One of a number of synthetic rubber glove varieties available, vinyl gloves are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is then mixed with a plasticiser, to make them more flexible and wearable. Unlike nitrile gloves, vinyl gloves to do not contain chemical accelerators.
As this type of protective glove is made from synthetic materials rather than natural rubber latex, they are latex-free and a good alternative to latex gloves for those who suffer from Type I allergy. Being free from chemical accelerators also makes vinyl gloves safe for use by those with a Type IV allergy. Type I and Type IV allergies can both cause a range of allergic reactions including skin irritation, inflammation, runny nose, and cold-like symptoms, rashes, cracking and blisters, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock (particularly in the case of latex allergies).
For this reason, vinyl gloves are still widely used in many workplaces where allergies may be a concern. Vinyl gloves are available in powdered and non-powdered varieties. The non-powdered, often referred to as powder free, variants are often preferred due to the reduced risk of skin irritation they offer to wearers.