Occupational Respiratory and Cutaneous Allergic Diseases in Hairdressers: A Two-center Study

Hairdressers are frequently exposed to various allergens in hair products, placing them at high risk for occupational allergic diseases such as allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and occupational asthma (OA). Despite the large number of hairdressers in Türkiye, data on occupational allergy risk are limited. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of occupational allergic diseases in hairdressers presenting with skin or respiratory complaints and to identify common workplace allergens.

We conducted a prospective, descriptive study of hairdressers aged 18 years or older with suspected occupational allergic disease who attended outpatient allergy clinics between 2020 and 2023. Participants underwent diagnostic tests, including skin prick tests, patch tests, pulmonary function tests, and specific inhalation challenges (SIC).

Thirty hairdressers (female/male: 18/12) were included. Although 93% of participants reported using personal protective equipment, allergic diseases remained prevalent. Participants had an average of 15.1 years of professional experience, worked nearly 11 hours per day, and spent the most time per day on hair dyeing (3.1 hours/day). Among the 21 participants (70%) with ACD symptoms, ammonium persulfate, potassium persulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), and nitro-p-phenylenediamine were the most common allergens. Ten participants (33%) were diagnosed with asthma, and SIC confirmed OA and/or occupational rhinitis in 3 cases (10%).

A considerable frequency of OA and ACD was observed among symptomatic hairdressers. Ammonium persulfate, CAPB, and nitro-p-phenylenediamine were identified as common triggers. The persistence of allergic diseases despite the use of protective equipment highlights the need for improved occupational health strategies, stronger regulations, and enhanced preventive measures in the hairdressing sector in Türkiye.