, resonating with themes of self-expression and hair wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-woman-with-sculpted-textured-hair-style.jpg)

## Natural Styling and Definition Techniques

Before the widespread imposition of [Eurocentric beauty](/area/eurocentric-beauty/) standards, natural styling techniques were diverse and varied across African communities. These methods, passed down through generations, focused on enhancing the hair’s inherent qualities, often utilizing [natural ingredients](/area/natural-ingredients/) readily available in the environment. The emphasis was on health, communal bonding, and the expression of identity. The idea that textured hair needed to be “tamed” or “straightened” is a construct that arose from a colonial mindset, which viewed African features as inferior.

This historical context reveals that the desire for “definition” in textured hair, as understood today, has been shaped by both internal cultural preferences and external pressures to conform to ideals that did not originate within Black communities. The techniques of shaping coils and curls were always present, but their perceived “acceptability” shifted dramatically with the advent of racialized beauty standards.

![This evocative portrait invites contemplation on Maasai beauty ideals the short, meticulously coiled hairstyle is a profound expression of cultural identity and ancestral heritage, while her direct gaze and traditional adornments narrate stories of resilience and the enduring strength of indigenous traditions.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-maasai-woman-displaying-traditional-hairstyle-and.jpg)

## Wigs and Hair Extensions Mastery

The use of wigs and hair extensions also possesses a deep and complex history within textured hair heritage, far predating modern fashion trends. In ancient Egypt, both men and women of the elite class wore elaborate wigs made from human hair, wool, and plant fibers, often adorned with gold and beads, symbolizing wealth and religious devotion. This historical context contrasts sharply with the later motivations for using extensions, which, during and after slavery, often shifted towards emulating European hairstyles as a means of assimilation or to avoid discrimination.

The journey of wigs and extensions, from symbols of power and spiritual connection to tools of conformity, highlights a profound cultural transformation influenced by external pressures. This shift reflects a period where the authentic expression of textured hair was penalized, leading to adaptive practices for survival and social acceptance.

![Bathed in contrasting light, the subject](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-coiled-hair-and-radiant-skin.jpg)

## Heat Styling and Thermal Reconditioning

The introduction of heat styling and chemical relaxers marks a significant turning point in the history of textured [hair care](/area/hair-care/) and the pervasive nature of bias. While early methods of temporary straightening, such as hot combs popularized by Madam C.J. Walker in the 19th century, offered a way to align with societal beauty standards, they also represented a departure from traditional, chemical-free practices. The rise of chemical relaxers in the 20th century provided longer-lasting results but often at the cost of scalp damage and hair breakage.

This widespread adoption of straightening methods was a direct consequence of Eurocentric beauty standards, which deemed natural textured hair unprofessional or unkempt in schools and workplaces. The pressure to conform was immense, leading many Black women to chemically alter their hair to secure economic opportunities and social acceptance. This period clearly illustrates how bias became deeply embedded in daily practices, influencing not only aesthetic choices but also health outcomes and economic mobility.

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

## The Complete Textured Hair Toolkit

The tools used for textured hair care have evolved from ancestral implements to modern innovations, each reflecting the prevailing understanding and treatment of these unique strands. In ancient Africa, intricate hair styling involved not only washing and oiling but also the use of specialized combs, often crafted from wood or bone, and adornments like beads, shells, and ivory. These tools were part of a communal ritual, a social opportunity to bond with family and friends.

The absence of these traditional tools and methods during slavery forced enslaved Africans to improvise, using rudimentary items like livestock combs and substances like butter or kerosene to care for their hair. This period marked a profound disconnect from ancestral practices and a reliance on whatever was available, highlighting the ingenuity born from adversity. Today’s toolkit, while incorporating modern advancements, can also draw inspiration from these historical roots, recognizing the enduring wisdom in tools designed to respect the hair’s natural structure.

