Hand eczema, also known as hand dermatitis, is a common condition in many work environments. In fact, it occurs in about 10 percent of the adult population, causing everything from mild dryness and redness to scaling and painful crusting.

Hand eczema, which isn't contagious, is most often seen in individuals who perform a great deal of "wet" work either in the workplace or at home. Eczema can be difficult to treat effectively, and can ultimately affect an individual's ability to perform at work.

Eczema sufferers can be irritated by a number of factors. These include overexposure to water, too much dry air, soaps, detergents, solvents, cleaning agents, chemicals, rubber gloves, and even ingredients in skin and personal care products. And according to the world-renown Mayo Clinic, allergies, stress, genetic factors and environmental irritants also can play a part in contributing to eczema.

Using Vinyl Gloves to Protect Your Hands
Fortunately, vinyl gloves can provide an excellent way for individuals with eczema to protect their hands against irritants, so they can heal and stay healthy. Vinyl gloves - made from polyvinyl chloride- are an economical and practical protective barrier for all types of settings. Vinyl is resistant to water, oils, foods, or common chemicals, which makes vinyl gloves ideal material for many uses.

As another major benefit, vinyl gloves don't contain latex proteins, which make them a healthier option for people with allergies. Latex sensitivity can cause a range of complications, including skin itching, rashes, asthma and even death in serious instances.

However, because vinyl gloves can tear easily, they should be reserved for short-term, low-stress activities. In healthcare facilities, the use of vinyl gloves should also be restricted to low-risk tasks that don't involve contact with blood or body fluids.

Following are general vinyl-glove-related tips that experts recommend for workers suffering from eczema:

• Keep multiple pairs of vinyl gloves available and use them frequently, especially when engaging in "wet work".
• Always replace your vinyl gloves after task use -- well before they tear or develop holes.
• Try wearing cotton liners inside your gloves to avoid skin being irritated by sweat and friction from the glove.
• When you wash your hands, use lukewarm water and very little soap. Remove rings whenever washing or working with your hands because they trap soap and moisture next to skin, which can cause irritation.

Vinyl gloves can provide excellent protection for workers who suffer from eczema and other hand irritations. DonTheGlove.com sells vinyl gloves in multiple sizes and in powder-free and powdered options.