Ever wondered why some people have bouncy, springy curls while others have straight locks? The secret lies in the marvelous world of hair science, where genetics, biology, and a little bit of physics come together to create the curly wonder. Let’s break it down into three key points that explain why hair is curly.
First and foremost, your curls are determined by your genetics. The texture of your hair is largely inherited, meaning if your parents or grandparents had curls, there’s a good chance you might, too. The shape of your hair follicles, which are tiny, tube-like structures in your skin from which your hair grows, plays a crucial role in this.
Straight hair grows out of round follicles, while curly hair emerges from oval or asymmetrical ones. The more oval the follicle, the curlier the hair. Imagine squeezing a garden hose while water flows through it – the more you squeeze, the more the water twists and turns. Similarly, as your hair grows out of an oval follicle, it takes on a spiral shape, resulting in curls. Iit’s all in your DNA!
Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, and how these proteins bond together determines whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly. In curly hair, the keratin proteins form stronger disulfide bonds, which are chemical connections that link the hair’s molecules in a specific way.
These bonds create tension that causes the hair to bend and curl. The more bonds there are, and the tighter they are, the curlier your hair will be. It’s like a group of friends holding hands and forming a circle – the tighter they hold on, the smaller and curlier the circle becomes. So, those ringlets of yours are really just keratin having a little party on your head!
Ever noticed how your hair behaves differently in different weather? That’s because environmental factors, like humidity, can have a big impact on your curls. Curly hair is more porous than straight hair, meaning it absorbs more moisture from the air. When humidity levels are high, the extra moisture can cause the hair shaft to swell, making your curls even more defined – or, depending on your hair type, causing frizz.
Think of your curls like a sponge. On a dry day, the sponge is light and springy. But on a humid day, it soaks up water and expands, changing shape and texture. That’s why your curls might look different depending on the weather. Remember frizz is just uncaptured curls. Make sure you thoroughly apply products’ roots to ends.
Understanding why your hair is curly is like uncovering a secret superpower. Your curls are a unique expression of your genetics, your hair’s structure, and even the environment around you. So whether you’re rocking tight coils, loose waves, or somewhere in between, know that your curls are a fascinating blend of science and beauty. Embrace the twist, turn, and bounce of your curls – they’re what make you uniquely you!
Juicy Curls is a privately held company based out of New York, founded by Allison Bridges.
Subscribe to Newsletter
Quick Links
Important Links
Contact Us
