Are All Protective Styles Equal? Assessing Quality of Public Information on Risks for Afro-Textured Hair

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

7-1-2026

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Keywords

Dermatology

Abstract

Introduction: Protective hairstyles (PHS) for Afro-textured hair require minimal manipulation and are worn to prevent damage.1 However, there is a dearth of literature regarding risks of PHS.1 As many rely on social media for education, it is imperative to understand the quality of information being shared.2,3 This study aims to analyze the quality of YouTube videos discussing risks of PHS. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of YouTube videos was performed in December 2024 using a previously validated method.4 Eligibility included being posted January 2020–December 2024, in English, 4–20 minutes, ≥ 1,000 views, and discussed PHS for natural hair. Two reviewers assigned DISCERN scores (DS) from a 16-item validated tool to assess quality of consumer health information.5 DS range from 16–29 (very poor), 30–40 (poor), 41–51 (fair), 52–63 (good), and 64–80 (excellent). Discrepancies were resolved by two additional reviewers. Results: Twenty-six videos were included, mostly by laypersons (n=20) and beauticians (n=2). Discussed styles included box braids, twists, faux locs, wigs, and crochet braids. Risks included breakage, tension, hair loss, dryness, and scalp buildup. The mean DS was 40.8, indicating videos were of poor to fair quality. Nonparametric testing demonstrated no significant difference in DS between personal and educational videos (W=43, p=0.972) or poster types (χ 2 =5.74, df=3, p=0.125). Conclusion: PHS were linked to various types of hair damage in the videos analyzed. The low DS highlights a need for more accurate, high-quality social media content to educate about risks of protective hairstyles and promote safer haircare practices.

Volume

95

Issue

1

First Page

AB52

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