New research by hair care brand, SheaMoisture, has revealed that over a third (35%) of Black and mixed-raced men and women surveyed feel frustrated by the absence of inclusive language surrounding afro and textured hair in popular culture.
Of those surveyed, 52% confirmed that the lack of awareness on the language surrounding afro and textured hair is having a negative impact on their lives, as almost seven in 10 (69%) see their natural hair as part of their identity but are not seeing it represented on a daily basis.
Over half (51%) of those surveyed also said they didn’t feel comfortable discussing their hair with friends with different hair types, due to a gap in understanding. A wider societal lack of knowledge has also contributed to a general discomfort for many (53%), with the majority (63%) agreeing that there needs to be more awareness on the correct terms to describe afro and textured hair so these words are part of people’s everyday vernacular - which will in turn lead to greater understanding of the correct terms.
