Since gloves are designed to help to protect the skin against corrosive substances, the occlusive conditions may lead to skin maceration and may also disturb the natural barrier function of the skin. Glove usage may lead to a loss of dexterity as well. Latex proteins or other raw materials from the glove rubber may cause allergies.
Also frequent hand washing and intense contact with water is a significant risk factor to develop a skin disease. The term wet work is used when the skin (mainly the hands) is exposed to moisture and wet conditions often and for a long time each working day (> 2 hours). Published research data indicates that wet work is the causative factor for many occupational skin diseases.