CURLY BY DESIGN: How your hair follicles shape your curls
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When it comes to curly hair, genetics play the biggest role—but have you ever wondered what actually makes hair curly? The secret lies beneath the surface, in the shape of your hair follicles.
At CABELA, we love curls in all their forms, from soft waves to tight coils. But before you reach for your Creme Supreme, let’s dive into the science behind your strands and how their natural structure affects your hair care routine.
The Science Behind Curls: It’s All in the Follicle
Your hair’s texture—whether straight, wavy, or curly—is determined by the shape of your hair follicles. Follicles are tiny tube-like structures in the scalp where hair grows from. The more asymmetrical or oval-shaped your follicle, the curlier your hair will be!
Here’s how it works:
• Straight Hair: Grows from round follicles, allowing hair strands to emerge evenly and smoothly.
• Wavy Hair: Comes from slightly oval-shaped follicles, creating a loose, flowing pattern.
• Curly Hair: Forms when follicles are more elliptical, giving hair its signature bounce and defined curls.
• Coily Hair: Grows from highly oval or almost flat follicles, causing the strand to zigzag or coil tightly.
Additionally, the angle at which hair grows out of the follicle affects curliness. Hair that grows straight out of the scalp tends to be straighter, while hair that grows at a curved angle naturally forms curls.
Why Your Follicle Shape Matters for Hair Care
Since your curls are determined by your follicle shape, no amount of brushing, stretching, or heat styling will permanently change your curl pattern. That’s why working with your natural texture—not against it—is key!
Here are some key practices to take care of your natural hair:
1. Hydration is Everything
Curly hair is naturally drier because the twists and bends in the strand make it harder for scalp oils to travel down the shaft. Products that combine conditioning agents, humectants with quality active ingredients ensure your curls stay nourished and hydrated.
2. Gentle Handling Prevents Breakage
The bends in curly hair make it more fragile than straight hair. Use a curl specific detangling brush or finger detangle as much as possible. Always ensure your hair is coated with conditioner so the slip works in your favor and avoid rough towel-drying to keep curl clumps intact.
3. Curl Definition Depends on Your Follicle
Since curl shape is built-in, the right styling techniques enhance what you already have. Scrunching, plopping, and diffusing can help define curls..
4. Embrace Your Unique Curl Pattern
Some people have multiple curl types on their head—that’s because follicle shapes can vary across the scalp! Understanding your texture helps you choose the best products and techniques for each section of your hair.
Final Thoughts: Love the Curls You Were Born With
Your curls are not a coincidence—they’re a masterpiece designed by your DNA and your follicles. No two curl patterns are exactly the same, making each head of textured hair completely unique. Instead of fighting your natural texture, embrace it with the right care and styling methods.