DERMATOPHYTIC CONTAMINATION OF SOME HAIR SALON TOOLS WITHIN KANO METROPOLIS

Abstract

Dermatophytes are infectious fungi that colonize keratinized tissues, causing superficial mycoses in humans and animals. This study investigated the prevalence and distribution of dermatophytic contamination on hair salon tools within the Kano metropolis, Nigeria. A total of 60 swab samples were collected from combs, clippers, and brushes across 20 randomly selected salons spanning four local government areas. Samples were cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and incubated at 25°C for 7–14 days, followed by identification using morphological features. The overall prevalence of dermatophyte contamination was 83.3% (50/60), with the highest contamination rates recorded in Local Governments 3 and 4 (100% each). Among the tools, combs showed the highest contamination (40.0%), followed by clippers (25.0%) and brushes (18.3%). Seven dermatophyte species were identified, with Microsporum gypseum (20.0%), Trichophyton violaceum (16.7%), and T. tonsurans (15.0%) being the most common. The findings underscore a significant risk of fungal transmission in hair salons due to poor hygiene and disinfection practices. This study highlights the urgent need for improved sanitation protocols and awareness among salon operators to reduce the spread of dermatophytic infections in the community.