Occupational hairdressers’ dermatosis

Hairdressing is a high-risk sector for occupational dermatosis. Hairdressers handle many products that can be sources of occupational eczema.

How does hairdresser's eczema manifest itself?

Occupational hairdressers' dermatoses mainly affect the hands: the palm, the back of the hands, but also the pulp of the fingers.

Several symptoms may appear:

dry

, thick, cracked skin, red plaques, itching, blisters, etc.

In the long term, occupational eczema prevents the hairdresser from practicing their profession in good conditions. Occupational hairdressers' dermatosis is then classified

What are the products involved in hairdressers' eczema?

Hair products are rich in chemical substances to wash, color, fix or give shine to the hair. These substances are both irritating and allergenic, hence the risk of irritative and/or allergic occupational eczema. The most frequent allergies among hairdressers are allergies to coloring due to the presence of highly allergenic pigments. Allergy to a shampoo or hairspray is also possible.

Occupational hairdressers’ dermatoses are aggravated by humidity: hands are bathed in water from the styling basin for shampoos and care products, which promotes hand irritation.

At the same time, hairdressers may develop an allergy to scissors or other metal instruments in connection with a nickel or chromium allergy.

How can you avoid hairdressers' eczema?

To avoid an occupational dermatosis at the hairdresser's, it is recommended to wear gloves. Wearing gloves limits contact with chemicals on the one hand and water on the other, but gloves sometimes hinder the hairdresser when handling and sculpting the hair. Select gloves that are both flexible and resistant. Allergy to gloves is possible, especially if they are made of latex. Other materials are available (vinyl, nitrile).

At the same time, do not neglect hand cleansing and care. Keep hands clean and dry as much as possible. Apply an insulating barrier cream regularly, before and during the working day.

To avoid allergy to dyes, on the hairdresser's side as well as on the client's side, prefer natural or plant-based dyes, and always remember to read the labels carefully.