In a world where diversity is praised, your hair should be no exception. Embracing your roots means appreciating more than just your origins; it also means nurturing and enhancing your natural beauty. Ethnic hair comes in an amazing range of textures, from curls to waves, and each deserves specific care to truly shine. In this article from The Dermo Lab, we’ll explore a complete guide to ethnic hair care solutions tailored to each texture, to help you achieve your healthiest, most radiant hair.
What influence does ethnicity have on hair structure?
There are 4 “original” ethno-capillary profiles. Each has its own characteristics: color, texture, structure or implantation in the scalp. Because of these differences, hair does not grow in the same way, or at the same speed, depending on an individual’s ethnic origin.
- Asian hair:
Asian hair, generally straight and brown to black in color, grows perpendicular to the scalp. It has the fastest growth rate, at around 1.4 centimeters per month. Asian hair is rather round and uniform in shape.
Nevertheless, Asian hair density is the lowest of the four ethnic groups.
- Caucasian hair:
Caucasian hair can be straight, wavy or curly. Its colorimetry can vary from blond to dark brown. It grows obliquely, at a rate of about 1.2 centimeters per month. Caucasian hair is oval-shaped.
Caucasian hair density is the highest of the four ethnic groups, making it the densest.
- African hair:
African hair is generally curly or frizzy and grows almost parallel to the scalp. It has the slowest growth rate, at 0.9 centimeters per month, due to its spiral structure, which causes it to curl in on itself as it grows. African hair has a flattened shape.
The density of African hair is slightly higher than that of Asian hair.
- Middle Eastern hair:
Middle Eastern hair can feature a wide variety of textures and colors, ranging from straight to wavy or curly, and from dark brown to black. The growth rate of Middle Eastern hair is generally similar to that of Caucasian hair, at around 1.2 centimeters per month. Middle Eastern hair often has an oval-shaped follicle.
How to care for Asian hair?
1- Avoid excess oil and heavy conditioning agents
For women with this hair type, you probably know that your hair is generally less dense than other hair types, so oils and conditioning agents can weigh hair down and cause product build-up.
This step is essential as they tend to have a greasier scalp and need to treat the area regularly to keep it clean and healthy – regular scalp massages and scrubs are the solution.
2- Limit damaging treatments and procedures
While hair is less prone to breakage than other hair types and textures, it is notoriously difficult to lighten. It usually takes a lot of bleaching to achieve this, which can lead to serious damage. Many Asian women wonder how blonde they can get and how quickly, spending an obscene amount of money at the hairdresser’s to get the lightest color possible. You need to know your limits and be realistic about what you can achieve without causing damage.
3- Less is more
One of the most frequently asked questions about Asian hair types is heat styling, as hair strands are generally denser and therefore resistant to any movement or shape created by your curling wand or blow dryer. While it may be tempting to use a large amount of product to maintain your blow-dry or waves, we advise you to do the opposite. Avoid using too much of each product and concentrate instead on the placement and quality of the products you use.
4- Adopt revitalizing hair masks
Conditioning hair masks help restore the moisture your hair needs to look healthier and shinier. A deep conditioning treatment once a week or even twice a month, is perfect for Asian hair.
How to care for Caucasian hair?
The term “Caucasian hair” refers to the type of hair generally found in people of European descent, but it’s important to note that hair types can vary considerably within the same ethnic group.
1- Gentle cleansing
Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner suited to your hair type. Avoid excessive washing, which can strip hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness.
2- Condition your hair
Caucasian hair tends to have a fine to medium texture and can be prone to dryness. Use a moisturizing conditioner or mask regularly to nourish and moisturize hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends.
3- Protect against heat
Limit the use of heated styling tools such as hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons. When using heated styling tools, apply a heat protection spray or serum to prevent damage and minimize breakage.
4- Regular cuts
Plan regular cuts every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid split ends and preserve the health and appearance of your hair.
How to care for African hair?
1- Shampoo once a week
African hair tends to be naturally dry and low in oil, so there’s no need to shampoo more than once a week. Shampooing your hair several times a week or even every day removes the oil the hair needs from the hair shaft, making it drier, curlier and more prone to breakage.
African hair doesn’t become as greasy as Caucasian or Asian hair when left unwashed for several days.
Don’t wash tangled hair, as this will aggravate knots. Always detangle your hair before washing.
2- Condition your hair every time you shampoo
Because African hair tends to be dry, it’s essential to use a conditioner with every shampoo to rehydrate it. When applying conditioner, pay particular attention to the ends, which are the most brittle, and keep the product in your hair for a few minutes before washing.
3- Use leave-in conditioner on washed hair
After washing your hair, add a generous amount of leave-in conditioner to wet hair to continue moisturizing. Try to find a product that contains coconut oil, shea butter or cocoa butter.
How to care for Middle Eastern hair?
1- Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner
Middle Eastern hair can vary in texture, from straight to wavy or curly, and may require different types of shampoo and conditioner depending on its specific needs. Opt for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners to combat dryness, especially if your hair tends to be drier. Look for products containing nourishing ingredients such as argan oil, olive oil or keratin to help keep hair hydrated and manageable.
2- Limit washing frequency
Middle Eastern hair, like African hair, tends to be naturally dry and low in oil. Avoid over-washing your hair, as this can remove natural oils and lead to increased dryness and brittleness. Try shampooing once or twice a week to maintain your hair’s natural moisture balance.
3- Use leave-in treatments for hydration and protection
To keep Middle Eastern hair healthy and hydrated, incorporate leave-in treatments into your hair care routine. Look for leave-in conditioners or hair serums that moisturize and protect hair from external aggressors.
4- Be gentle when styling and detangling
Middle Eastern hair, especially curly or wavy hair, can be prone to tangling and breakage. Handle your hair with care, especially when detangling, to avoid damaging it. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair, starting with the ends and working your way up to the roots. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet, as this can stretch and break it.
Conclusion on ethnic hair care
In a world that increasingly recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, celebrating all hair textures, of all races, is a powerful and necessary step forward. By embracing the beauty of every curl, coil, wave and straight strand, we contribute to a more inclusive and affirming culture that recognizes and celebrates the richness of our collective tapestry. Let’s celebrate the beauty of all hair textures, fostering a world where everyone can thrive with confidence.
Last Updated on March 6, 2024
