Effectiveness of Skin Protection Measures Among Hairdressing Apprentices in Croatia: Results of a Follow-Up Study

Hairdressers apprentices (HA) are exposed to skin hazards during vocational education.

To assess the use of protective gloves and moisturisers, and their relationship with parameters of skin barrier function and hand eczema (HE) among HAs during their 3-year education.

HAs from 25 Croatian schools were followed up at the end of each of the school years (N = 337, 317, and 174, respectively). Protocol included a questionnaire with evaluation of self-reported skin symptoms, glove use, and skin care during practical training, Osnabrueck Hand Eczema Severity Index (OHSI) for clinical skin assessment, skin pH, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements.

The use of protective gloves and moisturisers was insufficiently implemented throughout the schooling. Glove usage was related to lower hand TEWL at the 1st follow-up and lower OHSI at the 2nd follow-up. Use of moisturisers was related to lower skin pH at the 1st follow-up. During the 3rd follow-up, glove usage was related to higher OHSI and skin pH, and use of moisturisers was associated with clinical signs of HE.

Results suggest a positive effect of protective measures on skin barrier function and prevention of HE during the first 2 years of schooling. Their insufficient implementation from the beginning of education results in late implementation at a secondary prevention level.