Are Hairdressers a Threat to Children's Health?

Aim: In this study, the impact of hair salon employees' health literacy on their approach to factors affecting children's health has been examined. Method: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 200 hair salon employees who agreed to participate in the research. The research data were collected using a Personal Information Form and the Health Literacy Scale, both prepared by the researchers based on the literature. Results: Seventy-four percent of hair salon employees reported that they performed procedures on “pregnant women”. 39.5% stated that they only used protective equipment for the “mother” during the procedure. In addition, 91.5% reported that they performed procedures on “breastfeeding mothers”. 77.5% stated that they did not use “protective equipment”. 72.5% of the employees believed that cosmetic products did not negatively affect newborns. The average total score of the Health Literacy Scale for the hair salon employees participating in the study was found to be 41.90 ± 5.41. Conclusion: Our research found that hair salon employees have a low level of health literacy. To increase the health literacy level of hair salon employees, training sessions should be conducted, and educational videos, posters, brochures, and public service announcements should be prepared.