Cut cheaply, paid dearly: Why a skin fungus is spreading in barbershops
Formerly known mainly among wrestlers, the skin fungus Trichophyton tonsurans is currently spreading rapidly through barbershops. Hygiene is the main reason for the fungal infestation. Therefore, extreme caution is required.
It is highly contagious, penetrates the skin and causes red, scaly and itchy patches: the skin fungus Trichophyton tonsurans. While barbershops are very popular and trendy hairstyles from Midtaperfade to Edgar and Talahon are booming, more and more people are contracting the fungus from hairdressers and barbers. Dermatologists are concerned about how it is spreading, especially among young men and teenagers, and see a connection with the barbershop trend. Although the pathogen has been known for decades, the situation has worsened in recent months.
From the wrestling mat to the barber's chair: highly contagious and persistent
Originally known as "wrestling fungus", Trichophyton tonsurans has now made the leap into trendy barbershops. The infection often begins inconspicuously with reddish, scaly patches on the neck or head. These can spread over time and lead to purulent abscesses. In severe cases, there is even a risk of hair loss. Particularly insidious: up to two weeks can pass between infection and the first symptoms, which makes it difficult to investigate the cause.
Why does the fungus spread so rapidly
The main reason for the spread is a lack of hygiene. The skin fungus survives for weeks on objects and is easily transmitted through direct contact. This makes it particularly important to regularly disinfect all equipment, materials and surfaces in hairdressing salons and barbershops. However, many barbershops, which lure customers in with low prices, are forced to make huge savings due to price pressure - apparently including the thorough disinfection of shaving heads and blades. There is often no time for elaborate cleaning measures. In addition, there is often a lack of qualified staff or management with a master craftsman title, which makes compliance with hygiene standards even more difficult.
What you can do to prevent infection
To protect yourself from infection, you should not only pay attention to the price when choosing your hairdressing salon or barber shop, but above all to hygiene and professionalism. Extremely cheap offers are not a good sign. Shops without appointments should also make you wary: The focus here is on high throughput, which often leaves no time for extensive hygiene measures. Frequently changing staff can also be a warning sign. Take a look at the overall cleanliness of the salon. The toilets in particular are often a reflection of the overall hygiene. Don't hesitate to ask how often and with what the equipment is sanitised. A reputable salon will be happy to answer these questions. Also avoid sharing combs, brushes, razors etc. with others.
What to do in the event of infection
If you suspect you have been infected, visit a dermatologist immediately and inform the salon you last visited. There are effective remedies for skin fungus. However, treatment can take several months and must be carried out consistently. It is important not to stop the medication too early, even if the symptoms have already disappeared. <p
Science editor and biologist. I love animals and am fascinated by plants, their abilities and everything you can do with them. That's why my favourite place is always outside - somewhere in nature, preferably in my wild garden.