Prevalence of dermatoses among hairdressers and beauticians in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, India

Abstract

Background: Skin disorders among hairdressers and beauticians have been recognized as a common problem, owing to the prolonged exposure to a variety of irritants and allergens. Objectives: The aim was to study the prevalence of dermatoses among hairdressers and beauticians in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, India. Methods: The study was conducted on 100 respondents from 57 salons and parlors located within the borders of the city. Detailed history taking and complete examination were performed during personal visits. Patch tests were performed with the Indian standard series on all participants. Results: The mean age of the study sample was 24.3 ± 6.3 years. 54% of the studied cases were found to suffer from one or more skin disorders. Hand eczema was the most commonly encountered dermatosis, observed in 32% of the cases. Three patterns of hand eczema were recognized: classic (14%), interdigital (6%), and threading (8%). Callosities were seen in 19% of the cases. We employed the term scissor nodule for the typical pattern of a callosity caused by the finger rings of scissors. Nail staining was encountered in 19%. The most common allergens leading to a positive patch test were found to be paraphenylenediamine (PPD) in thirteen cases, followed by a fragrance mix in nine, nickel sulfate in nine, thiuram in three, and formaldehyde in one. Conclusion: Skin disorders are common among hairdressers and beauticians. Raising awareness of these disorders and methods of their prevention among this group is imperative.