Dermal Risk Assessment in Nail Technicians Exposed to Dibutyl Phthalate and Toluene Using Dream Model; [ارزیابی خطر مواجهه پوستی در تکنسینهای ناخنکار مواجهه یافته با دیبوتیل فتالات و تولوئن با استفاده از Dream مدل] Publisher



Kowsar S ; Zeverdeqani SK
Source: Journal of Health System Research Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) are found in many consumer products, including cosmetics and nail polishes used in beauty salons. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the concentrations of toluene and DBP in the air of nail salons and assess the risk of dermal exposure using the Dermal Exposure Assessment Method (DREAM) for these two substances. Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 in 10 nail salons in Isfahan City, Iran, which were selected through random sampling. To evaluate the concentrations of toluene and DBP, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 1501 and NIOSH 5020 methods were used, respectively. Additional data were collected using questionnaires that included demographic information about the employees, symptoms of diseases related to the substances used, and personal protective equipment (PPE). The DREAM model was employed to assess the risk of dermal exposure to these two substances. Findings: Toluene concentrations ranged from 0.33 ppm to 11.78 ppm, while DBP concentrations varied from 0.11 ppm to 4.72 ppm. The results of the dermal risk assessment for toluene and DBP indicated that exposure in emission, deposition, and transfer was the highest for the forearms, hands, and torso front. The dermal risk assessment ranking was obtained using the DREAM model, and the results showed that the concentration of toluene in the salons was relatively high. Conclusion: Nail technicians are exposed to concentrations of toluene and DBP in their workplace, and the risk assessment of dermal exposure to these compounds ranged from moderate to high. Based on the findings, researchers recommend that this group of workers use PPE such as appropriate gloves and masks. Additionally, future research should focus on the design and implementation of ventilation systems to improve safety for this occupational group. © 2025, The Author(s).