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Had Straight Hair, Now It's Curly?

Published in Hair Texture Changes 2 mins read

Yes, it is possible for someone who had straight hair to develop curly hair, and this is a fairly common phenomenon.

Why the Change?

While science doesn't fully understand why hair texture can change over time, it's believed to be related to the hair follicle's shape. Here's what we know:

  • Follicle Shape: Straight hair typically grows from a round follicle, while curly hair grows from a flatter, more oval-shaped follicle.
  • Changes Over Time: The shape of your hair follicles can change as you age, leading to alterations in hair texture. This can mean a shift from straight hair to curly hair, or vice versa.

Key Factors:

While the exact mechanisms aren't completely understood, some factors may contribute:

  • Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can all influence hormone levels, which may affect hair follicle shape.
  • Aging: It's not unusual for hair to change texture as you age.
  • Genetics: Changes in gene expression over time can alter hair texture.


Initial Hair Texture Follicle Shape Resulting Hair Texture Follicle Shape
Straight Round Curly Flatter (Oval)

Why Science Doesn't Have All the Answers

The precise mechanisms that cause these shifts in follicle shape and, consequently, hair texture are complex and not fully understood. However, it is a fairly common phenomenon.


While the exact science is still being explored, it is clear that changes in hair texture can happen over time. If you've noticed your once straight hair is now curly, you're not alone.

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