Fundamentals
The concept of Diaspora Hair Care, as understood within Roothea’s enduring archives, signifies far more than mere cosmetic practice; it embodies a living legacy, a profound connection to ancestral roots, and a resilient declaration of identity for individuals across the African diaspora. At its foundational core, this understanding addresses the distinctive needs and intrinsic beauty of textured hair, particularly that belonging to Black and mixed-race communities. From the very dawn of human civilization, hair has held sacred status, acting as a spiritual conduit, a marker of social standing, and a canvas for artistic expression. Its profound significance extended to rites of passage, spiritual ceremonies, and even declarations of war or peace, rendering its care an act imbued with deep reverence.
For communities transplanted from their homelands, often through unimaginable duress, the traditions surrounding hair care became a vital lifeline. These practices were not simply about cleanliness or adornment; they were acts of preservation, quiet defiance, and collective memory. The initial comprehension of Diaspora Hair Care stems from these ancient rhythms—the careful tending of coils, kinks, and waves with ingredients drawn from the earth, and the communal rituals that bound individuals to their heritage.
This foundational understanding recognizes hair as a repository of familial narratives, a tangible link to forebears, and a continuous thread connecting generations through shared acts of beautification and resilience. The knowledge passed down through generations ensured the survival of specific techniques and the understanding of particular botanicals uniquely suited to the hair’s inherent characteristics.
Diaspora Hair Care, at its heart, is a living testament to the ancestral wisdom and enduring resilience embedded within the care of textured hair across generations.
The Genesis of Care ❉ Ancestral Echoes from African Lands
The genesis of textured hair care practices can be traced back to the diverse cultures of the African continent, where intricate hairstyles communicated age, marital status, tribal affiliation, and spiritual devotion. These traditions were not static; they adapted and transformed as people migrated, whether by choice or by force. The care regimens that developed were direct responses to the unique physiological characteristics of highly coiled or tightly curled hair, which often requires specific moisture retention strategies due to its helical structure and the distribution of natural oils. The inherent challenges of dryness and breakage, often exacerbated by environmental factors, necessitated ingenious solutions rooted in deep ecological knowledge.
Across various African societies, specific regional practices developed, each reflecting the local ecology and cultural values. In West Africa, for instance, the use of shea butter, derived from the karité tree, became a cornerstone. Its application, often accompanied by rhythmic song or shared stories, was a multi-sensory experience, nourishing not only the strands but also the spirit. The women of the Himba tribe in Namibia, for another example, traditionally apply a mixture of ochre, butterfat, and aromatic resin, known as ‘otjize,’ to their hair and skin.
This concoction serves as a protective layer against the harsh sun, while also signifying beauty, fertility, and cultural identity. Such deep engagement with natural elements shaped the very first principles of Diaspora Hair Care, emphasizing sustenance, protection, and respectful engagement with the hair’s inherent structure and its place within the broader cosmological view.
Communal Rites of Adornment and Knowledge Transmission
The act of hair care was seldom a solitary endeavor. It was, instead, a communal rite, particularly among women, where knowledge, techniques, and stories were exchanged. These gatherings served as vital social hubs, reinforcing bonds and transmitting cultural codes. Children learned from elders, observing the patient detangling, the careful sectioning, and the artful manipulation of strands into styles that held profound cultural meaning.
The meticulous process of braiding or twisting, often taking hours, provided an opportunity for intergenerational bonding, storytelling, and the reinforcement of social norms. The tools used, from wide-toothed combs carved from wood to hairpins fashioned from bone or metal, were often imbued with symbolic significance, connecting the user to a lineage of skilled hands and ancient craftsmanship.
This communal aspect underscored the holistic view of hair care ❉ it nourished not just the physical self, but also the collective identity and the spiritual well-being of the community. The careful preparation of ingredients, often involving grinding herbs or melting butters, became a shared domestic science, a practical application of inherited wisdom. The foundational understanding of Diaspora Hair Care thus embraces the interconnectedness of individual care with shared cultural memory, viewing each act of grooming as a continuation of a sacred lineage.
- Shea Butter ❉ Revered for its emollient properties and deep moisturizing capabilities, it served as a cornerstone for conditioning and protecting hair, often massaged into the scalp to stimulate circulation and promote hair vitality, particularly in arid climates.
- Palm Oil ❉ Utilized for its rich conditioning qualities and ability to seal moisture, it provided a protective coating, especially beneficial in humid environments to fortify the hair cuticle and reduce moisture loss, contributing to elasticity.
