A resurfaced TikTok clip featuring Judge Marilyn Milian from The People’s Court ignited widespread backlash after she expressed disbelief about Black women’s natural hair shrinkage, saying she couldn’t believe it could shrink “nine inches” after washing.
What Went Viral
In the video, Milian visibly reacts with surprise when a guest describes the significant shrinkage that natural Afro-textured hair can experience post-wash. TikTok users quickly amplified the clip—with over ten million views across several threads—mocking her astonishment as tone-deaf and misinformed
Social Media Reacts
Commenters called out the judge for her lack of awareness, noting that shrinkage is both common and celebrated in Black hair care:
“You don’t even have to be Black these days to know about shrinkage”
Creators also posted counter-videos showing real examples of hair shrinking dramatically—some up to 60% in length—after rinsing, complete with visual comparisons.
Milian’s Response
Following the backlash, Milian shared a follow-up where she acknowledged learning more about natural hair textures and expressed a desire to educate herself further.
Why It Matters
Natural hair shrinkage can be substantial (sometimes 4–6 inches or more), depending on moisture content and curl pattern. It’s a nuanced aspect of haircare that’s often misunderstood outside communities with Afro-textured hair. Critics say this incident highlights a broader issue: how mainstream awareness of Black hair norms remains limited—even among public figures.
Closing Thoughts
This viral moment is more than entertainment—it’s a reminder of the ongoing education needed around Black beauty and lived experiences. Judge Milian’s swift apology and promise to learn are steps toward understanding—but it’s the outpouring of community knowledge and shared personal stories that truly drives progress.
Let us know: were you surprised by Judge Milian’s lack of knowledge on how much our hair shrinks? Share your experiences below!
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