What are latex allergies and other skin reactions to latex?
There are three types of reactions that can occur in people using latex products. These conditions are Irritant Contact Dermatitis, Chemical Sensitivity Dermatitis and Latex Allergy. The most common reaction is Irritant Contact Dermatitis. The symptoms of Irritant Contact Dermatitis are dry, itchy and irritated areas on the hands caused by skin irritation from frequent use of gloves, repeated hand washing and exposure to cleaners and sanitizers. This condition is not a true allergy. Chemical Sensitivity Dermatitis is a condition resulting from exposure to chemicals that were added to the latex during the time of manufacture. The symptom of Chemical Sensitivity Dermatitis is a rash that usually begins 24 – 48 hours after contact that could result in blisters. Latex allergy is a reaction to the proteins found in latex. The proteins responsible for latex allergies have been proven to fasten to the powder that is used in some latex gloves. The powder in the glove does not cause the allergi
