Afro-textured hair is a term used to refer to the natural hair texture of certain populations in
Africa, the
African diaspora,
Australia and
Asia, when this hair has not been altered by
hot combs,
flat irons, or chemicals (through
perming,
relaxation, or other
straightening methods). Each strand of this hair type grows in a tiny, spring-like
helix shape. The overall effect is such that, compared to
straight, wavy or curly hair, afro-textured hair appears denser.