Like many people, I’ve always believed we tend to stick with the laundry detergent we grew up with – it’s the one our mothers chose, and let’s be honest, that’s not a decision easily challenged.
Especially not with a Malay mum! But I like exploring new products, thinking that with time, there must be better, more effective options out there.
Well, I recently learned the hard way that our skin gets used to certain detergents, and switching them can come with some unpleasant surprises.
Let’s just say my skin did not appreciate the change, and now I’m dealing with the consequences – itchy, irritated, and full of regret.
WHY DOES YOUR SKIN HATE YOUR NEW DETERGENT?
You’d think laundry detergent is just soap that makes your clothes smell nice, but no – there’s a lot more going on in that bottle than meets the eye.
Many detergents contain a mix of surfactants, fragrances, dyes, and preservatives, all of which can potentially irritate the skin.
When you stick to the same detergent for years, your skin becomes accustomed to its specific formula.
But when you suddenly introduce a new set of chemicals, your body might see them as invaders.
This can lead to redness, itching, rashes, and in extreme cases, full-blown allergic reactions. Essentially, your skin is throwing a tantrum because it doesn’t recognise the new stuff.
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
If your skin has started acting up after a detergent switch, you might want to check the label for these usual suspects:
Fragrances – They make your clothes smell like a field of lavender or a tropical paradise, but artificial fragrances are one of the biggest triggers for skin irritation. Some people’s skin just doesn’t vibe with them.
Dyes – Those bright, colourful liquids might look pretty, but dyes serve no real cleaning purpose and can be a hidden cause of sensitivity.
Preservatives and Antibacterials – Some detergents include preservatives like methylisothiazolinone (try saying that three times fast) to prevent bacteria growth. Unfortunately, they can also trigger skin reactions.
Surfactants – These are the cleaning agents that break down dirt and oil. While they’re essential, harsher surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can be too aggressive on sensitive skin.
Fabric Softeners – Not technically a detergent, but if you’re using one, it could be another reason your skin is unhappy.
Fabric softeners often contain even more fragrances and chemicals that linger on clothes.
HOW TO FIX IT
Remedies and Prevention
If your skin is currently staging a rebellion, here are a few ways to calm things down:
Switch to a Hypoallergenic Detergent
Look for detergents labelled as fragrance-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic.
Brands that cater to babies or people with eczema often have gentler formulas.
Double-Rinse Your Clothes
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the detergent itself but the residue left on your clothes. Running an extra rinse cycle helps remove any leftover irritants.
Wear Natural Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics tend to trap detergent residues and can make irritation worse.
Sticking to cotton and other natural materials can give your skin some relief.
Moisturise Like Your Life Depends on It
If your skin is already reacting, keep it hydrated with a fragrance-free, gentle moisturiser. Aloe vera or oatmeal-based creams can help soothe irritation.
Try a Vinegar Rinse
Adding half a cup of white vinegar to your wash can help remove excess detergent residue. Don’t worry, your clothes won’t smell like a salad dressing – it rinses out clean!
Give Your Skin a Break
If you’ve already broken out in a rash, avoid scratching (easier said than done, I know) and opt for a cool compress or an anti-itch cream. If things get severe, a visit to the doctor might be in order.
Is It Worth Experimenting?
At the end of the day, switching detergents isn’t necessarily a bad thing -sometimes, we do find better, more eco-friendly or budget-friendly options.
But if you’re prone to sensitive skin, a little research before making the leap can save you from an itchy, miserable experience.
As for me, I’ll be sticking to my old, tried-and-true detergent for now – because no fancy new bottle is worth this level of discomfort. – Features Desk