![This monochromatic artwork captures the beauty of African diaspora identity through expressive coils of textured hair, a symbol of self-acceptance and cultural pride. Her gaze is self-assured, reflecting ancestral strength and resilience in the face of historical adversity, embodying holistic beauty](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-african-descent-woman-with-bold-natural-hair-style.jpg)

![The monochrome study emphasizes the woman’s elegant features framed by her platinum blonde afro textured hair, a nod to expressive style within mixed-race hair narratives. The close crop fosters an intimate connection with the viewer, reinforcing holistic beauty ideals and textured hair pride through ancestral heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-short-platinum-blonde-afro-textured-hair.jpg)

## Relay

How does the historical echo of bias continue to shape the very fiber of textured hair experiences, influencing not just our outward appearance, but our inner sense of self and our collective ancestral memory? This section seeks to unravel the complex interplay of biological realities, societal pressures, and enduring heritage that informs our understanding of textured hair today, moving beyond surface-level observations to a deeper comprehension of its profound cultural and historical weight.

![This evocative portrait captures the strength and beauty of an African individual with intricate coil-patterned textured hair, symbolizing heritage and wellness, embodying resilience with the shadows and light playing across the face, revealing the depth of ancestral history and the promise of holistic care.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-an-african-individual-with-textured-hair-and-jewelry.jpg)

## Building Personalized Textured Hair Regimens

The creation of a personalized textured hair regimen today, while often guided by modern science, can draw deeply from ancestral wisdom. Historically, hair care routines in [African communities](/area/african-communities/) were rooted in natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera, prioritizing moisture and scalp health. These traditional remedies, passed down through generations, demonstrate an intuitive understanding of the hair’s needs for hydration and nourishment. The concept of “greasing” the hair, a tradition of applying natural products to the scalp and strands, has been sustained across Black families, reflecting a continuous lineage of care.

The bias against textured hair, however, disrupted these established practices. The notion that textured hair was inherently “unmanageable” or “difficult” led to a reliance on harsh chemicals and products designed to alter its natural state, often causing damage. A personalized regimen today, therefore, becomes an act of reclaiming autonomy and aligning with a heritage of holistic care, choosing practices that honor the hair’s natural structure and ancestral needs.

- **Shea Butter** ❉ Widely used in traditional African hair care for its moisturizing and protective qualities, passed down through generations.

- **Coconut Oil** ❉ An essential oil recognized in ancestral practices and modern understanding for its high moisture content and ability to combat physiological stress.

- **Aloe Vera** ❉ Employed traditionally for scalp health and soothing properties, reflecting a long-standing knowledge of natural remedies.

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

## The Nighttime Sanctuary: Essential Sleep Protection and Bonnet Wisdom

The practice of protecting textured hair during sleep, particularly with bonnets or wraps, is not merely a modern convenience; it is a continuation of practices deeply rooted in ancestral wisdom. Hair wrapping, a tradition passed down in certain African communities, served not only to symbolize tribe or status but also to keep hair healthy and avoid damage. This understanding of hair as a precious, delicate aspect of the self, requiring deliberate protection, stands in stark contrast to the devaluation of textured hair that emerged with colonial influence.

The widespread adoption of bonnets and silk scarves today reflects a collective re-engagement with this ancestral knowledge, recognizing the importance of preserving moisture and preventing friction-induced breakage. This seemingly simple ritual speaks volumes about the enduring heritage of care and the collective effort to counteract centuries of bias that sought to diminish the intrinsic value of textured hair.

![The image captures the strength and beauty of a woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-black-woman-displaying-braided-bantu-knots-hairstyle.jpg)

## Ingredient Deep Dives for Textured Hair Needs

The effectiveness of traditional ingredients in textured hair care, long understood through ancestral knowledge, is increasingly validated by modern scientific inquiry. While some contemporary discussions about raw oils and butters have arisen, many African communities have used such ingredients for thousands of years with optimal results. The Himba tribe of Namibia, for example, coats their hair in red clay, and the Basara Tribe of T’Chad uses an herb-infused oil and animal fat mixture (Chebe) for length retention.

The bias against textured hair often dismissed these traditional practices as unsophisticated or unscientific, favoring chemically-laden products designed to straighten or alter the hair. This disregard for [ancestral wisdom](/area/ancestral-wisdom/) not only perpetuated harmful narratives but also overlooked effective, natural solutions. A deeper understanding of these ingredients, from both a heritage and scientific perspective, reveals a continuity of knowledge that transcends colonial interruptions.

