Why are halloween masks and other things made of latex?

Im really kind of getting mad now because the stuff i want to get is latex (i.e. masks and other things). I am trying to find a slipknot mask but every one that i have seen says made of latex. Its now starting to get annoying so i have 3 questions.





1) Why do they use latex in masks and other things (like gloves)?





2) Does anyone know where i can find Slipknot masks or any halloween masks that are non latex? Also would it be possible to go to a halloween shop and get one custom made?





3) What causes the allergic reaction to latex?





And if your wondering, Yes i am allergic to latex.





Feel free to answer as many of the questions you know or answer all of em.Anymore info you need just ask.Why are halloween masks and other things made of latex?
Well I can answer a couple of them.


1) They use latex b/c rubber trees are a very common export and are very cheap.





3) What causes it? Latex comes from the rubber tree. Just like allergies to any other tree products, from bananas to pollen, it's not really clear what causes it. Some people are just allergic to different things. The protein in rubber can cause an allergic reaction in some people. But of course that milky fluid from the tree is mixed during processing into ';latex';. You could be allergic to the latex or your could be allergic to the mixture. People are a lot less allergic to certain products than others. I bet you aren't allergic to tires. And there are different allergies to it--most people have a form of dermatitis.





However as the number of people with latex allergies has shot up so there are numerous products on the market that are latex free. Most places have just as many non-latex gloves as latex.





As for finding a mask though--that's a little more difficult. To keep the price low, most places use the cheapest material possible. After all you are only going to wear this once.





I'm not sure which exact mask you are going for but why not just paint your face? Why use a mask in the first place? White paint and some black should be able to make it.