HID bulbs on a car illuminate the road more than standard halogen bulbs. Just like with halogen bulbs, touching HID bulbs often damages the bulb, and can cause injury.
HID stands for high intensity discharge. HID bulbs use xenon gas to allow the bulb to illuminate immediately. That's why they're often called xenon headlamps.
The fingers and hands contain perspiration, oils and acids that must never make contact with the glass in HID bulbs.
The perspiration, oils and acids from hands can make the glass on the bulb much more susceptible to shattering. Touching an HID bulb when it is on may cause burns or even electric shock.
Gloves should be worn when handling an HID bulb.
An HID bulb that makes contact with skin should be wiped down with alcohol and a soft cotton cloth.
