Background: Hairdressing apprentices are at high risk for developing occupational contact dermatitis. Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyse whether there are differences in skin health, skin protection and health-related quality of life between apprentices from two Croatian regions (Zagreb and Dalmatia). Materials and methods: Final-year hairdressing apprentices from Zagreb (n = 101) and Dalmatia (n = 77) were enrolled in the study. Clinical examination of hands was performed by use of the Osnabrück Hand Eczema Severity Index. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured on forearm and hand. A history of self-reported skin symptoms, work-related exposure to skin hazards and health-related quality of life were assessed with validated questionnaires. Results: Apprentices from Zagreb reported having been engaged in practical work more days per month than Dalmatian apprentices (median 12 days vs 8 days, respectively, P < 0.001), and washing their hands >20 times per day more frequently (28% vs 10%, respectively, P = 0.004), and consequently more frequently having dry hands (37% vs 16%, respectively, P = 0.002), and significantly higher TEWL values on the hand and forearm, which was confirmed by the results obtained with multiple linear regression models. Conclusions: A higher extent of exposure to skin hazards was related to poorer skin barrier function, which confirms the need for improvement of appropriate safety practices in hairdressing schools. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
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