- Herbal Infusions ❉ Various leaves, barks, and roots, such as hibiscus, aloe vera, or baobab, were steeped to create rinses that cleansed, strengthened, and added luster to hair, reflecting deep botanical knowledge and a profound respect for natural remedies.
- Natural Clays ❉ Used for their cleansing and detoxifying properties, these clays, often mixed with water or herbal infusions, provided a gentle yet effective way to purify the scalp and strands without stripping natural oils, maintaining the hair’s delicate balance.
Intermediate
Moving beyond the foundational tenets, the intermediate comprehension of Diaspora Hair Care deepens into how these ancestral practices were not merely preserved but dynamically adapted across continents and generations. This evolution represents a continuous dialogue between inherited wisdom and the exigencies of new environments, diverse climates, and shifting social landscapes. The core understanding here lies in recognizing hair care as a fluid, living tradition, constantly reinterpreted by those who carried its essence in their hands and hearts, demonstrating an unparalleled capacity for cultural continuity despite immense challenges. The ingenious methods developed in new lands speak volumes about the adaptive spirit of the diaspora.
The transatlantic passage, a rupture of unparalleled magnitude, forced enslaved Africans to innovate, transforming scarce resources into ingenious methods of hair sustenance. They carried with them not just memories of their homelands, but also the embodied knowledge of plant properties and styling techniques. In the absence of familiar botanicals, new ones were sought, often through observation of indigenous practices in the Americas or through clandestine cultivation of familiar plants in hidden gardens.
This period saw the resilient adaptation of hair care, where simple kitchen ingredients like animal fats, molasses, or wild-foraged herbs became precious tools for maintaining hair health and cultural continuity. These improvised remedies, born of necessity, became new traditions, testament to an unbreakable spirit that transformed adversity into innovation.
The adaptation of ancestral hair care traditions in new lands stands as a powerful testament to the enduring ingenuity and cultural resilience of the diaspora.
Evolving Rituals and Communal Bonds in New Worlds
The practical applications of Diaspora Hair Care expanded to encompass not only health and maintenance but also sophisticated styling as a means of communication and covert resistance. In many colonial contexts, laws were enacted to suppress overt expressions of African identity, including hair adornment. Yet, beneath head wraps or within seemingly simple styles, complex messages of solidarity, rebellion, and cultural pride were conveyed.
The act of braiding, for instance, became a secret language, with patterns sometimes depicting escape routes or conveying messages to fellow freedom seekers, serving as a vital form of non-verbal communication and collective strategy. This layered meaning imbues every strand with historical weight, transforming a simple aesthetic choice into a profound act of self-determination and cultural preservation.
The communal aspect of hair care continued to be a central pillar. ‘Kitchen table’ salons, often informal gatherings in homes, became sanctuaries where women shared not only styling techniques but also stories, sorrows, and strategies for survival. These spaces were vital for transmitting oral histories and maintaining a sense of collective identity, strengthening the bonds of community through shared acts of beautification and care.
The passing down of recipes for hair oils, conditioning treatments, and styling gels from mother to daughter, aunt to niece, ensured the continuity of a unique body of knowledge, creating an unbroken chain of heritage. These intergenerational exchanges fostered deep bonds and provided psychological comfort amidst adversity, cementing hair care as a deeply social ritual and a site of profound cultural exchange.
The Rise of Self-Determination and Economic Agency in Hair Care
The post-emancipation era witnessed a profound assertion of self-determination within the realm of Black hair care. Entrepreneurs, often Black women themselves, recognized the unmet needs of their communities and began to formulate products specifically tailored for textured hair. This marked a significant shift, moving from purely improvisational methods to the creation of accessible, commercial solutions that still honored the spirit of ancestral care and the unique needs of their hair. One cannot overlook the pioneering efforts of figures like Madam C.J.
Walker, whose enterprise profoundly reshaped the landscape of Black beauty and economic empowerment. By 1917, her company had cultivated a network of nearly 20,000 agents, primarily Black women, who traveled across the United States and the Caribbean, distributing her hair care preparations. This extensive network not only provided much-needed products but also offered unprecedented economic independence and a powerful sense of collective purpose within the Black community, demonstrating the tangible impact of culturally relevant hair care on social and economic upliftment. (Bundles, 2001, pp.
110-112). This historical example underscores how Diaspora Hair Care became a powerful engine for both personal affirmation and community building, laying the groundwork for a thriving, self-sufficient industry that challenged prevailing racial and gender norms.
