Hair Shrinkage Calculator

What is hair shrinkage?

Hair shrinkage is the natural way that curly hair protects itself. This trait creates an illusion that the hair is shorter than it really is.

Why measure shrinkage?

There are multiple reasons to measure shrinkage:

• Know baseline of hair elasticity

• Determine your desired shrinkage level and what helps you best achieve it

• Better understand which products weigh down curls (and by how much)

• Track curl loss and heat damage recovery

What causes shrinkage?

• Hair Texture: Curly and coily hair naturally shrinks due to its spiral shape.

• Moisture Content: Moisturized hair tends to shrink more.

• Humidity: High humidity can cause hair to swell and shrink.

• Styling Products: Certain products can enhance or reduce shrinkage based on their ingredients.

• Curl Loss: Heat and chemical damage can alter the curl so that it does not revert to its natural shape.

How does shrinkage impact how the hair looks?

• Length Illusion: Hair may appear significantly shorter.

• Volume: Shrinkage can create a fuller appearance, adding volume to the hair.

• Manageability: Depending on personal preference, shrinkage can affect how easy or difficult hair is to style. As a result, it may be easier to style hair when wet, damp, or stretched.

How can you stretch the hair?

Bantu knots, braiding, bunning, and twisting are natural ways to stretch the hair. Wearers who prefer heat can use blow dryers and hot irons.

Are there products that are geared towards shrinkage?

Yes, there are anti-shrinkage products (like this one) and curl enhancing products (like this one) on the market. Both seek to define curls. We prefer the term "curl enhancing", because its terminology embraces how the hair naturally behaves.