# Why Do Historical Views Affect Textured Hair Professionals? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-02
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

_
![An exploration of light, shadow, and texture through this study in monochrome reveals a striking contrast. Her platinum blonde coils frame a face, juxtaposed with the sleek, dark turtleneck, inviting contemplation of beauty standards, identity and textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-platinum-blonde-curly-textured-hair.jpg)

## Roots

To truly understand why historical views continue to shape the lives and livelihoods of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) professionals, we must first trace the vibrant, sometimes fraught, journey of hair itself through the corridors of time. For those whose ancestry reaches back to the continent of Africa, hair is more than mere protein strands; it is a profound cultural statement, a living archive of heritage, and a testament to enduring spirit. In many ancient African societies, hair communicated a person’s identity, their marital status, age, social standing, tribal affiliation, and even spiritual beliefs. Hairdressers were highly respected, their hands weaving not just styles, but meaning, connections, and communal bonds.

Consider the intricate [cornrows](/area/cornrows/) of West Africa, which could convey messages, and during the transatlantic slave trade, even became silent maps for freedom. Or the Maasai of East Africa, where hair rituals marked life’s passages, symbolizing new stages and reaffirming spiritual ties. Each coil, each braid, each twist held a story, a wisdom passed down through generations.

> Historical views influence textured hair professionals by embedding ancestral wisdom while also reflecting centuries of imposed standards and systemic barriers.
Then came the profound rupture of the transatlantic slave trade. The deliberate act of shaving hair upon capture was a calculated move to strip identity, to sever the spiritual and cultural ties so deeply woven into African hair traditions. This was a violent erasure, an attempt to dehumanize and disconnect. Enslaved people, denied access to their traditional tools and nourishing ingredients, saw their hair become matted and damaged, often hidden under scarves.

The imposition of [Eurocentric beauty standards](/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/) began in earnest, linking straighter hair to privilege and survival. This era introduced a painful concept of [texturism](/area/texturism/) within the Black community, where kinkier textures were, and in some disheartening ways still are, devalued in favor of looser curls or straight hair.

![This portrait captures the timeless allure of an elegant updo, celebrating African textured hair through refined braiding and hairstyling. The image evokes ancestral heritage and expressive styling, presenting a harmonious blend of cultural tradition and modern beauty standards](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-woman-with-braided-textured-hair-bun-updo.jpg)

## How Did Enslavement Alter Perceptions of Hair?

The system of slavery twisted the narrative around textured hair. It shifted from being a vibrant symbol of identity and spiritual connection to a marker of perceived inferiority. The “Good Hair” study, for instance, found that natural afro-textured hair continues to be perceived as unprofessional and unattractive by people regardless of their race or gender, a bias rooted deeply in this historical conditioning. (Lukate, cited in Kilburn & Strode, 2021) This historical devaluation laid a troubling foundation for textured hair professionals, forcing them to operate within a system that often subtly or overtly promoted an aesthetic alien to the inherent nature of their clients’ hair.

In the aftermath of emancipation, a new form of pressure arose: the need to assimilate for social and economic opportunities. This led to the widespread use of [chemical relaxers](/area/chemical-relaxers/) and hot combs to straighten hair, further solidifying the Eurocentric ideal. Black women, seeking employment and social acceptance, often felt compelled to alter their natural hair. This era saw the emergence of figures like Madam C.J.

Walker and Annie Turnbo Malone, who, while building empires and providing economic opportunities for Black women, did so within the prevailing context of hair alteration. They created products that catered to the needs of Black hair, yet the societal pressure for straightened styles remained a powerful undercurrent.

![The bristle brush symbolizes a commitment to healthy, textured hair ancestral practices embraced modern wellness through specialized tools, aiding gentle detangling and styling. This thoughtful care fosters both physical and cultural pride, reflecting the unique beauty of inherited hair patterns](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/dense-bristle-brush-for-textured-hair-care-black-and-white.jpg)

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

## Ritual

The legacy of these historical views filters down into the daily rituals and professional practices surrounding textured hair. What began as an intimate act of communal care, often spanning hours and fostering deep bonds, transformed under oppressive systems into a complex negotiation of identity and acceptance. The hands of a textured hair professional today carry not just styling tools, but also the weight of this intricate past.

