African hair threading

Chika Lann in threaded hairstyle

African hair threading[1] (also known as hair threading/ threading) is a traditional hairstyling technique unique to sub-Saharan African culture. This practice involves intricately wrapping or braiding the natural hair with threads, often made of wool, cotton, or Nylon, to create elaborate patterns.[2]

Etymology and names

African hair threading has multiple names across Africa in the West African country of Nigeria for example different ethnic groups know African hair threading by their native names. The native name in the Igbo language is isi òwu or òwu isī.[3][4] In Yoruba language, it is known as Irun Kiko.[5] In Ghana in the Ga language it is known as Akweley Waabii,[6] in East Africa it is known as Nywele[7] in the Swahili language.

Origins

Hair threading is a prevalent traditional hairstyle within many sub-Saharan African societies, particularly prevalent in the cultures of Western and Central Africa. The practice of African hair threading traces its origins back centuries as early as the 15th century.[8]

Process

The process begins by sectioning the hair, then wrapping each section with threads and tightly securing the hair in place.[9] This technique serves as a protective style, safeguarding hair from breakage.

Variations and styles

A Ghanaian woman in an african hair threading hairstyle known as 'Adonko Hair Style' or 'Watchman's Wife.'

There are many variations and styles in African hair threading, depending on the types and patterns as well as the shape, size, and direction of the sections of hair.[10]

Some of the common styles include the corkscrew, this style involves wrapping the thread around the hair in a spiral motion, creating long, springy sections that resemble corkscrews.[11] other styles include Flat twists[12] Different colors of threads can be used in creating contrast or to highlight patterns in hair threading.[13]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Mensah, Charlotte (29 October 2020). Good Hair: The Essential Guide to Afro, Textured and Curly Hair. Penguin UK. ISBN 978-0-241-98817-6.
  2. ↑ Akorli, Rudith (2014). "Reveal". Rochester Institute of Technology – via Academia.edu.
  3. ↑ Dazed (12 May 2020). "Is a traditional African hairstyle really a 'coronavirus trend'?". Dazed. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
  4. ↑ "Translate 'òwu isī or 'owu isi' for Igbo and English meanings and definitions". nkowaokwu.com. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
  5. ↑ Nnadi, Chioma (27 October 2017). "This Brooklyn-Based Designer Is Making Waves With a Centuries-Old African Hairstyle". Vogue. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
  6. ↑ "Naa Oyoo Quartey". ganyobi1.rssing.com. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
  7. ↑ HQ, CIAFE (9 December 2022). "Understanding African Hair Threading - Explainer". CIAFE. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
  8. ↑ Livara (7 February 2023). "Black History Month: The Rich History of Our African Hair - Livara Natural Organics". Retrieved 30 December 2023.
  9. ↑ "AFRICAN THREADING: Heatless Natural Hair Blow-out". Organic Beauty Essence. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
  10. ↑ MENSAH, CHARLOTTE (February 2019). "Celebrating The Art Form Of African Hair Threading". www.refinery29.com. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
  11. ↑ "Best Type Of Thread To Use For African Hair Threading In 2024 | This Is BEAUTY MART". 13 October 2023. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
  12. ↑ "African Threading for Hair Growth, Benefits and Uses". Black Natural and Proud Sistas. 9 January 2020. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
  13. ↑ Dugger, Medina. "Chroma: An Ode to J.D. 'Okhai Ojeikere - Photographs and text by Medina Dugger". LensCulture. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
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