CONTACT-DERMATITIS IN HAIRDRESSER TRAINEES IN NIEDERSACHSEN (GERMANY)

Abstract

The number of reports concerning occupational diseases in hairdressers has steadily increased in past years. Two-thirds of these reports are from 16-21 year old trainees. We polled 4008 trainees in Niedersachsen concerning occupational contact dermatitis. The results are: - 13 % of the trainees do not undergo the occupational medical exam although this is required by law. In 11 %, sensitivity and skin changes exist before the traineeship. - 14 % can be classified as atopic on account of own recollection, 19 % have an atopic diathesis based on family history. - The amount of wet work is flagrantly high during the traineeship. - Protective measures, i.e. wearing gloves, are only done by 79 % while dying hair. - In over 70 % of the trainees, skin changes appear during the traineeship, while in 30 % severe skin changes appear. - 20 % are forced to give up their job as a result of contact dermatitis.