The journey from ancient care rituals to modern salon practices reveals a profound influence of these historical perceptions. Pre-colonial African [hair care](/area/hair-care/) involved meticulous washing, oiling, braiding, twisting, and adornment with natural materials like beads and shells. These practices were social occasions, a time for sharing stories and reinforcing community ties. The very act of braiding was a spiritual one, with hair being considered a conduit to the divine.

![The braided hairstyle, a celebration of textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-woman-portrait-artistic-braided-hairstyle-textured-hair-expressions.jpg)

## How Do Historical Beauty Standards Impact Modern Professional Training?

The professional landscape for textured hair artists has long been shaped by standards that historically prioritized straight hair. Beauty schools and cosmetology board regulations often did not adequately address the unique needs and styling techniques for textured hair. Until relatively recently, the curricula in many institutions were rooted in practices and understandings primarily applicable to European hair textures.

This created a knowledge gap, pushing professionals to learn about textured hair through informal channels or self-education. Even after segregation formally ended, many salons and schools continued to cater predominantly to one racial group, perpetuating a divide in expertise and perception.

The [Civil Rights Movement](/area/civil-rights-movement/) of the 1960s sparked a profound shift, with the Afro emerging as a powerful symbol of Black pride and a rejection of Eurocentric beauty norms. Icons like Angela Davis wore their [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) as a political statement, challenging societal expectations. This period saw a renewed appreciation for cornrows, braids, and locs as expressions of cultural heritage.

> The shift in natural hair acceptance, spurred by social movements, has reshaped the market and professional opportunities for textured hair specialists.
The 2000s ushered in a second wave of the natural hair movement, fueled by social media and a growing desire for healthy hair, leading many to abandon chemical relaxers. This movement has created opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and led to a wider availability of products for textured hair.

The journey has been far from linear. Despite the natural hair movement’s progress, discrimination against natural [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) persists in workplaces and schools. Policies that ban or restrict natural hair or styles associated with Black people are often rooted in white standards of appearance and perpetuate racist stereotypes. This enduring bias directly impacts textured hair professionals, as their clients may still face social or professional repercussions for wearing their natural hair.

![The black and white tone adds a timeless quality to this scene of cultural exchange, inviting contemplation on the ancestral heritage embodied in textured hair, its ongoing evolution within modern beauty standards, and the commitment to its care and creative expression.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-of-textured-hair-stylist-creating-protective-hairstyles.jpg)

![This elegant monochrome portrait captures a woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-closely-cropped-afro-textured-hair.jpg)

## Relay

The impact of historical views on textured hair professionals extends beyond mere aesthetics; it shapes the very ecosystem in which they operate. This legacy influences educational pathways, legal protections, and the ongoing dialogue around hair discrimination, particularly for Black and mixed-race communities. The relay of ancestral knowledge, once intimate and intergenerational, now contends with the echoes of systemic marginalization.

In pre-colonial African societies, the act of hair styling was a significant communal activity, passing down knowledge and solidifying social bonds. Hair was a statement of identity, status, and spirituality. These intricate styles, such as Irun Kiko, a form of thread-wrapping, or various braiding patterns, were not simply decorative.

They carried deep cultural meanings related to femininity, marriage, coming-of-age rites, and spiritual connection. Hairdressers, therefore, were not just stylists; they were custodians of tradition, respected for their skill and their role in communal well-being.

![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)

## How Do Historical Biases Continue to Shape Professional Cosmetology Standards?

The influence of historical views permeates even the technical and regulatory aspects of the cosmetology profession. Consider the historical segregation of beauty schools and state cosmetology boards. While integration has occurred, the foundational curriculum in many beauty programs has only slowly begun to adapt to the diverse needs of textured hair.

This historical bias means that many professionals, particularly those of African descent, have had to seek specialized training outside of mainstream institutions, often through independent workshops or self-study, to master the nuances of [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) and styling. This creates an uneven playing field in professional development and recognition.

