Looking after your hands
Examples of emollients
- Any aqueous creams (can be used as a soap substitute)
- E45 creams
- Ointments such as soft white paraffin
Hand creams and emollients
Hand creams can be used daily as they help to maintain a stable and adequately hydrated barrier layer to help the skin remain in good condition and help it to retain its protective role. Water based creams are best used when using gloves frequently during your working day.
Emollients are the mainstay of all treatment in chronic inflammatory skin conditions. They are used to moisturise, lubricate and soothe dry irritated skin by providing a lipid film on the epidermis, so diminishing water loss and preventing the skin from drying. They also work by replacing natural oils which have been removed by soap, water or irritants.
Your hands are important. As well as protecting your hands from the harmful substances and chemicals by using gloves, you skin needs some additional care and attention to keep it looking healthy.
Handcare
Do
- Wash and dry your hands before putting on gloves, if your hands are dirty or you have been already handled chemicals with bare hands
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly after using gloves
- Wash your hands and change the gloves after spillages or splashes with substances onto gloves have occurred
- Apply a suitable hand cream after washing your hands
- Report any skin reactions or rashes to the Occupational Health department
Do not
- Do not use an oil based emollient prior to wearing gloves as this can increase absorption of the proteins found in the glove and can cause glove deterioration. If you need an emollient to stop your hands drying out, these are best used at the end of a work session
- Do not scrub the skin or use abrasive cleansers
- Do not use workplace solvents e.g. paraffin, acetone, to clean your hands
- Do not use latex gloves unless there is a clear advantage over other glove materials (Glove Selection Guidance)
- If you suffer with eczema or dermatitis, try wearing cotton liners inside your gloves to avoid your skin being irritated by sweat and friction from the glove
- Cotton liners are also helpful for persons with normal skin if you find excessive sweating inside gloves a nuisance to you