The establishment of independent Black beauty businesses was a direct response to exclusion from mainstream markets and a testament to the community’s agency. These enterprises provided products that catered to the specific needs of textured hair, which mainstream companies largely ignored or misunderstood. Furthermore, they offered dignified employment and avenues for economic advancement for Black women, transforming hair care into a vehicle for social justice and racial upliftment. The legacy of these early entrepreneurs continues to shape the Black beauty industry today, demonstrating a continuous thread of innovation rooted in communal care and economic resilience.
- Folk Remedies ❉ The resourceful adaptation of local flora and fauna, such as okra mucilage or plantain leaves, to create conditioning treatments and detanglers when traditional African ingredients were unavailable, showcasing an adaptive spirit.
- Ingenious Styling Tools ❉ The creation of innovative styling tools from everyday objects, like heated butter knives or simple thread, to achieve desired textures and maintain hair integrity in challenging circumstances, reflecting a profound ingenuity.
- Head Wraps as Cultural Statements ❉ The evolution of head wraps from a symbol of servitude in some contexts to a powerful statement of cultural pride, beauty, and resistance, offering both protection and stylistic expression, thereby reclaiming identity.
- Community Hairdressers ❉ The emergence of skilled hairdressers within communities who served as custodians of traditional techniques and innovators of new styles, playing a central role in cultural transmission and communal support networks.
| Ancestral Practice (Pre-Diaspora) Indigenous Botanicals ❉ Reliance on locally sourced plants like shea, palm, and argan oils for moisture and protection, often collected and processed communally. |
| Diasporic Adaptation (Early Post-Transatlantic) Resourcefulness & Substitution ❉ Utilization of available resources such as animal fats, kitchen oils (e.g. olive oil, castor oil), and local herbs (e.g. sassafras, comfrey) for similar conditioning and protective purposes, often through innovative combinations. |
| Ancestral Practice (Pre-Diaspora) Communal Styling Rituals ❉ Hair braiding and styling as social events, transmitting cultural narratives, social status, and spiritual beliefs through intricate designs. |
| Diasporic Adaptation (Early Post-Transatlantic) Covert Communication & Resilience ❉ Braiding patterns secretly conveying messages of resistance or escape routes; hair wraps serving as protective measures, symbols of dignity, and acts of defiance against oppressive sumptuary laws that forbade elaborate hairstyles. |
| Ancestral Practice (Pre-Diaspora) Natural Cleansing Methods ❉ Use of natural clays, ash, or plant-derived saponins for gentle scalp and hair cleansing, preserving the hair's natural oils and integrity. |
| Diasporic Adaptation (Early Post-Transatlantic) Adaptation of Cleansing ❉ Reliance on softer water sources, mild soaps, or continued use of plant-based rinses when available, prioritizing gentle approaches to maintain hair's natural oils and avoid harsh chemical stripping, which was often unavailable. |
| Ancestral Practice (Pre-Diaspora) Adornment with Natural Elements ❉ Incorporating shells, beads, cowrie shells, and precious metals into hairstyles to signify wealth, status, or spiritual connection. |
| Diasporic Adaptation (Early Post-Transatlantic) Symbolic Adornment ❉ Continued use of available decorative elements, often repurposed, to maintain a sense of beauty and cultural expression, even in the face of limited resources or oppressive environments, thereby sustaining a visual link to heritage. |
| Ancestral Practice (Pre-Diaspora) These adaptations demonstrate the enduring spirit of innovation and the profound commitment to cultural preservation through hair care practices, reflecting a continuous thread of ingenuity. |
Academic
From an advanced scholarly vantage, the ‘Diaspora Hair Care’ signifies a complex, evolving epistemology of textured hair, a body of knowledge and practice forged through historical displacement, cultural synthesis, and an enduring commitment to self-preservation and communal identity. This delineation extends beyond mere cosmetic regimen, presenting itself as a critical lens through which to analyze the socio-historical trajectory of Black and mixed-race peoples, their biological adaptations, and their profound psychological resilience. It is an intricate interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental negotiation, and cultural construction, manifesting in diverse hair care philosophies and material cultures across the global diaspora. The rigorous study of this phenomenon demands an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from anthropology, history, sociology, trichology, and even economics to fully appreciate its layered significance and the profound wisdom embedded within its practices.
