Choosing A Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent? Here's What To Look For On The Label

Ah, there's nothing like the heavenly scent of a laundry cocktail when washing clothes. However, if you have sensitive skin, your body's reaction to it may not be pleasant thanks to synthetic fragrances, preservatives, or an alkaline pH. That is why you see more options for buying sensitive skin laundry detergent. Unfortunately, harmful ingredients may still be used in something labeled "sensitive", making it necessary to bust out the magnifying glass for a deeper dive into these labels.

Just because it says "unscented" doesn't mean it's perfume-free. You want something that states it's "100% free of any perfumes, fragrances, and dyes". "Gentle" is nice — but not enough to go on, as irritants may still be present. Instead, check for a detergent that says "gentle on skin" and more specifically, "gentle for sensitive skin." "Hypoallergenic"  — a label used since 1953 on items from skincare to linens and intended for products without known allergens or less likely to cause an allergic reaction — may not be completely free of irritants. The FDA doesn't regulate what products, including your sensitive skin laundry detergent, fit this term. Therefore, check for labels that are both "hypoallergenic" and "gentle on skin" or "gentle for sensitive skin."

Don't stop there, either. Check the label or company information for certifications that state the product is safe enough to clean well and avoid common laundry allergens.

If you see a dermatologist, they may have specific recommendations for sensitive skin detergent. However, you can always see which ones have been endorsed by leading medical professionals and certification associations. Arbour and Renegade laundry detergents are Certified Asthma and Allergy Friendly. After passing strict guidelines for every required test at independent labs, qualified products are labeled with a specific certification code. Dirty Labs Bio Laundry, Blueland Laundry Detergent Tablets, and Earth Breeze Eco Sheets meet standards set by the National Eczema Association.

Are you a fan of the long-standing laundry staple Tide? ​​Well, Tide Free and Gentle detergent and pods have been certified by the National Psoriasis Foundation. After loads of market testing, All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent, has become another top pick.

As you find the right keywords and certification endorsements on these labels, don't forget another important factor — instructions! Using too much laundry detergent is a common mistake, and sensitive skin detergent is no exception. Proper measurement is part of managing your skin sensitivity, and experts suggest using less than the label states if possible. When in doubt about how much you can safely use, clean a small patch first and see if you develop a reaction.