Hairdresser’s eczema, the nightmare of every hairstylist… Hairdressers are exposed daily to various chemicals and allergens, which makes them highly vulnerable to a wide range of skin problems. This condition is called hairdresser’s allergy and refers to allergic reactions and skin irritations caused by contact with allergenic ingredients in hair products.
Perhaps you’ve already noticed some early symptoms of hairdresser’s eczema? Or maybe you are certain you’re dealing with the first stages of it and want to know how to treat it? Or maybe you don’t have symptoms yet, but you want to learn how to prevent hairdresser’s eczema for good, so you never have to face this painful experience?
This article provides a clear and practical overview for everyone dealing with hairdresser’s allergy and the solutions available! Yes, you read that right: you don’t have to quit your profession as a hairdresser.
Everything starts with allergens. These are the substances that can trigger allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them. In the hairdressing industry, this includes a wide range of chemicals found in shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes, and styling products.
Hairdresser’s allergy refers to allergic reactions that hairstylists can develop after repeated exposure to hair care products containing allergenic substances.
Hairdresser’s eczema is a form of contact dermatitis specifically affecting hairdressers due to frequent contact with irritating substances and allergens in hair care products.
There are two main types of hairdresser’s eczema:
Irritant contact dermatitis: caused by repeated exposure to irritating substances such as water, shampoos, and cleaning agents. It leads to dryness, redness, and irritation of the skin.
Allergic contact dermatitis: caused by an allergic reaction to specific chemicals in hair products. Symptoms are usually more severe and include itching, blistering, and swelling.
Recognizing the symptoms of hairdresser’s eczema is crucial. Every hairstylist should be informed about this. Detecting it early makes it possible to get a diagnosis and act immediately. A hairdresser’s allergy can seriously disrupt and limit daily salon work.
So, to the point: what are the main symptoms of hairdresser’s eczema? There are many possible signs, which also vary in severity. Here are the most common:
Itchy skin on hands, fingers, and wrists
Redness and irritation of the skin
Blisters and crusting on affected areas
Dry, flaky skin on the hands
Swelling and inflammation of the skin
Burning or stinging sensation
Cracks and fissures in the skin, especially around fingertips
Thickening of the skin on palms and fingers
Sensitivity to specific chemicals and ingredients
Painful, tender skin when touched
Hairdresser’s eczema can affect different parts of the body, depending on the type of work and level of exposure:
Hairdresser’s eczema on the face: occurs when hairdressers get chemical products (such as hair dye or hair care) on their skin or when allergens come into contact with the face. This can happen through contaminated hands or chemical vapors.
Hairdresser’s hands: the most common area affected. Due to constant exposure to water and hair products, the hands usually suffer the most.
Hairdresser’s eczema and skin problems across the body: although the face and hands are most often affected, symptoms can also appear elsewhere, such as the back or neck.
In-depth analysis of allergenic chemicals in hair products
Many hair products contain chemicals that can be irritating or trigger allergies. It’s essential to understand which ingredients are present and how they contribute to allergic reactions. Sensitive individuals may develop irritations or other negative effects. But here’s the challenge: hairdressers are exposed daily to substances that can trigger the onset of hairdresser’s eczema.
Do you want to learn how to recognize them? Here’s a starting point. Keep in mind that there are countless different chemicals and ingredients that can form the basis of hairdresser’s allergies, it’s impossible to list them all!
Some of the most common allergens and irritants include:
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD): a widely used ingredient in hair dyes.
Nickel: found in certain metal tools and hair clips.
Latex: used in gloves and other accessories.
Resorcinol: a chemical component in some hair dyes.
Formaldehyde: present in certain hair treatments, such as keratin treatments.
Parabens: preservatives in shampoos and conditioners.
Thioglycolates: used in permanent waving solutions and chemical relaxers.
Sulfates (SLS and SLES): common in shampoos.
Cocamidopropyl betaine: a foaming agent that helps products lather.
