P-69 “Letting our hair down”- Practices of Chemical Hair Relaxer, Texturizer and Straightener Use amongst Women in New Providence, The Bahamas
Author(s):
T Bethel-Mims , C Conliffe , S Pinder-Butler , H Orlander , R Clare-Kleinbussink , M Frankson
Year of Presentation:
2023
Objective: This study aimed to assess the practices of chemical hair relaxers, texturizers, and chemical hair straightener use among women in New Providence and to determine if these substances were harmful.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted within women’s social and civic groups and at the Elizabeth Estates Clinic using a self-administered questionnaire. Convenience sampling was used, statistical analysis was done, and bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine associations between practices and disorders reported.
Results: Women between the ages 18 and 70 completed 480 surveys, the mean age being 39.3 (±12.8) years. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) reported was 30.8kg/m2. Almost all participants (95.8%) used chemical hair straighteners previously. Most had used hair relaxers (87.1%), Most processed their hair for less than 15 minutes (62.9%), most used neutralizing shampoo to remove the product (83.7%), and (60,7%) were prompted to remove the product by a burning sensation. The most common problems experienced included hair breakage (30.4%), split ends (27.3%), chemical burns to the scalp (25.8%), scalp irritation (18.0%), brittle frizzy hair (16.7%), dandruff (12.5%), receding hairline/ edges (8.2%) and temporary hair loss (8.0%).
Conclusion: The findings in this study suggest that participants largely adhered to the recommended use of these products. There is an association between hair relaxers and texturizer use and BMI/obesity and dermatologic adverse effects. These results can be used to inform physicians and advise women on product use.