The curliness of black hair is primarily determined by the shape of the hair follicle.
Hair Follicle Shape and Hair Curls
The shape of the hair follicle plays a crucial role in determining hair texture. This is a key factor in why some people have straight hair, while others have curly or kinky hair.
- Circular Follicles: Hair growing from circular-shaped follicles tends to be straight.
- Elongated, Oval Follicles: Hair growing from elongated, oval-shaped follicles produces curlier hair. The more elliptical the follicle, the tighter the curl.
This difference in follicle shape directly influences how the hair shaft grows out of the scalp. The elongated, oval shape of the follicle in individuals with curly hair causes the hair strand to grow out in a spiral or curved pattern, resulting in curls.
Genetics and Hair Texture
It's important to note that hair follicle shape, and thus hair texture, is largely determined by genetics. Genetic inheritance dictates the shape of the hair follicles, influencing whether a person will have straight, wavy, curly, or kinky hair. This genetic influence explains the prevalence of curly hair within certain populations.
Variations in Curl Patterns
The degree of curliness can vary significantly even within individuals of the same ethnic background. This variation stems from differences in the precise shape and size of individual hair follicles. Factors like hormonal changes and external influences (such as styling practices) can also affect the appearance of curls.
