Latex is a term which describes any polymer in a water-based liquid or viscous state, but it is commonly used to refer to products made from natural rubber (also referred to as natural rubber latex), which is typically refined from the milky sap (latex) of the Amazonian rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis. The latex contains natural polymers of isoprene, which are used to produce various products, including both disposable and reusable gloves.
While latex gloves feature excellent flexibility, durability, and good chemical resistance, residual proteins may be present in products manufactured from latex which can cause allergic reactions in some users. In these cases, an alternative glove material such as nitrile or vinyl should be used instead.