Do Mexicans Have Curly Hair?

When it comes to hair texture, Mexico is a diverse country. While straight hair is often associated with indigenous Mexicans, curly hair is also very common. The degree of curliness can vary quite a bit among individuals based on genetic and ethnic factors.

In this article, we’ll explore the prevalence of curly hair among Mexicans, the range of curl types seen, and what influences hair shape and texture.

How Common Is Curly Hair in Mexico?

It’s estimated that at least 70% of Mexicans have some degree of natural curl or wave to their hair. Only a minority have stick-straight tresses.

However, indigenous Mexicans with pure Native American ancestry most commonly have straight, silky black hair. Curly hair entered the gene pool through mixing with European and African ancestry.

Here’s a quick breakdown of hair texture frequency among Mexicans:

• 70% curly or wavy
• 20% straight
• 10% tightly coiled

As you can see, curly hair is prevalent among the majority of Mexicans due to the blending of diverse ethnicities over centuries.

Range of Curl Types

Mexicans can have a wide spectrum of curl patterns and textures:

Type 2 – Wavy

• S-shaped waves
• Thick and coarse in texture
• Shiny and luminous

Type 3 – Curly

• Defined ringlets and corkscrews
• Bouncy spiral curls
• Loose to tight in texture

Type 4 – Coily

• Tight zig-zag coils
• Dense and springy curls
• Less common but can occur

In general, Type 2 and 3 curly hair is most typical for Mexicans rather than super tight coils. But variation certainly exists depending on an individual’s genetic makeup.

Factors That Influence Hair Texture

A number of factors intersect to influence hair shape and curl pattern among Mexicans.

Genetic Ancestry

• Indigenous ancestry = straighter hair
• European ancestry = looser waves and curls
• African ancestry = tighter coils

The more European and African ancestry someone has, the curlier their hair tends to be.

Region of Mexico

• Southern Mexico = More African influence = Tighter curls
• Northern Mexico = More Spanish influence = Softer waves

Southern Mexicans tend to have curlier hair on average than those from the north.

Percentage of Indigenous Ancestry

• The higher the percentage of Native American ancestry, the straighter the hair.

Those with pure indigenous roots almost always have straight hair.

Environmental Factors

• Humidity amplifies texture and curl
• Heat and sun exposure can damage and alter curl pattern
• Chemical processing damages hair structure

Caring for Mexican Curls

Curly Mexican hair has some unique properties that require specific care. Here are some top tips:

• Generously condition to add moisture to dry strands.
• Allow hair to air dry rather than blow drying or rubbing with a towel.
• Use a wide-tooth comb and fingers to detangle, not a brush.
• Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on curl pattern.
• Apply styling products to soaking wet hair for better distribution.
• Sleep on a silk pillowcase to prevent frizz and breakage.
• Use protective styles like braids to give hair a rest from daily styling.

Proper care is key to keeping Mexican curls healthy, defined, and frizz-free!

Hairstyles for Curly Mexican Hair

Here are some fabulous hairstyles to accentuate those natural waves and curls:

Beachy Waves

Effortless looking waves created by braiding damp hair overnight or using a curling iron. Play up the texture with sea salt spray.

Boho Braid Crown

A braided crown creates a romantic frame for loose curly locks. Add flowers for a Coachella vibe.

Curly Faux Hawk

Use mousse to sculpt curls into a faux mohawk shape, leaving length and volume at the crown.

Twisted Top Knot Bun

Pull the top section of hair into a knot, gently twist, and secure into a top bun for an elegant updo.

Bantu Knot Out

Section hair into square parts and tie into bantu knots overnight. Take knots out in the morning for heatless spirals.

Loose Braided Ponytail

Lightly Dutch braid the sides of hair back into a curly ponytail for a playful, summertime look.

As you can see, curly hair allows for so many styling options from beach waves to braided updos! Embrace those natural Mexican curls.

At Heather Annz Salon, our stylists are experienced at cutting and styling all curl types. Contact us to book an appointment to maximize your curly hair potential!