Peer Review Report For: Pattern Changes of Cutaneous Dermatoses Among Iraqi Women Preceding and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
December 2022
TLDR During COVID-19, Iraqi women saw more hair loss and skin issues like acne due to stress, masks, and hygiene habits.
The study on 2,657 Iraqi women revealed significant changes in cutaneous dermatoses patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a notable increase in hair loss, particularly telogen effluvium. Viral infections decreased due to reduced social interactions, while conditions like acne vulgaris and rosacea increased, likely due to mask-wearing. Seborrheic dermatitis rose alongside acne, and irritant contact dermatitis increased due to antiseptic use and frequent washing. Other conditions such as psoriasis, alopecia areata, and melasma decreased, though not significantly. The study suggested these changes were related to COVID-19 infection, stress, and lifestyle changes during the pandemic, but was limited by its single-center scope and short data collection period.