How to care for Native American Hair

“In Native American culture, hair is a physical manifestation of a person’s thoughts and an extension of themselves. Many Holy men and Holy women are recognized by the length of their hair. The cutting of hair represents the submission and defeat of their people, through humiliation by oppressors. The way that individuals style their hair portrays and announces participation in various events and feelings expressed. Cutting hair symbolizes cutting off the flow of thought and usually only occurs when individuals choose to make a major change in their lives. Braids symbolize oneness and unity; by connecting strands of hair together, it physically demonstrates the strength of oneness: “one heart, one mind, one soul”" (AOTA, n.d, p. 3)

Natives Don't Have Bad Hair Days - Care For Your Braids - Native American Pow WowsAs Native people, we take pride in our hair. It portrays our cultural identity, our values, and our beliefs. In the old days when most of our people wore %

Native American Hair Care

Read more on when to wash hair, and products to use. Within this article, there is a link to Jessica's minimalist long Native American hair routine. Watch for tips and tricks!

The Importance of Long Hair in Indigenous Culture - Gold Rush Trail BCEver wondered why indigenous people have long hair? Click here to learn more from Tuckkwiowhum Knowledge Keeper Ernie Michel

Long Hair in Indigenous Cultures

This website shares great information regarding the history and importance of long hair within this community and culture.

(Haircode, n.d.)

Understanding your hair type and porosity is important because it helps you choose the right products and routines to maintain healthy, manageable hair. Your hair type—whether it's straight, wavy, curly, or coily—affects how it responds to moisture, styling, and heat. Knowing your porosity, which refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture, is also crucial. Low-porosity hair tends to resist moisture, while high-porosity hair absorbs moisture quickly but may lose it just as fast. By understanding these factors, you can select hair care products and techniques that are best suited for your specific needs, helping to improve your hair's health, appearance, and manageability. For foster and adoptive parents, understanding a child's hair type and porosity is especially important to ensure they feel confident and their hair remains healthy.

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