54% of women reach for the curling iron when they want to get glam. But for some, this change happens all by itself.
Some women (and men) with straight hair do indeed change from Type 1 to Type 3 hair. That is, from straight to curly hair.
Why? It has a lot to do with hormones. Menopause, puberty, or other hormone-changing events can change your hair type.
Here’s why.
Understanding Hair Texture and Type
Hair texture refers to the natural shape and pattern of your hair. It is determined by the shape of your hair follicles, which are the structures in your scalp that create hair strands.
Your hair’s texture can be straight, wavy, or curly and can range from thin to coarse.
Straight hair (Type 1) is usually thin and can become oily quickly because of the lack of curls. The straightness is a result of round follicles.
On the other hand, curly hair (Type 3) has oval or twisted oval follicles, which cause the hair to be wavy or curly.
In between, we have wavy hair (Type 2). When people experience a change in texture, it’s more likely that straight hair turns wavy, not curly.
What Determines Your Hair Texture?
Your genetics play a significant role in your hair texture; it is something you inherit from your family. The proteins and amino acids that make up your hair also contribute to its natural texture.
However, hair texture can change over time due to hormonal changes. For instance, during puberty or pregnancy, some people’s hair may turn wavy or curly.
If hormonal changes are the culprit, there’s not much you can do. But if that’s not the case, use hair care products for your hair type to maintain it.
But be careful, as some contain ingredients that can dry out or damage your hair. Especially if it is thin or coarse.
Can Straight Hair Turn Curly?
It is possible for straight hair to turn curly due to hormonal changes, stress, or external factors. These influence your genes and hair follicles.
Your hair’s texture is determined by a combination of genetics and the shape of your hair follicles. Straight hair has round follicles, while curly hair has oval or asymmetrical ones.
Reasons Why Straight Hair Turns Curly
There are a few different reasons why straight hair turns curly:
Hormones
One possibility is hormones. As you age, your body experiences hormonal changes that can affect hair growth and texture. For instance, during puberty or pregnancy, you might notice your hair becoming curlier due to fluctuations in hormone levels.
Stress
Stress is another factor that could potentially alter your hair texture. When you’re under a lot of stress, it can cause changes in your genes, leading to modifications in your hair follicles. These changes might result in your hair becoming curlier over time.
External Factors
Lastly, external factors such as medication, nutrition, illness, and pollution can also play a role in hair textural changes. These factors can impact how your genes work and thus alter the shape of your hair follicles.
Age
As you grow older, your hair may go through some textural changes. The hair you have during your childhood years might be different from your teenage years and adulthood. So, don’t be surprised when you see some changes in your hair’s texture over time.
Care and Styling
Certain hair care products or styling tools frequently can change your hair’s texture. For example, excessive heat styling can damage your hair. This can cause it damage to the cuticle layer and cause the hair to appear more frizzy, curly or wavy.
How to Turn Your Straight Hair Curly
If you have straight hair and want to make it curly, there are several methods you can try:
Mousse
First, you can use mousse to add volume and texture to your hair. Apply a small amount of mousse to your damp hair and scrunch it with your hands.
This will help create waves and curls as your hair dries.
Braiding
Braiding your hair can also help create waves. Divide your damp hair into sections and braid each one. Let your hair dry naturally or use a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Once your hair is dry, undo the braids and you should have loose waves.
Curling Tools
It’s essential to protect your hair from damage during the curling process. Using a heat protectant spray before applying heat to your hair can help prevent damage caused by high temperatures. This is particularly important when using tools like curling irons or flat irons to create curls.
Chemical Curls
You may also consider a chemical process, such as a perm, to make your straight hair curly. However, these treatments can be harsh and may lead to brittle hair and damage. Always consult a professional hairstylist if you’re considering any chemical treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes straight hair to turn curly during puberty?
During puberty, hormonal changes can cause your hair to change in texture. These changes may lead to straight hair becoming curly. Your genes also play a role in your hair’s texture and can be influenced by hormones, resulting in curly hair appearing during this period.
Is it common for hair to become curly and thin?
Yes, it is common for hair to undergo changes in texture and thickness as you age. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, and other factors can cause hair to become curly and thin. Everyone’s hair reacts differently to these factors, and some people may notice more significant changes than others.
Can straight hair become wavy with age?
Straight hair can become wavy or curly with age due to various factors, such as hormonal changes, stress, and changes in your hair follicles’ genes. These changes can affect the shape and structure of your hair strands, leading to a shift in texture.
Why does hair sometimes appear curly underneath and straight on top?
The hair underneath may be exposed to less heat and styling, allowing its natural texture to be preserved. The top layer of hair is often subjected to more styling tools and heat, leading it to appear straighter. Environmental factors and how you care for your hair can also influence the different textures.
Do some people experience wavy hair as they get older?
Yes, some people may experience wavy hair as they get older. This change can be a result of hormonal shifts, changes in hair follicle genes, and the cumulative effects of heat-styling and environmental factors. Each person’s hair is unique, and the changes in texture may vary from person to person.
How can hair seemingly turn curly overnight?
Hair can seem to turn curly overnight due to factors like humidity, hair products, or how you slept on your hair. Your hair’s structure can be temporarily altered, leading to the appearance of curls. This change is usually temporary, but it can become more permanent in some cases, depending on the factors influencing your hair.
