I got onto the topic a little late to respond on the same thread, so felt it prudent to start this one. Whether or not to use these is totally up to you. I'm not calling anyone stupid or moronic for using them, but want everyone to know just how insidiously dangerous these solvents are. the key word is solvent. They all contain benzene, a now-proven carcinogen. Worse, these solvents break down the very protective oil barrier to human skin, thus leaving more room for exposure to entry by pathogenic bacteria. Yes, many bacteria can penetrate the skin if only abrased or stripped of its protective properties.
The other concern about solvents, is that they very quickly are assimilated into the liver. This is where they cause the majority of damage by breakdown of cellular tissues and overload the liver's cleansing capacity. The result, especially in a field like taxidermy, where we handle raw skins and or carcasses, the doorway to liver, bloodborne and intestinal parasites is greatly enhanced!
Suggested reading on the subject is "The Cure For All Cancers" by Dr. Hulda Regier Clark and is available at many independent health stores.
Again, it is truly a major fire hazard inside any shop or studio.
Here's to your health!
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Thanks for the post. I will be sure to wear my rubber gloves and use the Coleman fuel outside----both of which I always do. Bubba.
When i use coleman fuel it is always outside,(even when it's snowing) and always with rubber gloves.FYI...insect repellent is also solvent based and reacts the same when applied to the skin. The "deet" is absorbed into the blood stream in the same way described by L.R.,I'm sure that can't be good for you either. Thanks for the info L.R.