TO ASSESS THE DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF COLOURED AND PERFUMED HAIR OILS ASSOCIATED CONTACT DERMATITIS

Abstract

Background & Method: The aim of this study is to assess the demographic characteristics of coloured & perfumed hair oils associated contact dermatitis. The CPHOs available in the market are the mixture of different oils, where concentration of mineral oils & vegetable oils can reach up to 80% & 40% in several preparations, respectively. Other components being essential oils, herbal extracts vitamin E, camphor, menthol, preservatives, colours and anti-oxidants. Exact percentages of different CPHO ingredients are very difficult to obtain.

Result: We have found a decrease in incidences of CPHO associated dermatitis with age. The coconut oil, almond oil, amla oil was more commonly associated with age group below 40 years, where olive oil induced dermatitis were exclusively found in age group between 18 to 25 years.

Conclusion: Our daily lives of cultural beliefs influence & have the potential to introduce health hazards, & in this era of globalization, cultural practices cut across geographical boundaries. Our study provides evidence towards a possible association of application    of coloured & perfumed hair oils with contact dermatitis. With large proportion of population practicing the culture of hair oil application & with changing pattern towards the use of CPHO.

Keywords: demographic, coloured, perfumed & hair dermatitis.

Study Designed: Observational Study