Protective effect of barrier creams and spray coatings against epoxy resins

This study evaluates the protective capacity of 4 barrier creams and 2 methacrylate spray coatings against skin contact with epoxy resins. The effect of these materials on the strength and on the surface area of patch test reactions caused by epoxy resin was assessed in 11 volunteers with a known allergy to epoxy resins. Standard amounts of barrier cream and spray coating were applied on the skin. Then patch tests were carried out with epoxy resin on the pretreated sites. After 24 h patches were removed, 48 h thereafter the strength and surface area of the reactions were scored. Results were compared with the score of a control test. The use of 2 barrier creams resulted in a significant reduction of the surface area of the patch test reactions. Spray coatings significantly reduced both the strength and the surface area of the reactions. Our results suggest that methacrylate spray coatings and barrier creams may provide protection against epoxy resins during a test period of 24 h. However, the development of new formulations, adapted more specifically to this purpose, is necessary.