Let's cut it out

The Council have launched a campaign to tackle work-related skin diseases within the hairdressing industry.

The Bad Hand Day campaign is a national initiative to raise awareness of dermatitis, an inflammatory condition of the skin that causes dryness, itching, redness, flaking and blistering.

There are two types that can affect hairdressers: allergic reactions, which are caused by sensitising agents in hair dyes; and irritant contact that can develop after exposure to chemicals or water.

Michael Georgiou, Principal Environmental Health Officer, said: “Up to 70% of hairdressers suffer from skin damage. Our message is keep your hands healthy and wave goodbye to bad hand days.

"There are five simple steps on how to wave goodbye to bad hand days: wear disposable non-latex gloves when rinsing, shampooing, colouring, bleaching; dry your hands thoroughly with a soft cotton or paper towel; moisturise after washing your hands, as well as at the start and end of each day; change gloves between clients and make sure you don't contaminate your hands when you take them off; and check skin regularly for early signs of dermatitis."

The environmental health team are handing out free promotional materials to local businesses, which includes a skin cream, pair of gloves, appointment cards and information on dermatitis. The team is also making visits to salons to promote safety standards.

Further information is available from the environmental health department on 020 8207 2277 or visit www.badhandday.hse.gov.uk