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Beyond the Red Itch: Understanding Complex Occupational Skin Conditions
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Beyond the Red Itch: Understanding Complex Occupational Skin Conditions

Moazzam Zaidi and Aiggan Tamene Kitila
Work and Health, Vol.2(3), 14
15/07/2026
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/10523/51968

Abstract

occupational skin disease contact dermatitis irritant allergen patch testing skin absorption chemical exposure occupational medicine
Occupational skin diseases (OSDs) represent one of the most prevalent categories of work-related illness, affecting workers across a broad spectrum of industries globally. Despite their high incidence, OSD remains frequently underdiagnosed and inadequately managed. This narrative review synthesises current knowledge on the anatomy and physiology of skin as the body’s primary biological barrier, the spectrum of occupational exposures responsible for skin pathology, and the clinical entities that arise from such exposures. The paper examines high-risk occupational groups, describes common diagnostic approaches, and outlines evidence-based management strategies. Emerging issues including the rising burden of acrylate sensitisation in the beauty industry, nanoparticle exposures, and pandemic-driven overuse of disinfectants are also discussed. The review concludes by outlining preventive strategies in line with the hierarchy of controls.
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Published (Version of record) Open Access CC BY V4.0
url
https://doi.org/10.53941/wah.2026.100014View
Published (Version of record) Open CC BY V4.0

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