Skin Creams Work Hand-in-Glove With PPE
By Darin Hargraves
When used in conjunction with other forms of personal protective equipment (PPE),
protective skin creams can block exposure to hazardous cleaning chemicals by bonding to
dead, exfoliating cells of the skin's epidermal layer.
The major ingredient of the cream should be water, not emollient oils. Emollient oils
may weaken latex gloves and leave fingerprints on clean surfaces.
Application
Thoroughly wash hands and other areas to be protected to remove residue and loose skin
particles. Place a small amount of protective skin cream on the area to be protected and
work into the skin with the fingertips. Rub briskly until the cream completely disappears
and friction warms the skin. Special attention should be given to the webbing between
fingers, under the nails and cuticles.
Benefits
Protective skin creams can reduce sweating and protect hands from the chemical
compounds found in latex gloves. Over time, some people experience allergic reactions to
latex gloves. This can be caused by hand sweating and reactions to the powders, proteins
and accelerators found in the gloves.
Protective skin creams can guard against dry skin caused by long exposure to soapy
water. Detergents attack the natural oils and pH balance of the skin.
Applying protective creams before working with motor oils and paint can make cleanup
easier by preventing the substances from soaking into the pores of the skin.
Darin Hargraves is owner of Hargraves Supply, a janitorial supply distributor in
Ketchikan, AK.
Copyright© 1996 National Trade Publications, Inc.
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