Latex Gloves

Latex gloves are a staple in medical environments, offering snug, comfortable protection while being lightweight and easy to use. These gloves come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, cream, and green. Although thin and delicate, they provide reliable coverage, with studies showing less than a 1% chance of viral penetration. Latex gloves can even be disinfected with ethanol, allowing for use over extended periods, up to 16 hours.

Types of Latex Gloves

• Powdered Latex Gloves: These gloves contain an inner powder to prevent the plastic material from sticking to the skin, making them easier to slip on. While early versions used calcium carbonate or lycopodium powder—which caused allergic reactions—modern powdered gloves use cornstarch. This change has made them far gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation.
• Non-Powdered Latex Gloves: Specifically designed for individuals sensitive to the powder in powdered gloves, these gloves offer a powder-free alternative. While they may take a bit more effort to wear, they’ve gained popularity for significantly reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Where They’re Used

• Medical Settings: Latex gloves are ideal for surgeries and examinations where tactile precision is key, as they fit like a second skin.
• Laboratories and Clinics: Powdered gloves are often the go-to choice here because of their ease of use.

Things to Keep in Mind

Even with advancements in glove design, some people are still allergic to the powder in powdered gloves. For these cases, nitrile gloves serve as an excellent alternative, offering similar functionality without the risk of irritation.