Best Disposable Gloves for Sensitive Skin

The FDA noticed that healthcare workers in the USA began reporting increasing skin irritations associated with prolonged use of disposable gloves.

Whether a nurse or doctor used nitrile or latex rubber was of no significance. The FDA discovered that the use of powered surgeon’s glove can case adverse events, including wound inflammation and damage to post-surgical adhesions. This is why the FDA banned powder in medical gloves in 2016.

Beyond banning powder, they found that up to 17% of medical workers have latex sensitivity and experience irritation when wearing latex rubber. This is one reason synthetic nitrile or vinyl rubber is preferred for people with skin sensitivities.

Although there are no studies on the percentage of food-service workers that experience glove-based allergies, we can assume the percentage is similar to the number of nurses affected. With over 11 million restaurant workers in the USA, that means over a million people may be exposed to allergens in their workplace.

Using nitrile or vinyl with aloe vera or other hypoallergenic gloves can prevent irritation in the workplace.

Overall, disposable gloves can cause hand allergies in some people. Those with latex allergies should avoid latex gloves, and anyone with sensitive skin should use gloves made of hypoallergenic materials. Changing gloves often is important, as this can help prevent contact dermatitis and other allergic reactions.

Nitrile rubber is the most popular choice among food service, hospitality, and industrial workers. Mechanics and tattoo artists appreciate nitrile’s tactile precision and benefit from its tensile strength.

This synthetic material is 100% latex-free and offers dependable protection and greater chemical resistance than comparable latex gloves.

Nitrile gloves are more durable than latex and have better abrasion and cut resistance. Although if you are exposed to threats of cuts, abrasions, or punctures, then we recommend cut-resistant gloves.

Nitrile is ideal for healthcare workers who need the most comfortable gloves for extended shifts. Save on nitrile gloves for all industries and hand sizes.

Vinyl gloves are another 100% latex-free, synthetic alternative. This material is most useful for jobs requiring quick glove changes.

Vinyl is not as comfortable as nitrile and can become irritating during extended use which is why we highly recommend vinyl gloves that include aloe vera and are 100% powder-free.

It is recommended to use vinyl when the cost is the deciding factor. Vinyl gloves only cost more than standard plastic gloves, making them the most cost-effective option.

Although vinyl gloves with aloe offer more comfort for those with sensitive skin, they may cost the same as latex or nitrile alternatives.

Disposable Chloroprene Gloves (also called neoprene) combine the fit and feel of latex with the strength and durability of nitrile rubber. Many find chloroprene to be the most comfortable latex alternative, but it is more expensive than nitrile gloves.

Because chloroprene is comfortable by itself, you may find its fit and feel to be more than adequate, even without the addition of aloe vera.

Chloroprene rubber also has a unique chemical resistance chart, making it most useful for those needing specific chemical resistance for your hazard.

Plumbers and chemical plant workers frequently use chloroprene because they need light-duty chemical protection. There are heavy-duty chloroprene chemical-resistant gloves that provide resistance to more severe hazards.

If you’re unsure which glove you need for your hazard, check the manufacturer’s chemical resistance chart against your hazard.

Latex is a 100% natural material derived from tree sap. Unlike nitrile, vinyl, or chloroprene, latex is a sustainable material.

Latex gloves are comfortable and conform well to the contours of your hands. The natural grip latex provides makes them popular among nurses and healthcare workers.

Because latex sensitivities are the most common skin irritation experienced by workers, manufacturers and brands have invested more in hypoallergenic nitrile gloves.

You won’t find latex with added aloe vera but you will have several nitrile options.