In a message dated 98-01-30 11:37:21 EST, aschoenb@eecs.wsu.edu writes: << O.K, here is a theory of mine, let me know if this makes any sense. Lets say I cut a bunch of peppers and rub my hands all over them, then I go to wash my hands. If I wash my hands in warm or hot water isn't there a good chance that my poors will open and trap some 'hot stuff' in there ? on the other hand if I wash my hands in cold water first, I can get rid of most of the 'hot stuff' before, then wash my hands in hot water later. >> If you want, but I recommend wearing rubber gloves of some sort. Gloves are the first line defense against "HUNAN HAND". Yours Truly in Supreme Heat ChefChile@aol.com aka "John" TCS Mystic Fire Priest Monk of the SOB Executive Chef Ring O' Fire C=:-) Humble Servant to the Great Hab