TLDR Human hair can be classified into eight types based on physical features, not ethnicity.
The study aimed to develop a more scientific and factual approach to classifying human hair based on physical features rather than traditional ethnic categories. Researchers analyzed hair from 1,442 subjects across 18 countries, using three descriptors: curve diameter (CD), curl index (i), and number of waves (w). This method resulted in a classification system with eight well-defined hair categories, providing a more objective and reliable standard for use in cosmetic and forensic sciences. The new classification also aimed to explore whether hair shape diversity aligns with continuous geographic and historical patterns of human genetic variation or shows significant discontinuities between large human subdivisions.
73 citations,
June 2003 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Dermatologists need to understand African American hair-care practices to better treat their hair and scalp disorders.
78 citations,
June 2003 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Curly hair shape is determined by the hair bulb.
27 citations,
September 1988 in “PubMed” Hair follicle shape determines hair type: curly, straight, or in-between.
53 citations,
July 2016 in “Cosmetics” Future hair cosmetics will be safer and more effective.
Afro-textured hair is more fragile and prone to certain scalp conditions, requiring careful treatment and more research for effective management.
14 citations,
May 2017 in “InTech eBooks” Hair is important for protection, social interaction, and temperature control, and is made of a growth cycle-influenced follicle and a complex shaft.
A new system for classifying curly hair types using precise measurements can improve hair care products and cultural inclusion.
1 citations,
August 2020 in “Food Research” Plant extracts like Avicennia marina, Boehmeria nipononivea, and Camellia sinensis could potentially treat hair loss with fewer side effects than synthetic drugs.