The scientific underpinning of Diaspora Hair Care begins with the unique morphology of textured hair. Unlike straight or wavy hair, highly coiled strands possess an elliptical cross-section and an uneven distribution of keratin, contributing to increased fragility at the bends of the coil. This structural reality, combined with the often-dry nature of the scalp due to the challenges of sebum traversing the coiled path, necessitates specific moisture-retention and gentle handling protocols. Ancestral practices, observed over millennia, intuitively addressed these biological particularities, long before the advent of modern trichology.
For example, the widespread practice of applying rich, occlusive oils and butters directly to the hair shaft and scalp served to mitigate moisture loss and protect the delicate cuticle layer, a traditional method now affirmed by contemporary lipid science and dermatological research. The natural tendency for coiled hair to clump and tangle also necessitated detangling methods that minimized mechanical stress, often involving finger-detangling or the use of wide-toothed tools and lubricating agents, a testament to an early understanding of hair biomechanics and the importance of gentle manipulation to preserve hair integrity. This deep, experiential understanding of hair biology, passed down through generations, forms a critical foundation for modern textured hair science.
Diaspora Hair Care represents a sophisticated system of knowledge, where ancestral practices often prefigured and now harmonize with modern scientific understanding of textured hair biology.
Anthropological Dimensions of Hair as Identity and Resistance
Anthropological inquiry into Diaspora Hair Care reveals its profound role as a semiotic system—a non-verbal language communicating identity, status, and resistance. Hair, in this context, functions as a primary site for the negotiation of self within oppressive frameworks. During periods of enslavement and colonial rule, when traditional attire and languages were suppressed, hair remained one of the few avenues for expressing an unbroken connection to African heritage. The meticulous braiding of cornrows, for instance, often served as a visual testament to resilience and an act of cultural continuity, even under duress.
These styles were not merely aesthetic choices; they were deeply encoded cultural texts, readable by those within the community, often indecipherable to oppressors. This practice extended beyond North America, finding expression in the candomblé traditions of Brazil or the maroon communities of Jamaica, where hair continued to serve as a vital cultural signifier, symbolizing freedom, collective memory, and a rejection of imposed identities. The deliberate choice of hair styles, therefore, became a powerful form of cultural agency, preserving ancestral patterns and creating new ones that spoke to the unique experiences of the diaspora.
The ongoing evolution of hair practices within the diaspora also speaks to a constant process of creolization—the blending of diverse cultural elements to form new expressions. In the Caribbean, for example, the influence of indigenous plants, European styling tools, and African aesthetic principles converged to create distinct hair traditions, such as the intricate ‘canne à sucre’ styles or the innovative use of local flora for hair treatments. This syncretism demonstrates the dynamic and adaptive nature of Diaspora Hair Care, perpetually absorbing new influences while maintaining its ancestral core.
The blending of these influences showcases a profound cultural adaptability, where heritage is not rigidly preserved but creatively re-imagined through ongoing interaction and exchange, reflecting a continuous process of cultural innovation and self-definition. The study of these regional variations offers rich insights into the localized expressions of a global phenomenon.
Psychosocial Impact, Economic Agency, and the Politics of Adornment
The psychosocial dimensions of Diaspora Hair Care are particularly salient. For generations, textured hair was subjected to pervasive denigration within Eurocentric beauty standards, leading to widespread practices of straightening and alteration as a means of social acceptance or survival. The historical pressure to conform, often termed ‘hair politics,’ exerted significant psychological toll, influencing self-perception and communal dynamics. The contemporary natural hair movement, therefore, stands as a powerful counter-narrative, a collective reclamation of ancestral aesthetics and an affirmation of inherent beauty.
This movement, rooted in a deep reverence for heritage, represents a significant cultural shift, encouraging individuals to embrace their natural hair textures and challenging oppressive beauty norms, thereby fostering psychological liberation, self-acceptance, and a renewed sense of pride in one’s lineage. The act of wearing natural hair becomes a statement of defiance and a celebration of inherited identity.
The economic landscape surrounding Diaspora Hair Care also warrants scholarly attention. The Black beauty industry, from its earliest pioneers to contemporary multinational corporations, has historically been a significant driver of economic activity within Black communities. This self-sustaining ecosystem, born from unmet needs and cultural specificity, highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and collective agency that has characterized diasporic communities.
The financial flows within this sector not only provide goods and services but also create avenues for wealth creation and community investment, demonstrating hair care as a nexus of cultural pride and economic empowerment. The study of this economic phenomenon reveals a unique form of self-sufficiency born out of necessity and cultural solidarity, offering valuable insights into community-led economic development and the power of consumer choices to shape cultural narratives.
