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How Does Laundry Detergent Impact Eczema?

Eczema

Eczema is quite a disturbing skin condition that is characterized by the presence of swollen, itchy and red patches when faced with some triggers. It is really important to practice proper skin care whenever faced with the condition but you also have to monitor triggers. Identifying what causes skin reactions helps in dealing with the outbreaks. The trigger can be practically anything from laundry detergents to chemicals or airborne pollutants. Sometimes triggers cannot be controlled, by changing products that you use around the home you could drastically reduce flare-ups.

Laundry Detergent And Eczema

Any dermatology clinic London professional will tell you that laundry detergent reactions are quite rare when faced with normal exposure levels but chemicals will build up inside the fabric as time passes. That would basically create a repeat exposure cycle that can easily lead towards irritation. It is especially the case when talking about children and babies because skin is highly sensitive.

Most of the commercial detergents include various enzymes and chemicals that are used to remove stains and break up dirt in the clothes. The big problem stands in the scented detergents. Looking for alternatives is highly important. Natural ingredients are always a very good idea.

How To Choose A Detergent

As you try to select the suitable laundry detergent, you have to look for the elements that would reduce a chemical exposure. Look for the following:

  • Enzyme free
  • Neutral PH
  • Safe for children
  • Dye free
  • Vegetable passed or plant sourced ingredients
  • Fragrance free
  • Hypoallergenic

The best detergents you would use are biodegradable, will not be tested on an animal and will be great for the skin and for the environment.

Eczema

Doing Laundry Properly

Although the choice of the laundry detergent is highly important, you also have to follow some proper washing instructions in order to be sure that clothes will be clean and that no residue will remain, thus causing flare ups.

Look at the instructions present on the natural detergent and then follow instructions in order to see exactly how much you have to use based on load size. Also, look at the washing machine and never overload it. A correct cleaning cycle needs to be chosen based on how many clothes you will wash. That helps you to clean your clothes without having excess soap. Extra rinse cycles are recommended at all times. Even the new clothes should be put through such a cleaning cycle.

Irritation

Changing your laundry detergents is not enough if you have clothes that are made out of fibers that would irritate the skin. It is always a really good idea to choose 100% cotton and try to avoid synthetic materials as much as you can. The same thing can be said for itchy fibers like hemp or wool. Seams have to be checked for a rough edge before you make a purchase.

When you choose the right clothes and you respect the indications we made about the laundry detergents, you decrease the possibility of ending up with an eczema flare up. Avoid chemicals at all costs as they are not present just in detergents.

Judith Cheryl
Judith Cheryl
I'm Judith Cheryl and I help people reach their fitness goals by sharing what I've learned. I help others lose weight, build muscle, and live better!