Hair texture is determined by the shape of the hair follicle and the amount of melanin present:
* Shape of the follicle: A round follicle produces straight hair, an oval follicle produces wavy hair, and a flat follicle produces curly hair.
* Melanin: Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its color. It also plays a role in hair texture, as it can affect the thickness and diameter of the hair shaft.
Therefore, both black and white people can have:
* Straight hair: Hair that hangs straight down.
* Wavy hair: Hair that has a gentle curve or "S" shape.
* Curly hair: Hair that forms tight coils or spirals.
* Coily hair: Hair that forms very tight coils, often called "kinky" hair.
It's important to avoid making generalizations about hair based on race. Hair texture is a diverse and complex trait, and there is a wide range of variation within every racial group.