![This monochromatic portrait captures the essence of modern African diasporic identity, showcasing a short, textured afro style that celebrates natural hair. The image embodies strength, confidence, and a reclamation of self-expression, resonating with ancestral heritage and holistic beauty ideals](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-young-black-woman-with-short-tapered-afro-hairstyle.jpg)

## Textured Hair Problem Solving Compendium

Addressing challenges related to textured hair today necessitates a dual lens, integrating modern dermatological understanding with the wisdom gleaned from ancestral practices. Historically, certain hair and scalp disorders disproportionately affect Black women, a reality often exacerbated by the use of harsh chemical treatments in an attempt to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. The “good hair” narrative, which favored straighter textures, pushed many towards damaging practices that ultimately compromised hair health.

The bias against textured hair, therefore, did not only manifest as social discrimination but also contributed to physical harm. Solutions to common textured hair problems, such as dryness or breakage, are often found in returning to the moisture-retaining practices and natural ingredients that were central to ancestral care. This holistic approach to problem-solving acknowledges the historical context of [hair health](/area/hair-health/) and seeks to repair the damage inflicted by centuries of imposed beauty ideals.

![With a genuine expression of joy, this portrait celebrates the natural beauty and resilient texture of African coily hair. The short cut emphasizes healthy coil patterns, showcasing the ease of low manipulation styling for strong type 4b hair forms while celebrating heritage and ancestral pride](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/radiant-joy-african-womans-natural-coily-texture-hair-style-and-laughter.jpg)

## Holistic Influences on Hair Health

The holistic approach to hair health, deeply embedded in ancestral wellness philosophies, extends beyond topical treatments to encompass overall well-being. In many ancient African cultures, hair was seen as a sacred part of the body, connected to spiritual energy and the divine. This belief meant that hair care was not just a physical act but a communal and spiritual ritual, a time for bonding and connection.

The bias against textured hair, by attacking this sacred aspect of identity, disrupted not only physical care practices but also the spiritual and communal dimensions of hair. The act of maintaining healthy textured hair today, therefore, becomes a reaffirmation of this holistic heritage, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The enduring legacy of this bias is the ongoing need to consciously reconnect with these ancestral philosophies, restoring hair care to its rightful place as a vital aspect of holistic self-care and cultural affirmation.

A study conducted by Dove in the UK found that half of Black and mixed women with afro textured hair have faced discrimination because of their hair. This statistic powerfully illuminates the enduring impact of historical bias, demonstrating that the perception of textured hair as “unprofessional” or “unattractive” continues to affect Black and mixed-race individuals in contemporary society. The bias, therefore, is not a relic of the past but a living reality that shapes experiences in schools, workplaces, and daily interactions.

![Striking portrait showcases her modern, sleek hairstyle reflecting ancestral beauty and wellness philosophies. The interplay of light and shadow emphasizes the beauty in textured hair form and sculpted waves, while dark dress, skin tones enhance visual depth and timeless elegance, celebrating identity and cultural heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-elegant-woman-wet-styled-short-textured-hair-beauty-shot.jpg)

![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.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-elegant-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-against-neutral-backdrop.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey to understand when bias against textured hair began is not a linear path, but a winding river, its currents shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, power dynamics, and the enduring spirit of heritage. It reveals that the devaluation of textured hair was not an inherent truth, but a constructed narrative, born from colonial agendas and perpetuated through systems of oppression. Yet, within this history of struggle lies a profound resilience, a continuous thread of ancestral wisdom that reminds us that our hair is a living archive, holding stories of identity, community, and unyielding beauty. To care for textured hair today is to honor this legacy, to consciously choose reverence over judgment, and to allow each strand to speak its own truth, unbound and celebrated.

![This striking monochrome portrait celebrates the beauty and versatility of textured hair, particularly the intricate styling of dreadlocks, set against the striking contrast of light and shadow, inviting a deeper appreciation for modern Black hair artistry and cultural pride.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-black-woman-with-styled-dreadlocks-and-mesh-top.jpg)

![This monochromatic portrait celebrates African heritage and ancestral hair traditions, showcasing meticulously styled short natural hair with striking silver highlights. The image invites reflection on identity, expressive styling, and the holistic beauty found in textured hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-african-descent-woman-with-undulating-short-styled-hair.jpg)

## References

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

- Collins, P. H. (2004). Black Sexual Politics: African Americans and the New Racism in the Twenty-First Century. Routledge.

