A fresh skin fade might be the ultimate confidence boost, but an alarming warning has been issued to men across the UK. A rise in cases of scalp ringworm, linked to unclean barber tools, has sparked calls for stricter regulations in the hairdressing industry.
Skin Fades and the Hidden Risk
The popularity of skin fades has soared, but experts warn that improper cleaning of foil clippers is putting customers at risk. Mike Taylor, a barber trainer from Dorset, highlighted that disinfecting these tools properly takes around 10 minutes—a step some budget barbers may skip. This negligence has led to a surge in scalp ringworm cases, also known as tinea capitis.
Ringworm, despite its name, is not caused by worms but by a fungal infection. The NHS describes its symptoms as an itchy, scaly rash, often circular in shape, that can appear anywhere on the body. When contracted on the scalp, it requires specific treatment, usually involving antifungal medications.
The infection spreads through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or unclean tools. This makes barber shops a hotspot if proper hygiene isn’t maintained.
Taylor’s concerns resonate across the industry. Gareth Penn of the Hair and Barber Council has called for a mandatory register for barbers to ensure proper training and accountability. Currently, registration is voluntary, leaving the door open for untrained individuals to operate in the sector.
Penn warns that cost-cutting in the competitive barbering market compromises hygiene and skill, increasing risks for customers. However, a government spokesperson has stated there are no plans to regulate the sector but remains open to evidence-based recommendations.
For now, experts urge customers to prioritize quality over price when choosing a barber. A cheap trim might save money, but your health should always come first. Don’t let a bad haircut become a lasting problem.