The fight for legal recognition of natural hair is a direct consequence of these historical biases. The CROWN Act, for instance, which stands for “Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” aims to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles. As of July 2024, 25 out of 50 U.S.

states have prohibited such discrimination. This legislative push highlights the persistent reality that historical views on textured hair continue to affect how individuals, including textured hair professionals themselves, are treated in workplaces and educational settings.

> The ongoing legislative battle for hair freedom underscores how historical beauty standards still restrict opportunities and professional recognition.
The medical community also bears the imprint of these historical views. Dermatologists, for example, are increasingly recognizing the importance of understanding the history and cultural significance of Black hair to reduce implicit biases and improve patient care. Chemical relaxers, a product of the post-emancipation era’s pressure to conform, have been linked to dermatologic conditions such as [traction alopecia](/area/traction-alopecia/) and [Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia](/area/central-centrifugal-cicatricial-alopecia/) (CCCA), disproportionately affecting Black women. The medical implications of these [historical beauty standards](/area/historical-beauty-standards/) underscore a critical need for a holistic, historically informed approach to textured hair care, extending to the training of healthcare professionals.

The legacy of pioneers like [Madam C.J. Walker](/area/madam-c-j-walker/) (1867-1919) and [Annie Turnbo Malone](/area/annie-turnbo-malone/) also illustrates this complex inheritance. Walker, often credited as the first self-made female millionaire in America, developed hair care products specifically for [Black women](/area/black-women/) suffering from scalp conditions and hair loss. Her “Walker System” involved scalp preparation, lotions, and hot combs, aimed at promoting healthy hair growth.

Malone, preceding Walker, established Poro College in 1918, becoming the first Black-owned cosmetology school that trained thousands of women in hair care and business skills. While their contributions were revolutionary in creating economic opportunities for Black women, their innovations were often developed within a societal context that still favored straightened hair, highlighting the deep-seated influence of [historical beauty](/area/historical-beauty/) ideals.

- **Cultural Meaning of Braids** ❉ In ancient Africa, braids acted as identifiers for age, tribe, marital status, and social standing.

- **Spiritual Significance** ❉ Hair was considered a conduit for spiritual interaction with deities in many African cultures.

- **Cornrows as Resistance** ❉ Enslaved Africans used cornrows to hide rice seeds for survival and to encode escape maps during the transatlantic slave trade.

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

![The photograph elegantly frames a woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-asymmetrical-bob-hairstyle-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey through the historical landscape of textured hair reveals a profound truth: the views of the past are not simply bygone eras; they are living echoes that continue to shape the present reality of textured hair professionals. This journey has not been a gentle stroll; it has been a passage through resilience, oppression, and an enduring quest for self-definition. The “Soul of a Strand” ethos calls us to acknowledge this deep lineage, recognizing that every curl, coil, and wave carries the stories of ancestors, their struggles, their wisdom, and their unwavering spirit. We come to understand that the challenges faced by today’s professionals ❉ from education gaps to ongoing discrimination ❉ are direct descendants of historical narratives that sought to diminish the beauty and inherent value of textured hair.

Yet, within this narrative of constraint lies an equally potent story of enduring heritage, innovation, and reclamation. The professional who cares for textured hair today is not merely styling; they are participating in a timeless ritual, a sacred act of connection that honors a legacy of beauty, strength, and unapologetic identity. In their hands, the threads of the past are rewoven, not to erase what was, but to build a future where every strand stands as a proud declaration of its own vibrant history.

![Bathed in radiant sunlight, these Black and Brown women engage in the practice of styling their diverse textured hair patterns, highlighting ancestral heritage, affirming beauty standards, and demonstrating holistic haircare routines that honor coils, waves, springs, and undulations in a shared setting, reflecting community and self-love.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-brown-women-in-sunlight-styling-natural-textured-hair.jpg)

![This elegant study in monochrome celebrates the inherent beauty of textured hair in full afro form, framed by a minimal aesthetic and conveying the power of cultural identity. Radiant complexion enhances heritage, highlighting beauty standards, and affirming self-expression in the wearer](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-profile-of-woman-with-afro-hairstyle-textured-hair-elegance.jpg)

## References

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

- Essel, O. Q. (2022). Conflicting Tensions in Decolonising Proscribed Afrocentric Hair Beauty Culture Standards in Ghanaian Senior High Schools. _Journal of Pan African Studies_, 15(6), 26-44.

