This inability happens after the pigmentation cells in hair follicles die off. In old age, hair comes to turn grey due to the inability of the hair follicle to produce eumelanin. Black hair has the highest concentration of this pigmentation with brown, blonde and red hair following behind. This protein causes hair follicles to produce a type of melanin pigmentation called eumelanin. The most studied black hair gene is MC1R which causes the body to produce a protein called melanocortin. Color and texture Natural African American hair Color īlack hair is the product of a genetic trait inherited by parents at birth. Black hair has a complex history, culture, and cultural impact, including its relationship with racism. African-American hair often has a kinky hairy texture, appearing tightly coiled and packed. It plays a major role in the identity and politics of Black culture in the United States and across the diaspora. African-American hair or Black hair refers to hair types, textures, and styles that are linked to African-American culture, often drawing inspiration from African hair culture.
