Pharmacy Student Perceptions of Professional Appearance
Maryann Z Skrabal1, Ann M Ryan Haddad1, Kevin T Fuji1
1Creighton University.
American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education
|July 24, 2026
Summary
Student pharmacists perceive professional appearance (PA) as crucial for employment and career advancement. They believe visible tattoos, piercings, and unnatural hair color may hinder hiring and progression in the pharmacy field.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Education
- Professionalism Studies
- Healthcare Appearance Standards
Background:
- Professional appearance (PA) in healthcare is traditionally conservative.
- Societal trends show a move towards less conservative personal expression.
- Student pharmacists' views on PA are evolving and require understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate student pharmacists' perceptions of professional appearance.
- To assess the perceived impact of PA on education and employment.
- To understand how PA influences first impressions on patients and providers.
Main Methods:
- A voluntary 54-item survey was administered to pharmacy students (P1-P4).
- The survey explored perceptions of PA and its effect on professionalism, trust, and reliability.
- Quantitative (Likert-scale) and qualitative (thematic analysis) methods were used for data analysis.
Main Results:
- 69.3% of students believed visible tattoos/piercings and unnatural hair color could lead to hiring issues.
- 58.8% of students felt such appearances could cause career advancement difficulties.
- Six themes emerged, including personal beliefs vs. professional expectations and generational differences in PA.
Conclusions:
- Student perceptions of professional appearance vary significantly.
- Pharmacy schools must guide students on professional development amidst evolving appearance norms.
- Balancing personal expression with professional standards is key for future pharmacists.
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