A pilot study about photoprotection by the use of clothing

Abstract

Photoaging refers to the effects of long-term Ultraviolet (UV) exposure and sun damage which appears
as pigmentation, laxity, wrinkles, telangiectasia, a leathery appearance, and cutaneous malignancies.
Hair photodamage leads to loss of mechanical strength, luster and an increase in surface roughness.
The aim of this study was to compare the effect of sun exposure on the skin and hair among females
wearing scarves and those did not, we intend to have more clues to understand if scarves have a role
as a photoprotectant. This study included 150 females who are frequently exposed to the sun (4 to 6
h/day). They are classified into 2 groups: First group included 50 females without scarves while the
second group included 100 females with scarves which were subdivided into (70 females with ordinary
scarves and 30 females with nekab. This study revealed a significant association between wearing
scarves and traction alopecia, also protection of hair luster but there was no significant association
with diffuse hair loss. There was a significant association between hair loss and scarves multilayer but
no association with scarves fabrics. On the other hand, we found a significant association between
nekab and photoprotection of both wrinkles and pigmentation. We concluded that scarves may play a
role as photoprotectant. Continued studies to evaluate role of scarves as a photoprotectant is needed.