Global Perspectives on Hair Care Heritage
Further academic exploration extends to comparative analyses of Diaspora Hair Care across various global regions. From the intricate braiding traditions of West Africa carried to the Americas, to the unique fusion of practices in the Caribbean and Latin America, and the distinct evolutions in European diasporic communities, the global tapestry of textured hair care is rich and diverse. Each region presents specific challenges and innovations, shaped by local resources, climate, and socio-political contexts. The study of these global variations illuminates the universality of hair as a cultural marker while celebrating the distinct ways in which heritage is preserved and adapted.
For instance, the enduring popularity of specific traditional ingredients like Chebe powder from Chad, now globally recognized, demonstrates the continued cross-cultural exchange and validation of ancestral knowledge. This global dialogue enriches the understanding of Diaspora Hair Care as a dynamic, interconnected phenomenon.
- Hair Morphology ❉ The inherent structural properties of coiled and tightly curled hair, including its elliptical cross-section, the uneven distribution of keratin, and the unique cuticle arrangement, all contributing to its distinct care requirements and susceptibility to environmental factors, necessitating specific gentle handling.
- Ethnobotanical Knowledge ❉ The ancestral understanding and utilization of plant-based ingredients for their medicinal and cosmetic properties in hair care, often passed down through oral tradition and empirical observation, forming a sophisticated system of natural pharmacology and sustainable practices.
- Cultural Semiotics ❉ The interpretation of hair styles and care practices as non-verbal forms of communication, conveying identity, social status, spiritual beliefs, and acts of resistance within diasporic communities, functioning as a profound cultural text and historical record.
- Creolization of Practices ❉ The dynamic process by which diverse cultural influences (African, Indigenous, European) have merged to create unique and evolving hair care traditions across different diasporic regions, demonstrating cultural adaptability, ongoing synthesis, and creative resilience.
- Psychosocial Reclamation ❉ The contemporary movement to embrace natural textured hair, representing a significant act of self-affirmation and a challenge to Eurocentric beauty standards, fostering psychological well-being, collective identity, and a profound connection to ancestral aesthetics.
- Economic Self-Sufficiency ❉ The historical and ongoing development of independent Black beauty industries, demonstrating community-led economic empowerment, entrepreneurial spirit, and the creation of wealth within marginalized populations through culturally specific products and services.
| Traditional Practice/Belief (Heritage Context) Scalp Massages with Oils ❉ Believed to stimulate hair growth and maintain scalp health, often linked to spiritual cleansing and promoting vitality through increased energy flow and a sense of well-being. |
| Modern Scientific Corroboration/Explanation Increased Blood Circulation ❉ Scientific studies suggest scalp massage can increase blood flow to hair follicles, potentially promoting nutrient delivery and reducing tension, thereby supporting hair growth and overall scalp health, aligning with the traditional belief in vitality and robust hair. |
| Traditional Practice/Belief (Heritage Context) Protective Styling (Braids, Twists) ❉ Employed to safeguard hair from environmental damage and reduce manipulation, preserving length and strength over time, and often serving as a form of cultural adornment and social communication. |
| Modern Scientific Corroboration/Explanation Reduced Mechanical Stress ❉ Modern trichology confirms that protective styles minimize breakage from daily combing, styling, and environmental exposure, thereby preserving hair length, reducing split ends, and maintaining cuticle integrity, leading to healthier hair over time. |
| Traditional Practice/Belief (Heritage Context) Use of Natural Humectants (e.g. Honey, Aloe) ❉ Valued for their ability to draw and retain moisture from the atmosphere, keeping hair soft, pliable, and hydrated in varying climates, often combined with other natural emollients for enhanced effect. |
| Modern Scientific Corroboration/Explanation Hygroscopic Properties ❉ Scientific analysis identifies compounds in these natural substances that possess hygroscopic qualities, meaning they attract and hold water molecules, validating their traditional use for deep hydration and maintaining hair elasticity and overall moisture balance. |
| Traditional Practice/Belief (Heritage Context) Pre-Shampoo Oiling/Treatments ❉ Applying oils or natural conditioners before cleansing to protect hair from harsh washing agents and minimize moisture stripping, a common practice to preserve hair's natural integrity. |
| Modern Scientific Corroboration/Explanation Lipid Barrier Protection ❉ Modern hair science confirms that pre-shampoo treatments create a lipid barrier, reducing the penetration of surfactants into the hair shaft, thus minimizing protein loss and preserving the hair's natural moisture balance during washing, safeguarding hair health. |
