Youtuber Aliana Fouse, AKA Ali Life, On Curly Hair Inclusivity

Every day we strive to help make a change in this world, whether it be verbally or not. We can make posts on our social media, create campaigns for others to see, or even join in marches near us. It does not take much to bring awareness of a problem to others. Not only is it a brave thing to do, but it’s also important in order to teach others about what is going on around us.

Aliana Fouse, an Elon senior, has found her own creative way to help others and speak out about a subject that continues to gain attention on the Internet: hair inclusivity. Fouse began making videos on Youtube under the name “Ali Life” her sophomore year of high school. Since then, Fouse’s videos have grown to reveal many aspects of her life besides beauty. If you were to visit her channel, you would likely find videos relating to her college journey, advice, and much more. However, the videos that stick out the most are all about hair, especially curly hair.

The inspiration behind the series of hair videos is connected with Fouse’s own journey with thick, curly hair. She mentioned that she used to struggle with how to take care of and know what products to use on her hair.

“When I was growing up I didn’t really know how to do my hair,” Fouse says. “I didn’t know the right products for me and I would straighten my hair almost every day.”

It was a process of trial and error then, but now the goal is to help others with hair like hers on the Internet. So far, internet platforms have been doing a good job of showcasing different hair textures. Those with thicker, curlier hair are now, more than ever, encouraged to own their natural hair texture! However, Fouse believes that there is still more work to be done.

“Societal standards see looser curls as ‘good hair,’ but in my opinion, as long as your hair is healthy, it is good hair. All textures of hair are beautiful,” Fouse says.

Not only do we have to continue to break down the standards set by others, but we have to be knowledgeable about the controversial actions of companies and speak up. Certain store companies have undergone criticism from customers after labeling afro hair products as “other” and limiting the production of those products to a small number.

“Curly hair does require specific products compared to someone with straight hair,” Fouse says, adding that it is important for stores and businesses to have a wider selection of curly hair products since “previous generations didn’t have access to hair tutorials and products as much as we have now.”

Through her Youtube channel, Fouse has used her voice to connect with others about hair and how to care for it. She understands that many are insecure about their natural hair texture and wants them to know that it is okay.

We have a long way to go in breaking down the beauty standards society has placed. It will take time to learn to love different, yet unique parts of yourself. Your hair is not unprofessional—or whatever negative remark people say it is. Fouse says, “Your curly hair is beautiful, versatile, and capable of anything!”