A wide prevalence of socio-religious and cultural practices in the Asian subcontinent often leads to multitude of
skin diseases which may be missed by the dermatologists because of a lack of awareness. 'Henna' use causes
IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions and
contact dermatitis. 'Kumkum' application can result in pigmented
contact dermatitis and
lichen planus pigmentosus. Sticker 'bindis' and 'alta' induce contact leukoderma.
Irritant and
allergic contact dermatitis occurs after playing with 'Holi' colors. Threading and drawstring
dermatitis lead to koebnerization of pre-existing
dermatoses,
infections and even
squamous cell carcinoma of skin. Mild
irritant reactions and contact sensitization occur secondary to balm and hair oil use. 'Mudichood' represents the comedogenic effect of hair
oils combined with occlusion and humidity.
Aromatherapy oils can cause
contact dermatitis and photosensitive reactions.
Heavy metal and
steroid toxicity along with severe cutaneous adverse effects like
erythroderma can occur as a consequent to the use of alternative medicines.
Squamous cell carcinoma due to chronic heat exposure from the heating device "kangri" is seen in Kashmiris. Prayer nodules in Muslims and
traction alopecia in Sikhs illustrate how religious practices can negatively affect the skin. With increasing globalization and migration, the practice of indigenous customs and traditions is no longer limited to regional territories, making it imperative for the dermatologists to be acquainted with the cutaneous side effects they can cause.