Fragrance (parfum): added to many hair products for scent, but a frequent allergen.
Alcohol: used in hairspray and styling products, which can cause dryness and irritation.
Acrylates: present in some nail and hair extension products.
Kathon CG (Methylisothiazolinone): a preservative often found in shampoos and conditioners.
Lanolin: used in some conditioners and hair masks.
Quaternium-15: a preservative that releases formaldehyde.
Glutaraldehyde: found in certain hair treatment products.
Isopropyl Myristate: used to give hair products a smooth texture.
Hairdresser’s eczema contagious? Absolutely not! It is not an infectious disease. Why? Simple: it only develops when a hairdresser comes into direct contact with certain chemicals—it cannot be passed from person to person.
If hairdresser’s eczema were contagious, it would spread from one stylist to another, which is not the case.
Instead of focusing on laws that vary by country, every salon can implement universal best practices to reduce the risk of eczema and allergies:
Limit direct skin contact: always use protective gloves when working with hair dyes, shampoos, or chemical treatments.
Improve ventilation: ensure the salon is well-ventilated to reduce exposure to chemical vapors.
Moisturize and protect skin: regular use of barrier creams and moisturizers strengthens the skin against irritants.
Choose safer products: opt for hair products with fewer harsh chemicals, or select certified allergen-free alternatives.
Educate staff: make sure every team member is trained on skin protection and early recognition of symptoms.
By applying these preventive measures, hairdressers worldwide can greatly reduce the risk of developing occupational skin conditions.
Many hairstylists wonder whether they need to give up their career because of hairdresser’s eczema. While this is a personal decision, there are many ways to manage the condition and continue working. Using safe products and maintaining good hygiene can significantly reduce its impact.
Choosing products free from irritants can make a huge difference. Whenever possible, select hair products made with natural ingredients. Ingredients of natural origin are often hypoallergenic, meaning the risk of allergic reactions is minimal to almost nonexistent.
Note: there are always exceptions. That’s why it’s important to do a patch test on the arm before using new products.
The Hairborist concept was born from the allergy of its founder, Frédéric, to traditional (synthetic) hair products. No shampoo on the market suited his skin. Aromatherapy turned out to be the solution.
The Hairborist philosophy in summary:
Gentle, natural, and organic ingredients that respect the skin’s natural state, making them suitable even for sensitive individuals.
Sustainable products: eco-friendly and responsible in sourcing, production, and distribution.
Safe for everyone: not tested on animals and safe for both clients and hairdressers themselves, something not all brands can guarantee. Stylists are often at greater risk due to daily, repeated exposure to synthetic dyes and chemicals.
Oil-based care = extra protection: oils not only nourish hair but can also soothe hairdresser’s eczema during flare-ups, and once healed, help prevent it. With Hairborist’s frequent use of plant oils, “hairdresser’s hands” (eczema typically affecting the hands) are protected against dryness.
It’s not always possible to work 100% naturally. Some clients are not suitable for plant-based coloring (for example, those who frequently change hair color, want balayage, or need bleaching). These services still require chemical processes.
That’s why maintaining excellent hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of skin irritation from prolonged or repeated exposure.
Wash hands regularly: wash your hands with mild soap after every treatment to remove product residues. Since water dries out the skin, follow with a nourishing plant oil such as jojoba oil to hydrate and restore the skin barrier.
Keep the salon clean: ensure the workspace is free from chemical buildup. Regularly clean surfaces and tools to reduce the chance of skin irritation.
Education and training: attend workshops and courses on safe working practices and new product developments. Knowledge is key to preventing occupational skin problems.
Skin monitoring: keep an eye on your skin’s health and consult a dermatologist at the first signs of irritation or allergy. A specialist can recommend tailored treatments.
Good ventilation: provide proper air circulation in the salon to minimize exposure to chemical vapors.
Protective equipment: use high-quality gloves and protective gear for yourself and your team to reduce direct contact with irritants.
