Experts Explain Why Hair Changes Every Seven Years

Changes in hair texture are a natural phenomenon that many people experience, often without understanding why. According to experts from Fresha, a leading beauty and wellness booking platform, hair can undergo significant changes approximately every seven years. This cycle can lead to surprising transformations, such as individuals who once had straight hair discovering hidden waves or curls.

Hair professionals emphasize that “hair isn’t fixed for life.” Various factors, including hormonal shifts, aging, and lifestyle changes, influence how hair follicles behave over time. For instance, an individual who grew up with straight hair may notice waves emerging in their twenties or thirties. Conversely, others might find that their curls relax into looser textures as they age.

Understanding Hair Texture Changes

The variations in hair texture stem from several key factors related to hair follicles. The shape of the follicle plays a crucial role; circular follicles tend to produce straight hair, while oval or curved follicles create waves or curls. Additionally, the angle at which hair grows affects its texture. Hair emerging at an angle is more likely to curve as it grows.

Protein bonds also contribute to hair texture. Curly and wavy hair contains more microscopic disulphide bonds, which act like springs along the hair shaft. Life stages, including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, as well as factors like stress or medication, can modify follicle activity and alter natural texture over time.

Many individuals have misidentified their hair type, often mistaking frizz or damage for natural waves. Stylists at Fresha report that they frequently encounter clients who believed they had straight hair, only to discover a wavy pattern beneath. “The mistake is trying to flatten it with heat or strip it with daily washing,” the stylists explain. “With the right lightweight products, gentle drying, and wave-enhancing techniques, those hidden curls can look glossy and intentional.”

A Cultural Shift Towards Embracing Natural Hair

This newfound understanding of hair evolution has sparked considerable interest on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. Videos featuring “wavy hair realizations” have gained popularity, leading to increased bookings for wave-friendly cuts and styling at Fresha.

Experts stress the importance of embracing one’s natural texture. “Your hair evolves with you,” they note. Recognizing the seven-year cycle can empower individuals to appreciate their hair’s natural characteristics, leading to healthier and more beautiful results. By focusing on understanding and enhancing natural texture, people can move away from the struggle of conforming to societal standards and instead celebrate their unique hair journeys.