“I am now being who I am and I’m proud of it”: Hair related personal and social identity and subjective wellbeing of older Black women in the UK

This study examines the hair management practices of older Black women in the UK, focusing on personal, social, and well-being aspects. Using a mixed methods approach with an online survey of 46 participants and 10 in-depth interviews, the study found a significant decrease in the use of complex hairstyles and hairdresser visits over 30 years, while hair coloring frequency remained unchanged. Three key themes emerged: managing hair greying as a negotiation of identity, the cultural significance of curly hair texture against Eurocentric beauty standards, and enhanced well-being through confidence in personal hair aesthetics. The study concludes that age does not reduce the desire for good hair, and increasing the visibility of older Black women's hair can support their social and professional engagement and well-being.