- Fischer, E. (1908). Rassenanatomie der Namas. Gustav Fischer.

- Galtung, J. (1990). Cultural Violence. Journal of Peace Research, 27(3), 291-305.

- Hrdy, D. (1973). Quantitative analysis of the shape of hair curl. American Journal of Physical Anthropology, 39(1), 7-14.

- Oyedemi, T. (2016). ‘Beautiful’ hair and the cultural violence of identity erasure. African Identities, 14(3), 227-241.

- Robinson, C. (2011). Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St. Martin’s Press.

- White, C. (1799). An Account of the Regular Gradation in Man, and in Different Animals and Vegetables; and from the Former to the Latter. C. Dilly.

## Glossary

### [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.

### [Cultural Identity](https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/)

Meaning ❉ Cultural Identity, when considered through the lens of textured hair, represents a soft, abiding connection to the deep-seated wisdom of ancestral hair practices and the shared experiences of a community.

### [Hair Bias Research](https://roothea.co/area/hair-bias-research/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Bias Research gently uncovers the often-unseen preferences and systemic inclinations against certain hair types, particularly our beautiful curls, coils, and waves.

### [Afrocentric Hair Bias](https://roothea.co/area/afrocentric-hair-bias/)

Meaning ❉ Afrocentric Hair Bias points to a quiet inclination within broader societal and professional circles that often positions hair textures and styles historically common to European heritage as the benchmark, subtly overlooking or misinterpreting the distinct beauty and care needs of natural Afro-textured hair.

### [Professional Hair Bias](https://roothea.co/area/professional-hair-bias/)

Meaning ❉ Professional Hair Bias quietly shapes perceptions within the hair care landscape, particularly impacting the understanding and care of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [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.

### [Algorithmic Bias in Graphics](https://roothea.co/area/algorithmic-bias-in-graphics/)

Meaning ❉ Algorithmic Bias in Graphics gently points to instances where digital systems, often learning from vast image collections, inadvertently portray or overlook the distinctiveness of textured hair forms.

### [Cosmetology Education Bias](https://roothea.co/area/cosmetology-education-bias/)

Meaning ❉ Cosmetology Education Bias speaks to the structural gap within professional hair training, where understanding and techniques for textured hair, particularly Black and mixed-heritage coils and curls, receive insufficient attention.

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

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

### [Anti-Bias Education](https://roothea.co/area/anti-bias-education/)

Meaning ❉ Anti-Bias Education, within the gentle realm of textured hair understanding, softly guides us towards a more accurate appreciation of Black and mixed-race hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [In What Ways Did Historical Textured Hair Styling Protect against Damage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-historical-textured-hair-styling-protect-against-damage/)
![In black and white, hands grind ingredients, embodying ancestral heritage focused on preparing natural hair treatments. The scene reflects dedication to holistic wellness and the timeless process of crafting care solutions, showcasing a commitment to textured hair health through time-honored traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-preparing-traditional-black-hair-remedies-with-natural-ingredients.jpg)

### [Why Are Lipids Crucial for Textured Hair's Defense against Moisture Loss?](https://roothea.co/question/why-are-lipids-crucial-for-textured-hairs-defense-against-moisture-loss/)
![The graceful arc of braided extensions against a grayscale backdrop speaks volumes, a Black woman embodies freedom and joy. This evocative image celebrates textured hair as a canvas for identity, strength, and cultural affirmation, radiating an indomitable spirit that connects ancestral heritage with her unique expressive styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ebony-woman-radiating-joy-with-braided-hair-freedom-movement-on-road.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Ancestral Hair Practices Influence Modern Textured Hair Care?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-ancestral-hair-practices-influence-modern-textured-hair-care/)
![The portrait invites contemplation on modern hair aesthetics, celebrating textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-short-textured-hair-and-circular-hair-accessories.jpg)

### [How Do Historical Biases against Textured Hair Connect to Current Legal Challenges?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-historical-biases-against-textured-hair-connect-to-current-legal-challenges/)
![This captivating portrait celebrates the inherent beauty and artistry of textured hair, emphasizing the power of self-expression through contemporary Black hair traditions. The image highlights ancestral heritage, showcasing the fusion of modern styling with timeless elegance, affirming identity and pride.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-a-woman-with-textured-hairstyle.jpg)

