PROTECTIVE GLOVES FOR HAIRDRESSERS - THE PROBLEM OF TESTING, CHOOSING, AND USAGE

Abstract

The number of occupational dermatoses (especially hand eczema) among hairdressers has doubled from 1978 to 1990. The prophylaxis of these eczemas has to be supported from various sides. Gloves allow personal protection of the skin. Currently however, no single glove can be advocated since not every glove can protect from every substance and satisfying tests have not been developed. The testing of three different glove materials as to the penetration of chemicals concluded with the fact, that all gloves either had material defects, were directly weakened by the chemicals, or were permeable to chemical molecules. The occlusive effect of the protective gloves, which are untight, allow substances to permeate the skin. Additionally, the horny layer here is more prone to penetration due to the air tight skin cover (glove).