Survey of Hand Issues Encountered by Hairdressers and Hairdresser Related Professionals: From Epidemiological Data to Clinical Observational Survey Results

INTRODUCTION: Hand eczema is frequent among hairdressers. The aim of this open survey was (i) to assess the prevalence and identify causing factors of hand issues encountered by hairdressers and (ii) to assess the benefit of a cosmetic skin care in clinical signs and symptoms through a clinical observational survey. METHODS: The survey was conducted among 391 hairdressers and hairdresser-related professionals, collecting information on frequency of daily procedures, frequency/type/severity of hand issues, and glove usage. The satisfaction provided by a dermocosmetic containing niacinamide, glycerin, shea butter and thermal spring water was examined in an evaluation visit one month after survey initiation. RESULTS: Investigated subjects were mostly hairdressers (73%). In their daily procedures, a majority (≥76%) always or often used shampoos, hair dyes, oxidants, bleachers, straighteners and perms. Overall, a majority (>60%) of subjects always or often had hand irritation due to this use (except for straighteners). Most subjects (≥60%) reported using gloves in their procedures except with shampoos and straighteners. Among hand problems reported at survey initiation, the most intense was skin dryness, followed by redness, irritation, cracks, and fissures. Hand problems induced annoyance in their activities for most subjects (>65%), leading to discontinuation of their professional activities for 28% subjects. The test dermocosmetic was applied for 1 week up to 1 month. At evaluation visit (1 month), the intensity of all hand signs and symptoms was decreased compared to initiation visit. In addition, 58.3% subjects reported return to professional activities instantly at evaluation visit versus 31.3% at initial visit. Most subjects (≥73%) were satisfied or very satisfied with the test cream properties. CONCLUSION: Our survey confirms the impact of hand issues experienced by hairdresser professionals and highlights the need for gloves and for efficient hand care products.