Hairdressers

Abstract

Hairdressers have a lot of contact with their hands with water, irritants, and allergens. An irritative dermatitis, and even an allergic contactdermatitis, can easily occur. Hand eczema is a potentially severe drawback to the hairdressing profession, and an important factor on the quality of life. To achieve a long-lasting secondary prevention in cases of hand dermatitis the approach should focus on reduction of skin damaging factors, rather than on medical treatments. This timeconsuming intervention needs the combined expertise of occupational health and safety as well as dermatology. Patch testing is obligatory in all cases of dermatitis, but the interpretation of the results should be done carefully with respect to the relevancy and false positive or negative results. Patch testing with “own materials” from the hairdressers’ saloon is imperative. Knowlegde of testconcentrations is a prerequisite. Primary prevention by means of education in how to wear the right glove the right way and how to take care of their hands should be an major issue not only in the individual, but in the whole occupational group.