What type of commonly used protective gloves might a client be allergic or sensitive to?

Latex gloves are commonly used in various healthcare and therapeutic settings, including massage therapy. However, a notable consideration with latex gloves is that they can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Latex allergy can range from mild skin irritation to more severe reactions, including respiratory issues and anaphylaxis in rare cases. This allergy is particularly important to consider in massage therapy, as therapists often come into direct contact with clients and their skin.

While other types of gloves like nitrile, vinyl, and rubber can also cause irritation or sensitivity in some individuals, latex is more widely recognized for its allergenic potential. Many facilities now opt for latex-free alternatives to ensure client safety and comfort, thus reducing the risk of allergic reactions. Understanding this aspect of materials used in therapy can help practitioners make informed choices to accommodate all clients effectively.