Self-application of a protective cream. Pitfalls of occupational skin protection.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if a protective cream (PC) is adequately applied to the hands by workers in several occupations and to quantify what areas are covered or missed.


METHODS
Prospective diagnostic study.


METHODS
Metalworking factory, construction sites, and university hospital.


METHODS
One hundred fifty healthy volunteers (50 from each setting) were recruited for a questionnaire interview and typical self-application of a PC.


METHODS
None.


METHODS
Percentage of sufficient cover with PC as assessed with fluorescence under Wood light.


RESULTS
Many areas were skipped when viewed under Wood light. The application of PC was incomplete, especially on the dorsal aspects of the hands.


CONCLUSIONS
Individuals should be made aware of the most commonly missed regions to ensure complete skin protection. This simple method is a useful adjunct to quantify self-application and in worker education.
Wigger-Alberti
W
W
Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland.
Maraffio
B
B
Wernli
M
M
Elsner
P
P
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000328:Adult; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D005453:Fluorescence; D006225:Hand / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006266:Health Education; D006785:Hospitals, University; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008669:Metallurgy; D010564:Personnel, Hospital; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012646:Self Administration; D012867:Skin / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D017592:Skin Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D003879:Dermatologic Agents