Citation

Shah AK, Schreuder FB. Inj. Extra 2009; 40(11): 251-252.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.injury.2009.07.074

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article discusses the topic of paediatric contact burns sustained from an increasingly common household product, the hair straightener. An illustrative case report is described and a discussion on the device and the logistics of the burns it can cause is included. It is paramount for those clinicians working with the paediatric population to be aware of the full spectrum of injuries sustainable and their mechanistics so as to ensure correct diagnosis and maintain accurate clinical acumen. Questions are also posed as to the safety of these devices and several tips that should be recommended to the user.

A greater emphasis for consumer education and a call for further discussion with industry need to take place. The potential dangers should be highlighted amongst the user population and appropriate safety standards discussed with industry. Given the time already lapsed since the first observations of this injury type in 2003 and its increasing incidence, if sufficient measures are not taken, this preventable cause of predominantly paediatric burns with the potential to result in considerable permanent disfigurement will continue to rise.