MIAMI — Many black women experience adverse events and dissatisfaction stemming from their hair care practices, but few seek medical advice, results of a survey presented at an international symposium sponsored by L'Oréal Institute for Ethnic Hair and Skin Research indicate.
“A few years ago, I noticed scalp and hair conditions were a common complaint among black women in my practice,” said Dr. Maria C. Rios, a clinical dermatologist in Montevideo, Uruguay. Physicians “need to recognize scalp and hair conditions associated with some procedures used by this ethnic group.”
All 42 adult women (aged 18–60 years) surveyed used chemical or physical hair straightening techniques. Hair and scalp disorders occurred in 70% of respondents.
Following a physical examination and clinical photography, each woman completed a brief questionnaire, noting how satisfied they were with the ethnic or natural aspect of their hair, hair care practices, and any clinical presentations related to hairstyle management. The majority, 37 women, reported dissatisfaction with the ethnic aspect of their hair. A total of 26 reported a history of dermatologic lesions or other scalp/hair conditions.
Twenty women experienced irritant contact dermatitis after use of a chemical relaxer. Nine used a commercial brand and 11 used a product with “banana extract.” Although participants reported great hair straightening results with banana extract, all who used it experienced stinging, burning, itchiness, flaking, and/or pain, Dr. Rios said at the meeting, which was also sponsored by Howard University.
Seven women reported scarring alopecia; five attributed the condition to chemical use, one to thermal hair treatment, and another to both practices. Three participants reported nonscarring alopecia related to their hair care.
One of the 26 women experienced allergic dermatitis after use of a chemical relaxer and hair dye at almost the same time, Dr. Rios said. A total of six women experienced burns, four from chemicals and two from hair ironing. A total of 16 women reported temporary hair loss and breakage. Interestingly, only four of these women sought medical advice.