The issue with working over fryers is actually a combination of both irritation and cleanliness, but cleanliness tends to be the more significant factor. Let's break it down:
Cleanliness:
1. Oil and grease particles: These can settle on the skin and clog pores.
2. Difficulty in maintaining cleanliness: Long shifts may prevent regular face washing.
3. Bacterial growth: The warm, moist environment can promote bacterial proliferation on the skin.
Irritation:
1. Heat exposure: Can irritate the skin and potentially increase oil production.
2. Steam: May cause mild irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
3. Touching the face: Frequent wiping of sweat can cause physical irritation.
While irritation can contribute to skin issues, the cleanliness aspect is generally more impactful in causing acne in this environment. The accumulation of oils, grease, and bacteria on the skin is more likely to clog pores and lead to breakouts than the irritation alone.
That said, the irritation can make the skin more vulnerable to the effects of poor cleanliness. For instance, irritated skin might be more susceptible to bacterial invasion or may overproduce oil in response to the irritation, exacerbating the cleanliness issues.
