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Introduction
I have always heard that Filipinos have great hair, but I always thought Filipinos used to have straight hair, and to an extent it is true. Most of the Filipinos have straight hair. But now, you can also see curly hair in Filipino and this is because Philippines is the land of ethnic diversity. You will find many types of cultural groups and languages.
When exploring the unique characteristics of Filipino curly hair, it’s important to recognize the varied cultural practices and historical influences that shape the beauty standards within different communities.
Straight or wavy hair used to be considered as natural hair in the Philippines. But now, due to different ethnic group higher prevalence towards naturally curly or wavy hair has started.
Let’s understand more about Filipino Curly Hair-
Chapter 1: The Filipino Tapestry of Ethnicities
The beauty of Filipino curly hair is from its rich culture. It is a celebration of diversity and individuality. In Philippines, you will find people are having more of straight hair, so curly hair becomes unique and have a different characteristic. Let’s understand some aspects of Filipino curly hair:
- Cultural Diversity- Philippines is a country with various diverse culture and ethnic group. Each culture has its own curly hair with distinct feature. Filipino curly hair reflects this rich tapestry of diversity, showcasing a variety of curl patterns and textures.
- Versatility- The best thing about curly hair is when they get styled properly. Filipino curly hair has got this advantage; their curly hair is versatile in nature ranging from loose waves to tight curls.
- Natural Shine and Volume- Filipino curly hair have a naturally shiny and bouncy hair. It gives a lustrous and eye catching appearance.
- Celebrating Individuality- The beauty of curly hair in Filipino culture lies in celebrating its individuality. Each person’s hair is different and unique. It helps to foster a culture of self-love.
Chapter 2: The Spectrum of Filipino Hair Types
The spectrum of Filipino Hair type is incredible. The Philippines is a home to various indigenous groups, and each group has its own unique characteristic. Let’s understand the spectrum in little more detail-
1. Straight and Silky Hair-
Straight hair is prevalent among Filipinos. It can range from fine and silky hair to coarse and thick hair.
2. Waves of Diversity–
Wavy hair means gentle waves, and the waves can vary in intensity. You will see Filipinos having naturally wavy hair, and the hair has a good volume and subtle texture.
3. Embracing Curly Locks-
Curly hair comes in many different shapes and sizes such as you will find Filipinos having kinky or coily hair. This hair type is especially celebrated for its unique texture and is found among different ethnic groups across the Philippines.
4. Coils and Spirals-
The last type of hair is called by many names- Coils, Spirals, and Kinky. The basic hair characteristic of this hair is that it has tight curls or coils. You need to have a proper hair routine to maintain hair health of this type.
5. Mixed Textures-
You can also find many Filipinos having mixed textures of hair, where some part of the hair is straight, some parts are curly hair, and some wavy hair. These mixed textures add to the unique personality of the person.
Chapter 3: Influences Shaping Filipino Hair Texture
Filipino hair texture is a combination of various ethnic diversity. There are many factors such as environmental and cultural which influence Filipino hair texture.
Let’s understand other factors that influence the shape of Filipino hair texture-
- Genetic- Genes play a major role in shaping hair texture. As we all know Philippines is home to different ethnic groups, each of them with different genetic factors. These genes help in deciding the hair texture.
- Ethnic and Cultural Influences- The Philippines is a country of diverse cultures. Different ethnic groups practice different hair care and this influences the hair texture a lot.
- Geographical Factors- The climate affects Filipino hair texture a lot. Humidity and exposure to the sun are two main factors which affect the hair texture. For example- Humidity may make curly hair frizzier and curls more enhanced.
- Colonial Period- When colonization was going on in the Philippines, then grooming practices and beauty standards may have been influenced by external forces. For example, American, Spanish, and other colonial influences could have had an impact on hair care habits and preferences.
- Historical Influences- The Philippines and its interaction with neighboring countries and colonial influence played a major role in shaping the hair texture. Filipinos started having inter-caste marriages, which has a major contribution in shaping hair texture.
Chapter 4: Dispelling Myths and Stereotypes about Filipino Hair
Each hair comes with some myths and stereotypes; Similarly, there are many myths and stereotypes about Filipino hair. Let’s dispel the myths and stereotypes-
Myth: All Filipinos have straight hair
Straight hair is indeed common among Filipinos, but due to the diverse population, you will also find people with curly, wavy, and kinky hair.