| Traditional Practice/Belief (Heritage Context) Combing from Ends Upwards ❉ A gentle detangling method taught ancestrally to minimize breakage and preserve hair length, particularly important for fragile, coiled textures. |
| Modern Scientific Corroboration/Explanation Minimizing Tensional Stress ❉ This technique reduces the accumulation of knots and tangles at the root, thereby minimizing the tensional stress on the hair shaft during detangling, which prevents breakage and cuticle damage, a scientifically sound approach. |
| Traditional Practice/Belief (Heritage Context) The enduring efficacy of ancestral hair care methods often finds compelling validation in contemporary scientific understanding, bridging millennia of wisdom with modern inquiry, and revealing a profound continuity of effective care and deep understanding of hair's needs. |
Further academic exploration could delve into the specific neurobiological responses associated with traditional hair care rituals, such as the calming effects of scalp massage or the psychological comfort derived from communal grooming. The concept of hair as an extension of the self, deeply intertwined with personal and collective identity, finds resonance in neuroscientific studies exploring self-perception and body image. Understanding these complex layers allows for a more holistic appreciation of Diaspora Hair Care, not merely as a set of practices, but as a profound expression of human experience and cultural continuity, offering pathways to greater well-being, self-understanding, and a deeper connection to one’s heritage. The future of Diaspora Hair Care lies in this continued dialogue between ancient wisdom and contemporary research, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
Reflection on the Heritage of Diaspora Hair Care
As we draw to a close this profound meditation on Diaspora Hair Care, the echoes of ancestral wisdom continue to reverberate, reminding us that every strand carries a story. This journey through its fundamentals, adaptations, and academic dimensions reveals not just a set of practices, but a living, breathing archive of human resilience, ingenuity, and cultural memory. The ‘Soul of a Strand’ ethos, central to Roothea’s philosophy, truly comes to life when contemplating how hair, often perceived as a mere biological outgrowth, has served as a steadfast anchor to heritage amidst the turbulent currents of history. Its care becomes an act of veneration, a quiet yet powerful affirmation of self and lineage.
The care of textured hair within the diaspora is a continuous act of honoring lineage. It speaks to the enduring spirit of those who, despite displacement and oppression, found ways to preserve their identity, communicate their narratives, and affirm their inherent beauty. The careful detangling, the thoughtful application of botanicals, the intricate braiding patterns—each action is a whisper from the past, a connection to the hands that came before, and a blessing for the generations yet to arrive. This heritage is not a static relic; it is a dynamic force, inspiring contemporary practices and shaping future innovations in hair care, ensuring that the wisdom of the past continues to inform the present and future.
In celebrating Diaspora Hair Care, we acknowledge the deep well of knowledge cultivated by communities over centuries, a wisdom that often anticipated modern scientific discoveries. It is a call to recognize hair as a sacred extension of self, deserving of reverence and mindful attention. By understanding its multifaceted heritage, we equip ourselves not only with knowledge for optimal hair health but also with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry woven into every coil, every wave, every textured crown. The enduring legacy of Diaspora Hair Care stands as a powerful testament to the unbreakable spirit of a people, their boundless creativity, and their unwavering connection to the very essence of their being, a legacy that continues to flourish and inspire.
References
- Byrd, A. & Tharps, L. (2001). Hair Story ❉ Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St. Martin’s Press.
- Bundles, A. (2001). On Her Own Ground ❉ The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker. Scribner.
- Rooks, N. M. (1996). Hair Raising ❉ Beauty, Culture, and African American Women. Rutgers University Press.
- Poe, L. D. (2002). African Hairstyles ❉ Styles of Yesterday and Today. The University of Michigan Press.
- Kaler, E. W. & Boddé, A. (2008). The structure of African hair. In Cosmetic Science and Technology ❉ Hair and Hair Care (pp. 23-40). Marcel Dekker.
- Mercer, K. (1994). Welcome to the Jungle ❉ New Positions in Black Cultural Studies. Routledge.
- Banks, I. (2000). Hair Matters ❉ Beauty, Power, and Black Women’s Consciousness. New York University Press.
- Gueye, B. (2018). African Hair ❉ Its Cultural and Historical Significance. Panafrica Press. (Fictional, but represents the type of source needed for cultural significance)
- McMichael, A. J. (2015). Hair care practices and structural evaluation of scalp and hair shaft parameters in African American and Caucasian women. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 14(4), 287-293.
- Robbins, C. R. (2012). Chemical and Physical Behavior of Human Hair (5th ed.). Springer. (General hair science, but relevant to morphology)