Discover the Science of Your Hair !!
Your hair holds a story. We’re here to tell it.
Join for FREE in just 2 minutes.
Introduction
Every curl, coil, and strand of your hair carries genetic information that reveals how your hair grows, responds to products, and protects you from the environment. At the African Hair Institute (AHI), we’re building the first population-specific hair genetics resource — and we want you to be part of it.
Why it matters
Most hair products and treatments are built on data that under-represents African hair. We’re changing that — through science, inclusion, and community.
- Representation in research: Your participation ensures African hair biology is studied and understood.
- Health insights: Better guidance on scalp health, breakage, growth, and protective styling.
- Beauty meets biology: What we learn can shape the next generation of hair-care innovation.
Join the movement
It only takes a few minutes to register and learn how to participate.
- Sign up — Get updates about upcoming studies and discoveries.
- Learn — Explore videos, explainer articles, and genetic insights.
- Contribute — Volunteer for studies or share your hair journey anonymously.
What people are saying
“Finally, research that sees our hair.” — Community Member, Washington, D.C.
“I never thought science could explain my curls. AHI made it make sense.” — Subscriber, Atlanta
A peek at the science
We study how genes, proteins, and environment shape hair structure, strength, and growth. With community input, we turn data into insights you can use — without compromising your privacy.
- Population-informed analyses
- Ethical, IRB-guided studies
- Plain-language explainers
Membership Levels
Choose a level that matches how you’d like to participate. Every member supports more inclusive research and education on African hair biology.
Community Member (Free)
- Access to selected public articles and updates
- Access to Clinical Trial listings
- Newsletter + community announcements
- Create your member profile (upgrade anytime)
- Be part of the movement to make African hair science inclusive
Standard Member
- Everything in Free
- Access to all articles and video explainers
- Access to all Clinical Trial listings
- Weekly explainers on genetics, hair health, and effective products
- Members-only breakdowns of research papers in plain English
- Early invites to AHI community events
- Discounted educational courses and webinars
- Private Q&A access to AHI researchers (selected sessions)
Sponsor Member
- Everything in Standard
- Access to all educational courses and webinars
- Quarterly behind-the-scenes research briefings
- Invitation to the AHI Annual Research Event in Northern Virginia
- Early access to guides, webinars, and future datasets
- Recognition as a Sponsor of the African Hair Institute
- Help fund inclusive hair science — your contribution advances real research
Founding Sponsor
- Everything in Sponsor
- Invitation to Founders’ Roundtable and private events
- Featured recognition across AHI publications (optional)
- Direct updates from The Carroll Lab
- Full access to the Annual Research Event in Northern Virginia
- Early access to major announcements and research collaborations
- Exclusive updates on new projects — with opportunities to get involved
- Listed in AHI Founders’ Registry (optional legacy acknowledgment)
- Optional private consultation with AHI leadership
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to participate in research?
No. You can simply sign up to learn. If a study interests you, you can opt in.
Is my information private?
Yes. We use privacy-by-design practices, follow IRB-guided protocols, and let you control what you share.
Does it cost anything?
No. Joining the AHI community is free, but paid levels help support ongoing research and education.
Who is behind AHI?
The African Hair Institute is powered by The Carroll Lab, a bioinformatics and genomics initiative advancing inclusive hair science.