Does Hijab or Dupatta Cause Skin Problems? Common Issues We See

Does Hijab or Dupatta Cause Skin Problems? Common Issues We See

By Dr. Rizwan Khan | Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

📅 25 June 2025

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“Doctor, main roz hijab leti hoon. Kya is wajah se mere chehre pe pimples ho rahe hain?”

“Dupatta lene se gardan pe rashes ho jate hain, koi solution hai kya?”

These are real questions we hear almost daily at our clinic.

Many women who wear hijab, dupatta, niqab, or even chunni across their face or neck face common skin issues — but most don’t know why it’s happening or how to manage it.

Let’s break it down in simple, practical language.

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☁️ Fabric Covering = Friction + Sweat + Heat

When cloth touches your skin for hours — especially in summer or while travelling — it creates a moist, warm, and air-blocked environment.

This can lead to:

• Friction (rubbing on cheeks, forehead, neck)

• Sweat trapping

• Blocked pores

• Bacteria buildup

Now imagine wearing that every day — the skin can’t breathe properly, and this often results in:

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👇 Common Skin Problems Caused by Hijab or Dupatta Use

1. Acne on the Jawline, Cheeks, and Forehead

This is called “frictional acne” or even “fabric acne”.

When the cloth rubs and traps sweat, it clogs pores → leads to breakouts.

🔹 Looks like:

Small pimples, whiteheads, or red bumps under where hijab/dupatta touches

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2. Rashes or Redness on Neck

When the dupatta keeps brushing against the neck, and sweat builds up — it causes irritation or fungal rash.

🔹 Common in:

• Hot, humid weather

• People with sensitive skin or allergies to synthetic fabric

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3. Darkness or Pigmentation on Sides of Face / Chin

Constant rubbing over time causes post-inflammatory pigmentation, especially if you already have sensitive or acne-prone skin.

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4. Fungal Infections (Ringworm)

Moist, covered areas like behind the ears, under chin, or on the neck are perfect for fungus to grow.

🔹 Looks like:

Red, itchy, round patches with mild burning

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5. Dullness & Texture Issues

When skin is always covered and sweating under cloth, it may start looking:

• Rough

• Uneven

• Tired

• Dehydrated

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🧕 This Doesn’t Mean You Should Stop Wearing Hijab or Dupatta.

Not at all.

But you can prevent or reduce skin problems by making small smart changes.

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✅ Smart Tips to Keep Skin Healthy Under Hijab or Dupatta

1. Choose breathable fabric – Prefer cotton, soft linen over polyester or synthetic material

2. Wash your hijab/dupatta daily or every alternate day – Repeating dirty cloth causes breakouts

3. Avoid tight styles that press cloth too hard on forehead or jaw

4. Use a gentle face wash twice a day – especially after removing hijab

5. Apply a lightweight moisturiser and sunscreen even if you’re covering your face

6. Use non-comedogenic (pimple-safe) skincare

7. Dusting antifungal powder in hot weather behind ears or neck helps prevent rashes

8. Keep a backup clean scarf in your bag if your current one gets sweaty during the day

9. At night, let your skin breathe – keep it cloth-free while you sleep

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👨‍⚕️ Dr. Rizwan’s Note:

We completely understand and respect cultural and personal clothing choices.

The goal is not to stop wearing hijab or dupatta — the goal is to wear it in a skin-friendly way.

At our clinic, we help many hijab-wearing women manage acne, fungal infections, and pigmentation that comes from long hours of fabric use.

With the right care, your skin can stay healthy and glowing.

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Final Thoughts

Yes, hijab or dupatta can cause skin issues — but only if proper hygiene and skincare aren’t followed.

With a few simple changes, these issues are easy to prevent.

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📍Having skin problems under your hijab or dupatta?

Come visit Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

📲 Call or WhatsApp for a customised skin routine that suits your style and comfort.

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💬 Comment below:

Do you cover your face or hair daily? What skin issues do you face and how do you handle them?

Let’s open up the conversation—without judgement.

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