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How to Choose the Right Detergent for Sensitive Skin

Tips that can help you keep your skin safe and your clothes fresh!

Updated Reading Time: 2 minutes

Washing Clothes even with Sensitive Skin

Usually, the bango factor is the only one worth considering when choosing a laundry detergent. But that shouldn’t be the case when you have sensitive or maselan skin that reacts to even a hint of chemicals.

Sensitive skin is more prone to chemical irritation, so choosing the right detergent is about a lot more than finding one with a pleasant fragrance. The good news is that it's pretty simple to keep your clothes bright without affecting your skin.

Here's how to wash your clothes when you have sensitive skin:

  1. Choose Liquid Detergents

    Using a liquid detergent instead of washing powder has a lower risk of leaving any residue behind. If clothes are not rinsed properly, washing powder residue may remain on the clothes and can irritate sensitive skin. Think of a baby’s skin that is encountering these alien chemicals for the first time. Breeze Liquid Detergent Gentle and Free is perfect for giving your baby's diapers and clothes the gentle TLC they deserve.

  2. Use the Right Amount of Detergent

    As mentioned earlier, residue is a big problem for people with sensitive skin. The recommended dosage on every laundry product can spare these people from discomfort and suffering. For people with severe allergies that result in extreme breathing difficulty, using the right amount of detergent can literally be a lifesaver.

  3. Look for Hypoallergenic Detergent

    If you have a skin condition such as eczema, using a detergent may cause irritation or an allergic reaction. Eczema may be aggravated to the point that skin breaks out in itchy and painful blisters. Para iwas sakit, look for the hypoallergenic label on all laundry and detergent products. These products have fewer ingredients in them which may cause allergic reactions.

  4. Consider Fragrance-free Detergents

    You might enjoy the smell of lavender, but your skin may not feel the same way. Avoid products that contain dyes and fragrances. Choose products that are fragrance-free or labelled "for sensitive skin". They usually have zero to mild fragrance which is suited for your baby's nose and skin

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Your skin is your first line of defense against bacteria and the elements. The clothes you wear, on the other hand, are meant to offer some sort of protection for your skin. If the detergent you use irritates the skin, washing your clothes is similar to taking two steps forward and five steps backwards.

Sensitive skin requires a bit more care. Make the right choice by using a detergent that is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and contains no dyes and chemicals. After all, who said you have to sacrifice your glowing skin for brighter clothes? If you stay alert this is one of the few scenarios where you can have it both ways.

Do you want to learn which household cleaning tasks cause the most stress?  Then read our Heated Household data analysis. 

Frequently asked questions on choosing the right detergent for sensitive skin

How should you wash sensitive skin?

Everyone’s skin is unique, and some people’s skin is sensitive compared to others. Those with sensitive skin, need to know how you should wash sensitive skin without irritating it. First and foremost, understand your skin and how some products affect it: a product that does wonders for someone else may not be right for you. Next, use lukewarm water. Though hot water can feel ‘cleaner’, lukewarm water will do the job without being harsh on your sensitive skin. Finally, dab your skin to nearly dry - do not rub with a towel as that can be harsh. Leaving your skin slightly wet after getting out of the shower can even help with hydration.

What does it mean if my skin is sensitive to clothing?

If you are finding that your skin is sensitive to clothing, it is possible you are experiencing a case of textile dermatitis, which is a reaction to certain types of material used in clothing. It could possibly also be irritant dermatitis, which is caused by tight clothes fabric and your body’s sweat rubbing against your skin.

Are there certain fabrics and clothes that are better for sensitive skin?

If you are experiencing problems with sensitive skin, there are materials that can help, and there are some to avoid. One material for clothes for sensitive skin that you should always try is cotton: this commonly used clothing material is lightweight and breathable to help cool your skin while you wear it. Silk is another great go-to material to help your sensitive skin: it's lightweight and wonderfully soft. Synthetic materials are best avoided as they are often less breathable and rougher against your skin.

Can using a residue-free detergent prevent skin irritation?

Many regular detergents are designed with certain ingredients meant to remain on your clothing. These include brighteners or fragrances that keep your clothing ‘feeling’ fresh, even after they've been out of the wash for a while. Unfortunately, some of these leftover ingredients can irritate your skin. If you suffer from irritated skin after wearing newly-washed clothing, try a residue-free detergent and see if that is better for your skin.

Originally published