Clinical and anthropological perspectives on chemical relaxing of afro‐textured hair. (12th March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Aryiku, S.A.; Salam, A.; Dadzie, O.E.; Jablonski, N.G.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. Volume 29:Number 9(2015:Sep.)
• Page Start: 1689
• Page End: 1695
• Publication Date: 2015-03-12
• Subjects: Dermatology -- Periodicals; Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13028
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0926-9959

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="jdv13028-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>The culturally engrained practice of 'relaxing' afro‐textured hair has been linked with hair and scalp disorders. Herein, we discuss the evolution of human hair types, focusing in particular on afro‐textured hair. We explore the biological features of this hair type, and discuss the different methods employed to straighten afro‐textured hair, focusing in particular on chemical straightening. We also examine clinical, anthropological, and psychological issues associated with this latter practice. Examples of common scalp pathologies associated with chronic hair relaxing, such as alopecia, hair breakage, caustic burns and irritant contact dermatitis, are also highlighted. The data presented herein should enable clinicians to engage in culturally appropriate discussions with their patients about issues of appearance and conformity.</p> </abstract>