Just like many traits, our hair's curliness is largely determined by genetics, (thanks mum and dad). But beyond genetics, there are other key factors influencing our hair's texture.

All hair, whether straight or curly, consists of two main components: the shaft and the follicle. The shaft refers to the visible strands, while the follicle resides within the scalp.

Follicle Shape:
The shape of the follicle plays a crucial role in determining hair texture. Straight hair follicles are typically round, while curly hair follicles tend to be oval-shaped. The flatter the oval, the curlier the hair. Additionally, the angle at which the follicle tunnels into the scalp affects curliness. Straight hair follicles grow vertically, whereas curved follicles lead to hair that curls as it grows. This curving feature of curly hair makes it more challenging for natural oils (sebum) to travel along the hair shaft, resulting in drier curls.

Hair Shaft and Protein Bonding:
The hair shaft's role is primarily defined by protein bonding, specifically involving keratin. Hair is composed mainly of keratin, a fibrous protein containing cysteine amino acids that form strong bonds with other sulfur-containing molecules. Curly hair tends to have more of these bonds compared to straight hair. This increased bonding is facilitated by the shape and angle of the follicle, which brings different parts of the hair strand closer together, allowing more bonds to form. Perms and relaxing treatments alter hair structure by manipulating these disulfide bonds in keratin. Straightening treatments break these bonds, while perms encourage their formation to achieve curls.

Understanding these factors can empower you to better care for your curls, ensuring they remain healthy and vibrant.