Does glove powder cause latex allergy?

Glove powder, used in the manufacturing process as a mold releasing agent and a donning lubricant, is also believed to be one possible cause of sensitization. However, it is important to understand that glove powder or cornstarch powder itself is not known to be an allergen.

It is during the manufacturing process whereby the glove powder can absorb some soluble protein, and via aerosolization, these powder particles become airborne. Inhalation or direct contact with these powder particles is alleged to bring about allergic reactions.

Therefore, it is important to use only gloves with low protein and low powder content, such as Adenna LPX Latex Powdered Exam Gloves; or low protein and powder free gloves such as Adenna Platinum and Gold Latex Powder-Free Exam Gloves.

It is equally important to note that NOT all powder free gloves will have a low protein level. There are powder free gloves that contain a high level of latex protein. Therefore, the association of glove powder and soluble protein must be clarified, and choose only low protein powder free gloves should be used.