Archive: This article was first published in 2023. It reflects the state of knowledge, product names and wording of that time. Current, product-specific information can be found on the respective product pages.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, they have adorned our streets in a questionable way: disposable gloves which, together with face coverings, are thrown into public trash cans in the better case, or simply onto the ground in the worse one. They serve as protection against smear infection, for example when pushing a shopping cart, when touching grab rails and seats on buses and trains, or when in contact with door handles and light switches in public buildings and offices.
Certainly a sensible measure, considering that COVID-19 pathogens, but also numerous other viruses and bacteria, can survive for many days under favorable conditions on surfaces such as plastic, metal or textiles. No one can safely assume comprehensive disinfection, let alone self-disinfection, of the surfaces we come into contact with every day.
The limits of disposable gloves
Here, however, the first problem with gloves already becomes apparent: they do protect our hands from SARS-CoV-2 viruses and other germs, but not the surfaces we touch with these gloves. A tickling hair is all it takes, and in an inattentive moment you brush your hand across your face. We handle wallets, car keys, handbags and many other objects that we continue to use after the train ride, after shopping or after a visit to the doctor.
But even if we carefully disinfect every object we have touched, disposable gloves are no cure-all: What if no gloves are available? What if the material is not tolerated? Or if you are simply looking for an alternative for everyday situations?
Can’t the entire system be completely rethought?
What skin care can – and cannot – do
Many people who work with their hands every day wish for skin care that is invisible, does not impair the sense of touch and fits into everyday routines.
It is important to be clear, however: skin care cannot protect against viruses and bacteria.
Cosmetic skin care can nonetheless support skin that is stressed by frequent washing and disinfection.
GLOVE by nanopool® is a cosmetic skin protection and care formulation that is designed to form an ultra-thin film on the skin that cannot be perceived with the bare senses.
Cosmetic skin protection – no replacement for gloves or hand hygiene
GLOVE by nanopool® is a cosmetic product. It does not replace protective gloves, hand disinfection or other prescribed hygiene measures and does not protect against pathogens. Statements on its effect and durability apply only within the scope of the investigations conducted on the current product.