Hair, nail, and skin changes during COVID 19 era

Authors

  • Anfal L. Al-Harbawi Dermatology Section/ Department of Medicine, Arab Board of Dermatology (FABHS Dermatology & Venereology)/ Mosul University, Iraq
  • Hala N. Alsalman Dermatology Section/ Department of Medicine/ Iraqi Board of Dermatology (FIBMS Dermatology & Venereology)/ Mosul University, Iraq
  • Qasim S. Al Chalabi University of Mosul image/svg+xml
  • Mohammad S. Saeed Dermatology Section, Al Sadir Teaching Hospital in Misan/ Arab Board of Dermatology (FABHS Dermatology & Venereology), Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.v31i3.1688

Abstract

Background In December 2019, unexplained cases of viral pneumonia caused by a new coronavirus pathogen (SARS-CoV-2) began to be reported in China, and the disease was called Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Guidelines issued by WHO and other agencies have been consistent about the need for physical distancing, respiratory protection with a face mask, hand wash, and use of disinfectant to clean frequently touched surfaces daily. Our aim is to identify the possible effects of the protective measures against COVID19 virus on the hair, nail and skin.

 

Objectives  To identify the possible effect of the protective methods against COVID19 virus on the hair, nail and skin.

 

Methods This study was conducted as a prospective cross‐sectional study using an online questionnaire. The participants were from different Iraqi cities. The study was carried out from the 1st of June to the end of August, 2020.

 

Results There were 1893 cases that reported different skin complains, 55% complained of hand dermatitis, and about 64% of cases showed mask marks and rashes. And more than 1228 patients complained of notable hair loss.  A significant number of participants reported brittle nails and dullness.

 

Conclusion  With balancing the benefits and the harm with support of strategies to protect the skin (using products devoid of common allergens, using products with added moisturizers, and applying moisturizers immediately after hand washing or before gloves use and healthy diet).

 

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Published

10.04.2022

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How to Cite

1.
Hair, nail, and skin changes during COVID 19 era. J Pak Assoc Dermatol [Internet]. 2022 Apr. 10 [cited 2026 Sep. 11];31(3):441-6. Available from: https://www.jpad.com.pk/index.php/jpad/article/view/1688