Hair Stylists as Lay Health Workers: Perspectives of Black Women on Salon-Based Health Promotion

Authors: Kelly N B Palmer, Abidemi Okechukwu, Namoonga M Mantina, Forest L Melton, Nidal A-Z Kram, Jennifer Hatcher, David G Marrero, Cynthia A Thomson, David O Garcia

In this qualitative study, researchers sought to explore how hair stylists serve as lay health workers, particularly among underserved and vulnerable populations. Researchers conducted six virtual focus groups with 39 Black women across the United States. During group discussions, participants were asked about how their stylist’s personal identity impacts their influence and how they may have a role in health promotion. Overall, trust, relatability, and credibility emerged as three distinct themes. While participants reported they might not be receptive to their stylist’s health advice outside of hair health, they were receptive to receiving referrals to healthcare professionals and experts from their hair stylist. The results of this study present an opportunity to utilize hair stylists as a trusted source for disseminating health information in underserved populations.