- Patton, T. O. (2006). Hey Girl, Am I More Than My Hair? African American Women and Their Hair. _Communication Studies_, 57(4), 461-479.

- Walker, A. (2000). _On Her Own: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker (Madam C. J. Walker Series)_. Washington Square Press.

- Omotoso, S. A. (2018). Human Hair: Intrigues and Complications. _Journal of Pan African Studies_, 12(8), 1+.

## Glossary

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

Meaning ❉ Beauty Standards often describe societal ideals dictating what is considered appealing, particularly concerning appearance.

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

Meaning ❉ Black Hair History represents the accumulated knowledge and evolving practices surrounding textured hair care and styling across generations and continents, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals.

### [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.

### [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.

### [Annie Turnbo Malone](https://roothea.co/area/annie-turnbo-malone/)

Meaning ❉ Annie Turnbo Malone stands as a foundational figure in the comprehension of textured hair, particularly for Black and mixed-race hair types.

### [Cornrows](https://roothea.co/area/cornrows/)

Meaning ❉ Cornrows denote a particular braiding technique where hair is sectioned precisely and braided flat against the scalp, forming raised rows that trace defined pathways.

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

Meaning ❉ Hair as Cultural Identity signifies the inherent link between one's hair, particularly textured hair, and ancestral lineage.

### [Civil Rights Movement](https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights-movement/)

Meaning ❉ The Civil Rights Movement, a pivotal period of advocacy for equity and justice, gently yet comprehensively reshaped the perception of Black hair, moving beyond inherited societal constraints that once limited its public expression.

### [Hair as Resistance](https://roothea.co/area/hair-as-resistance/)

Meaning ❉ 'Hair as Resistance' signifies the gentle, deliberate choice to wear and care for one's natural textured hair, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals, as an act of personal autonomy and cultural recognition.

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

Meaning ❉ "Textured Hair Heritage" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [Did Ancestral Nutrient Deficiencies Affect Textured Hair Characteristics?](https://roothea.co/question/did-ancestral-nutrient-deficiencies-affect-textured-hair-characteristics/)
![The timeless image captures a tender moment of hair care, blending traditional methods with a holistic approach. Nutrient-rich clay nourishes the child](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-woman-applies-clay-hair-mask-to-childs-braided-spirals.jpg)

### [How Do Internal Lipids Affect Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-internal-lipids-affect-textured-hair/)
![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.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/textured-surface-detail-intricate-porous-structure-volcanic-rock-beauty-heritage.jpg)

### [How Does Natural Sebum Affect Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-natural-sebum-affect-textured-hair/)
![Playful experimentation with bobby pins embodies self-expression through textured hair, embracing both its natural pattern and incorporating modern blonde highlights. This visual moment celebrates individualized styling rooted in heritage while exploring contemporary flair, capturing the essence of personal identity with confidence and freedom.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-woman-with-bobby-pins-styling-natural-textured-hair-and-blonde-highlights.jpg)

### [How Does the Legacy of Colonization Affect Textured Hair Identity Today?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-legacy-of-colonization-affect-textured-hair-identity-today/)
![The portrait captures a profound sense of wisdom and strength emanating from her detailed afro braided hair, reflecting African ancestral beauty traditions. Woven hair ornaments enhance textured elegance, a legacy of holistic cultural expressions and enduring commitment to heritage and wellness.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-braided-afro-textured-hair-and-traditional-adornments.jpg)

### [How Did Ancient Oils Affect Textured Hair Structure?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-oils-affect-textured-hair-structure/)
![The monochrome image captures the strength and beauty of a young Black woman with a short, coiled afro, celebrating her natural hair texture and cultural heritage. Contrasting light and shadow add depth, creating a striking portrait of self-expression and timeless elegance, promoting mindful self care.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-radiant-black-woman-short-afro-natural-hair-style.jpg)

