Neoprene can be found in medical gloves.
Ironically, the synthetic rubber called neoprene was originally used as an acceptable alternative to latex, which could trigger severe allergic reactions in certain users. Neoprene is often found in braces, protective gloves, stretch fabrics, and wetsuits.
It is quite possible for a person to become allergic to neoprene and experience a form of contact dermatitis. Divers and surfers have been known to get rashes caused by the neoprene used in some wetsuits, and users of elastic bandages and braces may discover signs of contact dermatitis where the neoprene stays in contact with the skin.
Neoprene is often found in braces.
The reason you may be allergic to neoprene could be a sensitivity to several different compounds that are used to cure and harden natural rubber. Traces of these chemicals may remain in the finished neoprene product and cannot be easily removed by normal washing.
When someone is really allergic to this rubber, any prolonged contact could cause a reaction. You may actually be sensitive or allergic to a medical cream or other substance placed on the wetsuit, not the wetsuit itself. If you have a skin reaction after prolonged contact with a neoprene glove, wetsuit, or brace, examine the item for other contaminants or substances that may trigger a similar reaction.
Neoprene can be found in wetsuits.
Testing to see if you really are allergic to neoprene usually requires a visit to a local allergy clinic for a specific patch test. This is different from a scratch test, so you’ll want to let your doctor know about your contact with the wetsuit. There are at least 6 different compounds used to cure and harden natural rubber, so the allergist may need to examine the current object that may have triggered the reaction. The neoprene allergy patch test is not always on the standard menu, so your allergist may need to organize a more comprehensive battery of tests.
Neoprene can be found in stretch fabrics.
If you are allergic to neoprene, the best solution may be to avoid it as much as possible. There are modern wetsuits that have eliminated neoprene altogether or minimize its contact with the wearer through layers. Application of a chemical barrier such as petroleum jelly can also minimize direct contact with braces or neoprene bandages. Avoid the use of athletic shoe linings that may contain neoprene and check labels on active sports clothing and swimwear for the presence of neoprene.
A medical professional wrapping a person’s knee with a neoprene bandage.
If you experience an allergic reaction to neoprene, you may want to take antihistamine medication such as Benadryl® and allow the rash to heal naturally. Some medical professionals advise against the use of over-the-counter anti-itch creams until the root cause of the dermatitis can be determined. The wrong medication can actually worsen the effects of a neoprene allergy.
