Free from dyes, fragrances, and all harsh chemicals which could irritate sensitive skin, a hypoallergenic laundry detergent is the best option for many people. It will clean clothes effectively, but unlike most conventional products, it will not cause an adverse reaction, or contribute to a skin sensitivity. Aside from being gentle, the hypoallergenic choice also tends to be natural. A environmentally-friendly, biodegradable laundry detergent, benefits not only the people who use it, but the earth.
Why a Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent May Be Necessary
Many commercial laundry detergents are designed to remove dirt and stains from clothes, preserve, and even brighten colors, and leave fabrics smelling clean and fresh. The focus is traditionally an effective, affordable product. As a result, many laundry detergent ingredients are not necessarily healthy for people or the environment.
Chemical additives, bleaching agents, perfumes, color dyes, and other substances are added, which can cause a reaction in people with sensitive skin. These chemicals may be known allergens, triggering an allergic response. As a result, people with chronic conditions such as eczema, may have increased symptoms. Rashes, itching, and irritation are signs of a skin sensitivity. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable as their immune systems have not had the chance to fully develop. This is why any baby laundry detergent is usually hypoallergenic.
Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Ingredients
A hypoallergenic laundry detergent will not be made with any known allergens. These products tend to consist of natural, environmentally-friendly substances, that are safe for everyone. It is important however, to carefully read over the laundry detergent ingredients, even with a soap that is labeled as hypoallergenic. Make sure each and every ingredient is both safe and recognizable. Look for products which have the contents listed by name, rather than a descriptive term, such as soil-suspending agents.
Hypoallergenic detergents are usually made with a plant-derived fat as a base, such as coconut or palm oil. Other ingredients act as natural cleaning agents, for example, soap bark. Soap bark comes from a tree, native to Chile. It is rich in plant saponins, which form a soapy lather in water. Essential oils are often used for fragrance, but also for their antibacterial properties. These are natural, biodegradable aromatics, which will not cause allergic reactions in general. Someone who is allergic to the actual plant however, such as chamomile, could potentially have an adverse affect.
Other potential ingredients include borax, or sodium borate. This is a mineral, found naturally, or derived from other minerals. Borax acts as a powerful cleaner, and retards bacterial growth. It is biodegradable, but toxic if ingested. Sodium carbonate, also known as washing soda, is also a natural, non-irritating cleaning agent.
People-Friendly and Environmentally-Friendly Laundry Detergent
While natural ingredients in cleaning products are ideal for people, especially those with sensitive skin, they are also wonderful for the environment. Instead of introducing chemicals, preservatives, and other toxins into the water and soil, a completely biodegradable laundry detergent will only add mild, natural substances. A hypoallergenic laundry detergent may be the best option not only for those who are sensitive, but for everyone.
Sources:
- Balch, Phyllis A. " Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
- "Key Characteristics of Laundry Detergent Ingredients." (Environmental Protection Agency).
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Brenna Coleman - Brenna is a freelance writer focusing on natural health and beauty. She has written hundreds of articles, helping readers find ways to ...
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