### [How Has Self-Acceptance Transformed Cultural Views on Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-has-self-acceptance-transformed-cultural-views-on-textured-hair/)
![This striking portrait honors the inherent beauty of tightly coiled afro-textured hair, a celebration of natural hair amplified by carefully designed studio lighting and sharp monochromatic contrast. The styling and expression are a visual testament to self-acceptance, heritage and empowered self-expression through expressive coil formations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-woman-with-dense-coiled-textured-hair.jpg)

### [Why Is Shea Butter Traditional for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/why-is-shea-butter-traditional-for-textured-hair/)
![This monochrome portrait encapsulates a mindful moment as the woman applies her holistic treatment, promoting the health and definition of her coils. The photograph celebrates her connection to ancestral self-care practices, highlighting the beauty and strength found in textured hair and its unique spiral patterns.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-woman-applies-holistic-hair-mask-for-natural-coil-definition-black-and.jpg)

### [How Did Tignon Laws Affect Identity?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-tignon-laws-affect-identity/)
![The bristle brush symbolizes a commitment to healthy, textured hair ancestral practices embraced modern wellness through specialized tools, aiding gentle detangling and styling. This thoughtful care fosters both physical and cultural pride, reflecting the unique beauty of inherited hair patterns.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/dense-bristle-brush-for-textured-hair-care-black-and-white.jpg)

### [Why Is Textured Hair Discrimination a Historical Issue for Black Communities?](https://roothea.co/question/why-is-textured-hair-discrimination-a-historical-issue-for-black-communities/)
![Amidst the tranquil setting, a young child with textured spirals finds harmony in nature, their contemplative gaze fixed on a bird](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/child-gazing-at-bird-nest-in-tree-textured-hair-detail-black-and-white.jpg)