### [Neuroimaging Cultural Bias](https://roothea.co/term/neuroimaging-cultural-bias/)
![The horsetail reeds, with their unique segmentation and organic form, provide a powerful visual metaphor for the architecture of textured hair, offering a natural lens through which to appreciate diverse formations and celebrate the innate beauty of each coil and spring.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-horsetail-reed-arrangement-evokes-natural-textured-hair-patterning.jpg)

### [What Historical Bias Influenced Textured Hair Classifications?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-bias-influenced-textured-hair-classifications/)
![United by shared tradition, women collectively grind spices using time-honored tools, linking their heritage and labor to ancestral methods of preparing remedies, foods and enriching hair care preparations. This visual narrative evokes generational wellness, holistic care, and hair health practices rooted in community and ancestral knowledge.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-united-in-traditional-african-spice-grinding-ritual-black-and-white.jpg)

### [How Did Ancient Egyptian Societal Views on Hair Inform Ancestral Practices for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-egyptian-societal-views-on-hair-inform-ancestral-practices-for-textured-hair/)
![The image elegantly portrays the natural formation of textured hair enhanced by water droplets, emphasizing the unique helix patterns reflecting themes of identity and ancestral connection. This evokes considerations of wellness and traditions through the celebration of natural textures and coiled forms.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-person-with-coiled-hair-adorned-with-water.jpg)

### [When Did Negative Attitudes toward Textured Hair Begin?](https://roothea.co/question/when-did-negative-attitudes-toward-textured-hair-begin/)
![This dramatic portrait celebrates Black woman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-black-woman-with-afro-in-dramatic-lighting.jpg)

### [How Did Ancestral Hair Rituals Preserve Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancestral-hair-rituals-preserve-textured-hair/)
![The braided fiber](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woven-braided-strand-pattern-black-and-white-textured-fiber.jpg)

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            "name": "Textured Hair",
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            "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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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/coiled-hair/",
            "name": "Coiled Hair",
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Coiled hair refers to hair strands forming very tight, often microscopic, helical or spring-like patterns, common within hair types typically categorized as 4A, 4B, and 4C, particularly among Black and mixed-race individuals."
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "name": "Black Hair",
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory."
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            "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."
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        {
            "@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."
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        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "name": "Cultural Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Identity, when considered through the lens of textured hair, represents a soft, abiding connection to the deep-seated wisdom of ancestral hair practices and the shared experiences of a community."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/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/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-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."
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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-communities/",
            "name": "African Communities",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-communities/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Communities, when considering textured hair, represent a deep well of inherited understanding and time-tested practices that span the global diaspora."
        },
        {
            "@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/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/hair-bias-research/",
            "name": "Hair Bias Research",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-bias-research/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Bias Research gently uncovers the often-unseen preferences and systemic inclinations against certain hair types, particularly our beautiful curls, coils, and waves."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/afrocentric-hair-bias/",
            "name": "Afrocentric Hair Bias",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/afrocentric-hair-bias/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Afrocentric Hair Bias points to a quiet inclination within broader societal and professional circles that often positions hair textures and styles historically common to European heritage as the benchmark, subtly overlooking or misinterpreting the distinct beauty and care needs of natural Afro-textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/professional-hair-bias/",
            "name": "Professional Hair Bias",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/professional-hair-bias/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Professional Hair Bias quietly shapes perceptions within the hair care landscape, particularly impacting the understanding and care of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/algorithmic-bias-in-graphics/",
            "name": "Algorithmic Bias in Graphics",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/algorithmic-bias-in-graphics/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Algorithmic Bias in Graphics gently points to instances where digital systems, often learning from vast image collections, inadvertently portray or overlook the distinctiveness of textured hair forms."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cosmetology-education-bias/",
            "name": "Cosmetology Education Bias",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cosmetology-education-bias/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cosmetology Education Bias speaks to the structural gap within professional hair training, where understanding and techniques for textured hair, particularly Black and mixed-heritage coils and curls, receive insufficient attention."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/anti-bias-education/",
            "name": "Anti-Bias Education",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/anti-bias-education/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Anti-Bias Education, within the gentle realm of textured hair understanding, softly guides us towards a more accurate appreciation of Black and mixed-race hair."
        }
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```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/when-did-bias-against-textured-hair-begin/
