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BackgroundWe present a case series of 10, atopic, African women who developed irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) from synthetic hair extensions.MethodsTen consecutive African female patients who presented with a pruritic cutaneous eruption on the neck over a period of 2 years are described. Patients underwent skin patch testing using both standard and hair commercial patch test panels and samples of their own hair extensions. Hair care products were not tested.ResultsAll 10 patients used synthetic hair extensions. A strong history of atopy was documented for all the patients and examination was significant for eczematous, lichenified plaques at the location of contact with the free end of the hair extension. Patch test results yielded no relevant reactivity and a diagnosis of ICD was made for all patients. The lesions resolved completely on removal of the hair extensions and the use of topical steroids and emollients, dependent on eczema severity.ConclusionsArtificial hair extensions should be considered as a potential irritant, resulting in ICD. Patients with a history of atopy are at risk of developing ICD from synthetic hair extensions.

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Efforts to increase diversity have been put forth by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) to assist underrepresented in medicine (UIM) students during their pursuit of dermatology. Increasing diversity in dermatology relies on efforts from students and mentors established in dermatology. This article highlights and summarizes key guidelines from the SOCS.

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