---

## Raw Schema Data

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "name": "Home",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "name": "Question",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "name": "Why Do Historical Views Affect Textured Hair Professionals?",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/why-do-historical-views-affect-textured-hair-professionals/"
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "Article",
    "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/why-do-historical-views-affect-textured-hair-professionals/"
    },
    "headline": "Why Do Historical Views Affect Textured Hair Professionals? ❉ Question",
    "description": "Historical views deeply influence textured hair professionals through inherited biases, beauty standards, and systemic discrimination. ❉ Question",
    "url": "https://roothea.co/question/why-do-historical-views-affect-textured-hair-professionals/",
    "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Roothea",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/author/roothea/"
    },
    "datePublished": "2025-06-02T22:53:51+08:00",
    "dateModified": "2026-01-06T22:58:58+08:00",
    "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Roothea"
    },
    "articleSection": [
        "Question"
    ],
    "image": {
        "@type": "ImageObject",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-an-african-american-woman-with-locs-and-shadow-play.jpg",
        "caption": "This evocative portrait of a woman adorned with locs captures the interplay of light and shadow, accentuating both strength and vulnerability. The image honors the heritage of textured hair while inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of identity, beauty standards, and the ongoing dialogue around hair expression."
    }
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "FAQPage",
    "mainEntity": [
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Did Enslavement Alter Perceptions of Hair?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "The system of slavery twisted the narrative around textured hair. It shifted from being a vibrant symbol of identity and spiritual connection to a marker of perceived inferiority. The \"Good Hair\" study, for instance, found that natural afro-textured hair continues to be perceived as unprofessional and unattractive by people regardless of their race or gender, a bias rooted deeply in this historical conditioning. (Lukate, cited in Kilburn & Strode, 2021) This historical devaluation laid a troubling foundation for textured hair professionals, forcing them to operate within a system that often subtly or overtly promoted an aesthetic alien to the inherent nature of their clients' hair."
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Do Historical Beauty Standards Impact Modern Professional Training?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "The professional landscape for textured hair artists has long been shaped by standards that historically prioritized straight hair. Beauty schools and cosmetology board regulations often did not adequately address the unique needs and styling techniques for textured hair. Until relatively recently, the curricula in many institutions were rooted in practices and understandings primarily applicable to European hair textures. This created a knowledge gap, pushing professionals to learn about textured hair through informal channels or self-education. Even after segregation formally ended, many salons and schools continued to cater predominantly to one racial group, perpetuating a divide in expertise and perception."
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Do Historical Biases Continue to Shape Professional Cosmetology Standards?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "The influence of historical views permeates even the technical and regulatory aspects of the cosmetology profession. Consider the historical segregation of beauty schools and state cosmetology boards. While integration has occurred, the foundational curriculum in many beauty programs has only slowly begun to adapt to the diverse needs of textured hair. This historical bias means that many professionals, particularly those of African descent, have had to seek specialized training outside of mainstream institutions, often through independent workshops or self-study, to master the nuances of textured hair care and styling. This creates an uneven playing field in professional development and recognition."
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/why-do-historical-views-affect-textured-hair-professionals/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "name": "Textured Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cornrows/",
            "name": "Cornrows",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cornrows/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cornrows denote a particular braiding technique where hair is sectioned precisely and braided flat against the scalp, forming raised rows that trace defined pathways."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric beauty standards denote a historical leaning towards hair characteristics commonly found within European lineages, such as straightness, fineness, or gentle waves, alongside particular color and density ideals."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/texturism/",
            "name": "Texturism",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/texturism/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Texturism gently clarifies a particular bias observed within the vibrant spectrum of textured hair, often favoring curl patterns perceived as looser over those with tighter coils or dense curl formations."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers/",
            "name": "Chemical Relaxers",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/chemical-relaxers/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Chemical Relaxers represent a category of strong alkaline agents, typically lye- or no-lye based, meticulously formulated to permanently reconfigure the natural curl pattern of highly textured hair by breaking and reforming its disulfide bonds within the hair's cortex."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "name": "Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights-movement/",
            "name": "Civil Rights Movement",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights-movement/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Civil Rights Movement, a pivotal period of advocacy for equity and justice, gently yet comprehensively reshaped the perception of Black hair, moving beyond inherited societal constraints that once limited its public expression."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/",
            "name": "Natural Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural Hair describes hair that maintains its original structural configuration, untouched by chemical processes like relaxers, texturizers, or permanent color that alter its natural coil, curl, or wave definition."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "name": "Black Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/central-centrifugal-cicatricial-alopecia/",
            "name": "Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/central-centrifugal-cicatricial-alopecia/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA) represents a distinct follicular response primarily observed within the crown area of textured hair, particularly among individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Historical Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical beauty standards denote the prevailing aesthetic ideals for hair appearance across various periods, which frequently positioned textures inherent to Black and mixed-race hair outside the dominant aesthetic, leading to practices that often compromised its natural vitality."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/traction-alopecia/",
            "name": "Traction Alopecia",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/traction-alopecia/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Traction Alopecia gently calls our attention to a form of hair thinning that arises from consistent, prolonged mechanical stress on hair follicles, a consideration particularly pertinent for individuals with coils, kinks, and waves."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/annie-turnbo-malone/",
            "name": "Annie Turnbo Malone",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/annie-turnbo-malone/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Annie Turnbo Malone stands as a foundational figure in the comprehension of textured hair, particularly for Black and mixed-race hair types."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/madam-c-j-walker/",
            "name": "Madam C.J. Walker",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/madam-c-j-walker/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Madam C.J."
        },
        {
            "@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/historical-beauty/",
            "name": "Historical Beauty",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-beauty/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical Beauty, when considering textured hair, signifies the considered acknowledgment of enduring wisdom concerning hair structure and its gentle care."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Beauty Standards often describe societal ideals dictating what is considered appealing, particularly concerning appearance."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-history/",
            "name": "Black Hair History",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-history/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair History represents the accumulated knowledge and evolving practices surrounding textured hair care and styling across generations and continents, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-as-cultural-identity/",
            "name": "Hair as Cultural Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-as-cultural-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair as Cultural Identity signifies the inherent link between one's hair, particularly textured hair, and ancestral lineage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-as-resistance/",
            "name": "Hair as Resistance",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-as-resistance/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ 'Hair as Resistance' signifies the gentle, deliberate choice to wear and care for one's natural textured hair, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals, as an act of personal autonomy and cultural recognition."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Textured Hair Heritage\" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/why-do-historical-views-affect-textured-hair-professionals/
