Here's a better way to talk about hair

Measurement System

Tina Lasisi has developed a new scientific approach to classifying hair, focusing on measurable aspects like curvature and cross-section. She explains that traditional methods, often based on racial categories, are flawed and can lead to serious consequences, such as wrongful convictions in forensic cases 1. Her system measures hair curvature by fitting imaginary circles to the hair fiber, where the circle's size indicates the curl's tightness.

Once you have a circle that fits that curve, the bigger the circle is, the straighter the hair is, the smaller the circle is, the curlier the hair is.

--- Tina Lasisi

This innovative method aims to replace subjective descriptions with objective measurements, offering a more accurate representation of hair types 2.

   

Racial Typing Critique

The racial classification of hair has long been problematic, often ignoring the vast genetic diversity within human populations. Tina Lasisi highlights how these classifications fail to account for mixed ancestries, such as African Americans with European heritage, and the unique variations in hair texture 3. She critiques popular systems like the Walker system for reinforcing harmful beauty standards and texturism, which elevate certain hair types over others 2.

The issue tends to be that certain textures are seen as more valuable or prettier than others.

--- Tina Lasisi

By focusing on measurable characteristics, Tina's work challenges these outdated notions and promotes a more inclusive understanding of hair diversity.