Factors related to skin health in hairdressing apprentices from two Croatian regions.

Abstract

Hairdressing apprentices are at high risk for developing occupational contact dermatitis. The objective of this study was to analyse whether there are differences in skin health, skin protection and health-related quality of life between apprentices from two Croatian regions (Zagreb and Dalmatia). Final-year hairdressing apprentices from Zagreb (n = 101) and Dalmatia (n = 77) were enrolled in the study. Clinical examination of hands was performed by use of the Osnabrück Hand Eczema Severity Index. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured on forearm and hand. A history of self-reported skin symptoms, work-related exposure to skin hazards and health-related quality of life were assessed with validated questionnaires. Apprentices from Zagreb reported having been engaged in practical work more days per month than Dalmatian apprentices (median 12 days vs 8 days, respectively, P < 0.001), and washing their hands >20 times per day more frequently (28% vs 10%, respectively, P = 0.004), and consequently more frequently having dry hands (37% vs 16%, respectively, P = 0.002), and significantly higher TEWL values on the hand and forearm, which was confirmed by the results obtained with multiple linear regression models. A higher extent of exposure to skin hazards was related to poorer skin barrier function, which confirms the need for improvement of appropriate safety practices in hairdressing schools.