Hello.
Well, it’s finally getting to the point that I have to make some changes.
Progressively, over the years, my skin is getting increasingly sensitive to resin exposure, both polyester and epoxy. I consistantly wear a 3M mask, change my filters often, use gloves, and am fortunate enough to work in a shop with excellent extractors and filters (Surf Experience, in Gironde, France). I wear a hat and long sleeves to limit skin contact, and am extremely careful with the acetone.
Despite these precautions, most days when I leave the shop, by mid evening my forehead is turning red and by the following day every little sun-spot (Irish origins and grew up in San Diego… yep, they’re enough of them) has turned into an shallow sore. Then the scalp gets dry and flakes, after a heavy day in the shop, it’ll get sores as well. They heal in a day or two, (or three) and then I go back to the shop, and the cycle continues. I have tried switching resins, have switched to nearly exclusive use of UV catalyst to reduce exposure times, and sub-contract the lion’s share of my glassing to avoid this. In recent months, even being in the shop shaping while there is a heavy glass rotation will set off the same reaction. Same thing when I glass or do repair work in my small shop at home, despite good ventilation and limited exposure.
Anyone with some insight or a similar experience? My dermatologist is shaking her head. My wife is thinking that with skin cancer already being an issue, it’s time to stop glass work altogether. I’m considering a helmet-style mask, but am unsure if we’re dealing with vapors or a contact issue?
Any help or suggestions are greatly appreciated. I’m staying out of the shop for a moment until I can make some progress on this.
Thanks in advance.