Coils & Curls: A Mathematical Tapestry of Black Hair
December 2023
New to Keratin? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → 
Studysummary This paper explores the diverse patterns and social significance of Black hair, approaching it as an art form, mathematical pattern, and ethnomathematic entity, and seeks to dispel myths while highlighting its vast possibilities. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The document discusses the diverse range of patterns and textures inherent in black hair, which is determined by the shape of the hair follicle and the bonding of amino acids in the protein keratin. The paper explores black hair from various perspectives, including its roots, historical significance, societal perceptions, and its role as a form of style and expression. It approaches black hair as an art form, a mathematical pattern, an algorithmic growth process, and an ethnomathematical entity, aiming to dispel myths and highlight the myriad of possibilities that black hair represents.