Myth: People with mixed ancestry can only have curly hair in the Philippines.
People with curly hair in the Philippines can come from various backgrounds. But it is not true that mixed ancestry people will have curly hair. Many Filipinos from indigenous communities also have naturally curly hair.
Myth: You cannot style Filipino hair much
Filipino hair be it straight or curly is versatile, you can style it in any way you want. Also, many Filipinos embrace various hairstyles to express their personality.
Myth: Natural hair is unprofessional and unkempt
These days one is becoming aware about how to care for their hair and also starting to embrace their natural hair. Natural hair, including curly and coily textures, is a valid and beautiful expression of one’s identity and culture.
Chapter 5: Best Filipino Curly Hairstyles
1. Lob Cut-
A lob cut is nothing but extended version of longer bob. This hairstyle, is perfect for the curls with longer length.
Julie Ann San Jose is a perfect example of lob cut.
2. Pixie Curly Hair-
Pixie curly hair is one of the very famous curly hairstyle. This hairstyle is easy to maintain and gives a cool look.
Chariz Solomon has rocked this look.
3. Colored Bangs-
Giving your curls a colored treat is something which enhances your curls look and also your creativity. You can highlight your curls with ombre or other color.
4. Micro Fringes-
Yes, I know fringes were too much in trend few years back. But believe me, they are still trend and looks amazing. Obviously you can put your own creativity here, like Micro fringes. In this, you do have fringes, but its micro version. For reference, you can check out Maris Racal above pic.
Chapter 6: Celebrating the Beauty of Filipino Curly Hair
The Rise of the Natural Hair Movement
Philippines is a country of diverse background and diverse ethnicity. Most people here have straight hair, but that has started changing. Since there are diverse group of people living in Philippines, hair texture and hair follicles have also started changing.
You will see many curly-haired people around you, and this is the new natural hair in Philippines. People instead, of using straightener on their curls, have started embracing the curls.
This embracing has encouraged individuals, regardless of their ethnic background, to celebrate and appreciate their natural hair in its unaltered state. Celebrating the beauty of Filipino Curly Hair is wonderful, it helps to promote self-acceptance and diversity.
Representation in Media
Media plays a major role in setting any trend. It helps to focus on diverse culture in Philippines and how it has affected the curly hair now. When people see, that media is focusing on how to embrace curls and make curls feel like natural hair, then people with curly haired are encouraged to do the same.
Positive portrayals of Filipino individuals with curly hair challenge traditional beauty norms and contribute to a more inclusive definition of attractiveness.
Media’s representation can directly influence how people see their beauty. When curls are represented as the new trend and are portrayed positively, people with curls feel confident and it can also boost their self-esteem.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is Curly Hair Common in the Philippines?
In the Philippines, straight hair is more common than curly hair. You see Filipinos having straight or wavy hair. Also, you should remember that the Philippines is a diverse country with various ethnic groups, and each ethnic 1group has its range of hair textures.
2. How Can I Care for my Filipino Curly Hair?
The best way to take care of your Filipino Curly Hair is to have a proper hair routine. A routine that helps to address all the problems of wavy and curly hair. Some tips for Filipino Curly Hair care-
a. Hydration and moisture
b. Cleanse your hair gently
c. Detangling with utmost care
d. Never skip Leave-in conditioner
e. Avoid the use of heating tools
f. Use satin pillowcases
g. Have a balanced diet
3. Can Filipino Hair Change Texture?
Hair texture is largely decided by the genes which run in the family. It decides the shape of hair follicles, the distribution of proteins, and also the amount of sebum produced by the scalp.
But still, apart from the above things, there are factors that can influence the appearance of hair over time-
a. Hormonal change- Changes that occur after puberty or pregnancy.
b. Environmental change- Humidity, sun’s rays, and pollution can affect how hair behaves.
c. Chemical treatments- If you use chemical treatments on your hair such as relaxers, perms, or straighteners.
d. Hair Care Practices- The way you care for your hair and the products you use on them.
Conclusion
So, now we know everything about Filipino Hair- its texture, how versatile they are, Filipino hair types. The Philippines is a land with a rich cultural history. Their history plays a major role in deciding the texture of hair.
It also highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating the natural beauty of different hair types within the context of the rich cultural and genetic diversity of the Philippines.
Do you know any Filipinos with Curly Hair?
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