What is "scab hair"?

Scab hair refers to the new growth hair that feels different from previously grown hair, which is often a result of damage to the hair and scalp. This phenomenon typically occurs after a protective style or a long period of chemical treatments, where the new strands may have a different texture, feel coarser or softer, or vary in curl pattern compared to the older, trained hair. The differentiation in texture can be attributed to factors like changes in the hair's health, porosity, or the body's natural way of responding to hair care practices. Moreover, this new hair growth often signifies that the scalp is recovering from prior stress or damage, which can lead to a temporary change in texture until the hair continues to grow out.

The other options focus on various hair and scalp conditions, but they do not accurately describe the nature of scab hair nor its specific characteristics in relation to new hair growth.