I have recently developed a latex allergy, which has been destabilizing in many ways! Latex, aka natural rubber, is in so many household objects, and it’s often not disclosed or labeled. The standard advice is to “ask the manufacturer,” but I have found that many manufacturers, or at least the representatives I am able to reach, seem to be shockingly ignorant of what materials are in their products.
If I could go back and give myself advice, I’d say limit exposure to natural rubber where avoidable, since allergies develop from overexposure. Most people don’t develop a latex allergy, but you don’t know it’ll be you until it’s too late. For me personally, it would have been a lot easier for me not to use a natural rubber yoga mat for the last few years, than it is to avoid all exposure to all latex items now!
Luckily for me, watercolor paint itself is latex-free, as are most of my supplies. Really, I only had to modify my art practice a little bit. Still, there are a few items I had to get rid of. I can’t guarantee what someone else will or won’t react to, but if you are allergic to latex, maybe I can help you avoid a few culprits.
Art supplies that may be made from latex
Masking Fluid
Avoid: Most masking fluids are made from natural rubber. The ammonia smell is a sign that natural rubber is used, because ammonia is used to stabilize the natural rubber and inhibit mold growth.
Okay: Schmincke Ammonia-Free Masking Fluid, in addition to being less obnoxious on the odor front, is also fully synthetic! That’s why they’re able to avoid using stinky ammonia.
Rubber Cement Pickup (aka Liquid Frisket Remover)
Okay, here’s the rub when it comes to using masking fluid: the best option for removing it from the page is a rubber cement pickup, which is made of 100% natural crepe rubber. I praised this in my maskerade post, but it’s definitely something I can’t use anymore. You can still use a vinyl eraser, but it doesn’t work as well.
Masking Tape
Avoid: ordinary masking tape, like the kind you get from the hardware store. I praised this is in my tape post as a good bargain option, but it’s not something I want to use anymore. Sometimes this will be labeled with a latex warning on the packaging or inside the roll, but it’s not required to.
Okay: Holbein Soft Tape, paper washi tape, clear tape (such as Scotch Tape)
Erasers
Avoid: old-school pink erasers, such as Pink Pet or Pink Pearl
Okay: kneaded erasers, vinyl erasers (such as Sanford or Magic Rub), Blackwing erasers
Rubber Pencil Grips
Avoid: rubber pencil grips of unknown composition
Okay: My beloved Pilot Eno pencils seem to be fully plastic. Of course, it’s also safe to use ordinary hard pencils and pens made from hard plastic, metal, or wood. If you want a grip as a bit of cushion or a mobility aid, look for latex-free grips, such as those made from silicone.
Misc crafting & office supplies
While not necessarily specifically used for watercolor, it’s worth noting some common items found in the craft room or office can be latex allergy triggers.
- Latex disposable gloves (replace with nitrile or vinyl gloves)
- Rubber bands (replace with hair elastics, silicone bands, or string)
- Balloons
- Mouse pads
- Glitter
- Various tapes, glues, adhesives
Conclusion
Adjusting to a new allergy takes a toll on a person, and due to distraction/anxiety/painful hands from contact allergy rashes, I have not done much art in the last month or so. A big shout out to the rest of the Idyll Sketching writers, especially Sandra, for holding down the fort with Brand Overviews!
I’ve only recently started to ease back in with some small-scale, relaxing, sunset-and-silhouette sketches. How does this paint thing work again?
For me, the most important thing to remember is that maintaining an art practice is not an obligation, it’s okay to take a break, and it’s also possible to get started again!
Comments
2 responses to “Art with a Latex Allergy”
I developed a latex allergy when I began working as an RN late 90s. In those days, nitrile gloves were not stocked on hospital units. I had to go to the supervisor office at the beginning of each shift, get my “special” gloves, and carry them room to room! I have discovered I can handle rubber bands or masking tape as it is not touched for long periods. Thank goodness I am ok eating avocado and banana! It still was quite the adjustment working in healthcare.
Good to know I have company! I’m impressed with how much health care has improved. So far, the doctor’s offices I’ve gone to have used non latex alternatives by default.