What's in laundry detergent that can cause allergies and dermatitis?

First of all, preservatives and stabilizers called isothiazolinones, known allergens. Also be careful with fragrances and colorants.

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substances present in detergents

Laundry detergents are heavily advertised with highly appealing messages: they clean everything (even the most stubborn dirt) and leave no traces of stains; there's a suitable product for every garment; fabrics are protected and look as good as new.

What is much less talked about, however, are the ingredients contained in laundry detergents, generally indicated on the labels with strange acronyms that no one, unless they are an expert, can decipher. 

And instead it is important to know what they can be dangerous ingredients, to be kept under close observation and, if possible, avoided.

In the front row are the isothiazolinones, with different names and types, which have two fundamental functions: they are preservatives and stabilizers. But several scientific researches (some are found in the Istisan Report 21/23 (from the Istituto Superiore di Sanità) indicate the main risks of isothiazolinones: they can cause allergies, contact dermatitis, hives, asthma and eye damage.

Note that these are ingredients that we find, as well as in laundry products, also in some shower gels and shampoo.

Other chemicals to watch out for in laundry detergents include: 

  • Surfactants (surfactants)

    • Some surfactants, especially aggressive anionic or cationic ones, can irritate sensitive skin.

  • Perfumes (fragrances)

    • They are often the main cause of allergic reactions.
    • They can cause allergic dermatitis even at very low doses.
    • Those who already have atopic skin are more likely to trigger allergies.

  • Colorants and additives

    • Synthetic dyes added to make detergent more “visually appealing” can cause irritation.

  • enzymes

    • Often used to remove protein stains (such as blood or grease).
    • They can cause allergies especially if residues remain on clothes.

  • Brighteners and oxidizing agents

    • Chlorine, sodium perborate, or percarbonate may irritate the skin.

How can you protect yourself from these ingredients? First of all, it's always a good idea to choose detergents hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, colorant-free, and with reduced enzymes. Even an extra rinse can reduce the risk of dermatitis, and it is certainly a waste, as well as a risk, to overdo the detergent quantity for each wash.

Finally: why not try, maybe even just occasionally, some DIY natural detergent?

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