5 Reasons to Use YouTube to Learn About Natural Hair

When I first returned to my natural hair in 2005 I knew nothing about taking care of it. So I turned to black hair care forums and blogs. The information I found was helpful but limited. Over time I found some tips for caring for black tresses. However, I'm glad that I eventually found that YouTube is a helpful resource as well. Here are 5 reasons to use YouTube if you have natural hair.

1. You can find natural hairstyles that may work for your hair.
You could spend hours on YouTube and still not come close to finding all of the natural hairstyle videos that are housed there. It can be a bit overwhelming when you first start searching. I suggest that you do a search for "natural hairstyles". And then look for videos where the YouTuber has approximately the same length and a similar hair type as yours.

2. You can find tutorials on techniques and styling.
For me, this has been the most helpful part of using YouTube. I have learned how to do two-strand twists, box braids, and other styles. And perhaps more importantly, I have learned effective ways of shampooing, deep conditioning, and drying my hair.

3. You can get inspired.
If you are frustrated or at a loss with what to do with your hair then you can get inspired by seeing what others are accomplishing. So much of caring for natural hair is trial and error. And it helps to know that others are trying out new techniques and learning as they go just like you are.

4. You can get your questions answered.
Use the comment section to reach out to the video makers. Many of them welcome and respond to comments and questions. Some will even do follow up videos addressing concerns found in the comments.

5. You may find products that will work for you.
It can be difficult to find products that work well for your hair type. That's why I enjoy watching reviews on YouTube and finding out what products others are using. Again, it helps to find someone who's hair appears to be similar in type to your own. Of course, natural African-American hair varies from person to person. But I have found several YouTubers who seem to have the same tightly coiled "springlettes" that I have. I have tried some of the products they've suggested with more success than when I was just picking up different products from the drug store.

It's a good idea to keep an open mind when you start viewing YouTube videos about natural hair. A lot of what you see may be contrary to what you have always done. But if you are willing to take a chance and try something new, then you may start to get more positive results when caring for and styling your hair.