Hot comb

Walter Sammons hot comb

Hot comb also known as a pressing comb, is a metal comb used to straighten hair. Its origins can be traced back to France in the late 19th century, but it became particularly popular among African American women in the early 20th century as a way to achieve smoother hair textures. The hot comb is heated and then used to press and temporarily straighten curly or kinky hair.

History

The hot comb was patented by Madame C.J. Walker, a prominent African American entrepreneur and hair care industry pioneer, in the early 1900s. However, there is evidence to suggest that similar tools were used in Europe before Walker's patent. The invention revolutionized hair care for African American women, offering a way to achieve styles that were previously difficult to maintain with coarser hair textures.

Usage

To use a hot comb, the comb is heated, traditionally by placing it in a stove or oven. Modern versions are electric and can be heated to a specific temperature using an electrical outlet. The comb is then run through the hair, starting close to the roots and pulled through to the ends, straightening the hair in the process. The technique requires skill and caution to avoid burns and heat damage to the hair.

Cultural Significance

The hot comb has been a subject of controversy within the African American community and beyond. It has been seen as a tool for conforming to European beauty standards, thus sparking debates about racial identity and the definition of beauty. However, others view it as a means of versatile hair styling and a way to manage and care for Afro-textured hair.

Modern Alternatives

With advancements in hair care technology, the hot comb has seen a decline in popularity. Tools such as hair straighteners and chemical relaxers offer longer-lasting results. Moreover, there has been a growing movement towards embracing natural hair textures, leading to a decreased demand for hair straightening products and tools.

See Also

• Hair straightening
• Madame C.J. Walker
• African American culture
• Beauty standards