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Why is normal hand cream forbidden in EPA areas?

In Electrostatic Protected Areas (EPA), a complete ESD protection concept applies: anti-static clothing, ESD shoes, grounding wristbands – everything works together. What is often overlooked, however, is hand care.

Conventional hand creams and body lotions contain polymers, silicones, and emollients. These substances leave a wafer-thin film on the skin surface after absorption – which is precisely their purpose, as it protects the skin from drying out. For ESD protection, this film is fatal: It is electrically insulating.

Dry skin makes it even worse

Water is a natural electrolyte: well-groomed, moist skin dissipates static charges significantly better than dry skin. Especially in air-conditioned production halls, clean rooms, or with frequent hand washing, the skin dries out quickly – skin resistance increases, and dissipation resistance deteriorates. So anyone who uses moisturizers for good reason needs a solution that can do both: moisturize and electrically conduct.

This is exactly where ESD hand lotion comes in – and precisely why it is not a luxury product, but a functional component of the operational ESD protection concept according to DIN EN 61340-5-1.

ESD Hand Lotion vs. Normal Hand Cream – The Direct Comparison

ESD Hand Lotion – All Technical Data

Masterwear's ESD hand lotion has been specially developed for work areas where electrostatic discharges must be reliably controlled. The conductive formulation actively improves skin contact with the grounding cuff – without compromising on skin care.

TRGS 401 & Skin Protection Plan – What Employers Need to Consider

The Technical Rules for Hazardous Substances TRGS 401 oblige employers to draw up an operational skin protection plan for activities involving skin hazards. In electronics manufacturing, clean rooms, and other EPA areas, this hazard arises from frequent hand washing, wearing gloves, and dry air conditioning.

The skin protection plan distinguishes three phases:

Due to its REACH and RoHS conformity and conductive formulation, the ESD hand lotion is suitable for all three phases in EPA areas. Normal hand creams may be used as care products according to TRGS 401 – but in EPA areas only if they do not impair ESD protection. This is not the case with standard products.

Which ESD standards are relevant?

When and how to apply – everyday EPA use

The ESD hand lotion is compatible with all standard grounding wristbands and cuffs, with anti-static ESD gloves, and with ESD protective clothing and overalls. It leaves no residue on circuit boards, components, or surfaces.

Areas of Application

FAQ – ESD Hand Lotion

Does an ESD hand lotion really make skin more conductive?

Yes – through two mechanisms. First, the lotion contains conductive active ingredients that leave no insulating residue. Second, the moisturizing care increases the water content of the stratum corneum – water is a natural electrolyte that improves skin conductivity. With dry skin, resistance increases sharply; well-cared-for skin conducts measurably better.

How does ESD hand lotion differ from anti-static hand cream?

The terms are often used synonymously, but mean the same thing: a lotion that does not form an insulating layer and does not impair ESD protection. The decisive factor is not the name on the bottle, but the formulation – and the manufacturer's statement on ESD conformity.

Can I also use the lotion under ESD gloves?

Yes. The MasterEsd leaves no sticky or greasy film and does not impair the conductivity of anti-static gloves. It is also suitable for use under disposable gloves in clean rooms.

Is the lotion approved for ATEX areas?

REACH and RoHS conformity and the conductive formulation generally make the lotion suitable for ATEX areas with anti-static requirements. For safety-critical zones (Zone 0, 1), we recommend checking the specific requirements of the operational risk assessment.

Are there bulk quantities or volume discounts?

Yes. For larger order quantities, we offer volume discounts. Free shipping from €90. Inquire directly by email.

Securing EPA Skin Protection – How to Do It Right

• Create and display a skin protection plan according to TRGS 401 for the EPA area
• Remove all normal hand creams and standard lotions from EPA zones
• Designate ESD hand lotion as the only skin care product in the EPA area
• Train employees on the insulating risk of normal creams
• Have lotion applied before each shift and after hand washing
• Check grounding wristbands daily with a calibrated tester
• Ensure compatibility with ESD gloves and protective clothing
• Keep REACH and RoHS proof ready for audit
• For bulk needs: inquire about volume conditions