Ever wondered why your hair is straight or curly? Genetics have a lot to do with it. The shape of the hair follicle, which is inherited from our parents is the determining factor in whether our hair is straight or curly.

If your follicle is round, hair will tend to grow straight, while an oval follicle will give wavy hair and a hooked or elliptical-shaped follicle will give you curly hair.

Straight hair follicles are vertically down into your scalp, while curly hair follicles tunnel at an angle. This is the main reason why straight hair is less dry than curly hair. Because curly hair grows at an angle it is difficult for natural oils to spread through the hair. Straight hair on the other hand, does not have this issue since the follicle is vertical.

This is also why curly-haired people don't have to wash their hair as often as straight haired people. While this is a great benefit of having natural ringlets, curly haired-people also may encounter scalp irritation and dandruff more. To combat this issue, we recommend using a moisturizing shampoo like Almond & Shea Butter Moisturizing Shampoo, made with Apple Cider Vinegar, that does not strip the hair of its natural oils while cleaning the hair and scalp.