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[Scalp burns induced by hair bleaching]
P Bouschon1, A-C Bursztejn1, J Waton1
1Service de dermatologie-allergologie, CHRU Brabois, 6, rue du Morvan, 54500 Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France.
Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie
|March 19, 2018
Summary
Hair bleaching can cause severe scalp burns and scarring alopecia due to chemical reactions. This case highlights the importance of understanding these risks for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Hair bleaching procedures commonly use hydrogen peroxide and persulfates.
- Adverse effects like scalp burns from these chemicals are underreported.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old girl developed scarring alopecia from a deep scalp burn after hair bleaching.
- The burn resulted in a painful, oozing ulceration on the vertex.
Findings:
- The chemical burn mechanism involves an oxidation reaction in a basic medium.
- Delayed lesion appearance may be due to surfactant formation by the bleaching agents.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe injury from cosmetic hair treatments.
- Increased awareness among healthcare professionals and consumers regarding bleaching risks is crucial.
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