How does an allergy to washing powder manifest?


How does an allergic reaction manifest?

Different external irritants cause different allergic manifestations. Often, it is by the type of manifestation of intolerance that its cause can be identified. In some cases, for example, with cross allergic reactions, this process becomes more difficult.

External signs

An allergy to powder in a child, a photo of which helps determine the type of rash, is characterized by the following external signs:

Hives. The most common reaction of the body to an allergen that enters it. Its manifestations are similar to a nettle burn. It appears as blisters on different parts of the body, often itchy. Manifestations on the skin of the legs, arms, and face can be of different colors and sizes.

Allergy to powder in a child: photo of a skin rash called “urticaria”

Quincke's edema. A dangerous reaction of the body to an allergen. It can be fatal if first aid is not provided correctly. Allergies can occur as a result of inhaling poorly rinsed washing powder residues from clothes and linen.

Swelling of the mucous membranes of the lips, cheeks, eyelids, larynx and genitals occurs. Swelling is accompanied by pain and burning, and sometimes itching. If swelling occurs in the larynx, breathing becomes difficult, so you need to call an ambulance.

Atopic dermatitis. Characterized by areas of dry skin that are itchy and red. This manifestation can lead to the development of bronchial asthma or neurodermatitis in adulthood. That is why atopic dermatitis is subject to careful monitoring and exclusion of all possible allergens.

Anaphylactic shock. The most dangerous type of allergic reaction. Its onset can occur either a few seconds after the allergen enters the body or several hours later. Manifested by shortness of breath, convulsions, loss of consciousness, vomiting, involuntary urination and defecation.

Respiratory manifestations. This type of allergic reaction often occurs due to inhalation of foreign substances. Manifested by itching in the respiratory tract, sneezing, rhinitis, cough, wheezing in the lungs.

Photos and symptoms of external manifestations of intolerance to a particular substance in washing powder can clarify the nature of the intensity of the impact of the allergic factor. However, external manifestations are only a consequence of internal processes in the body, correction and influence on which is required in the process of treating such reactions.

Symptoms of disorders within the body

Since external manifestations of allergies are only a clear symptom, the most important role in studying the influence of intolerances of various kinds on the human body is played by internal symptoms and manifestations.

These include:

  • Enteropathy. Manifestation of allergies in the human gastrointestinal tract. Most often it is expressed by nausea and vomiting, stool disorders from constipation to diarrhea, intestinal colic of newborns and toddlers.
  • Labored breathing. It is a consequence of exposure to an allergen on the respiratory tract. May manifest as shortness of breath and wheezing in the lungs.
  • Frequent pulse. An increase in the number of heart beats per minute can also be a consequence of contact with an allergen. Accompanied by a general deterioration in the child's condition.
  • Dizziness. Manifests itself against the background of a symptom of general weakness.
  • Collapse. Expressed as acute vascular insufficiency.

Most often, allergy symptoms, both external and internal, pass quickly enough and without dangerous consequences for the child’s body. However, if intolerance reactions persist, it is necessary to consult a doctor and carefully monitor substances that can affect the child’s body.

Composition, chemistry and allergens

Washing powder contains many different components, many of which are potential allergens.

The composition varies depending on the manufacturer and type of powder. Hand wash products are generally safer for your skin.

The main components from which washing powders are made:

They serve to soften water, but are very toxic. We come into contact with them every day, because phosphate compounds are found in medications, fertilizers, various household chemicals, and even in some food additives.

These compounds may contain poisons (arsenic) and metals (lead), the amount of which is limited by certain recommended standards. It is unlikely that regulatory authorities meticulously check each of the powders sold to ensure that these components exceed the norm.

However, phosphates penetrate into our body not only from the powder, and harmful substances can accumulate, therefore, the less chemicals there are, at least in the powder, the better.

Phosphate compounds are very difficult to wash off and may well cause allergic reactions in both children and adults.

The most dangerous component, especially for allergy sufferers. They are the basis of inexpensive powders and are necessary to reduce the surface tension of materials.

These substances are also found in many cleaning products - for washing dishes, floors, and so on.

Most surfactants are sulfonates and sulfates, which are harmful in direct contact with the skin. During the washing process, they interact with water and mostly dissolve, but not completely.

There are surfactants derived from corn, coconut and sugar cane - they are safe for the skin and are used in expensive natural powders.

Chemical compounds accumulate well in the fabrics of clothing and bedding, remaining there for several days.

Both phosphates and surfactants cause damage to the body by changing the composition of the blood. These changes can manifest themselves in the long term in the form of cancer or a simple weakening of the immune system, which contributes to the development of allergies.

As a rule, these are chlorine and similar compounds, or peroxides. They decompose organic contaminants and discolor them.

These substances are toxic and have the ability to disinfect fabric.

Special enzymes that serve to decompose proteins, keratin, starch and fats. Remove food debris and other organic compounds and particles.

They consist of lipase, protease, cellulase, amylase, etc. They have a protein structure and may well cause allergic reactions.

Pigments serve to preserve and restore the color of things. Flavorings add a pleasant aroma. Both of them can be strong allergens.

In addition to the substances listed above, washing powder also contains many different chemicals for softening water, suppressing foam, strengthening the main components, making clothes soft, etc.

After washing, microscopic chemical particles linger in the things we wear every day and penetrate our bodies.

They are the most dangerous for infants and newborns, because their immunity and delicate skin are not yet able to prevent the effects of chemicals.

For reference: Ushasty Nyan powder, which in theory should be safe for children, contains phosphates and anionic surfactants in large quantities. Studies have shown that its toxicity level is much higher than acceptable for children.

Allergies to washing powder manifest themselves in different ways, depending on the place of contact and the method of penetration of the allergen into the body.

But all the signs are similar in both children and adults.

On the skin it looks like allergic contact dermatitis (example in the photo):

  • redness and small rashes, pimples, small blisters or nodules;
  • dryness, flaking and itching;
  • swelling;
  • complications may develop in the form of weeping eczema.

If the powder gets into the nasal mucosa and respiratory tract, allergic rhinitis, lacrimation and redness of the eyes, dry cough, bronchospasms and exacerbation of asthma may appear.

A small child, due to his curiosity, can taste the washing powder if access to it is not limited in any way. In addition to allergies, this threatens poisoning with the corresponding symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, fever.

Powder intolerance: what causes it?

It is no secret that in the production process of household chemicals, the manufacturer uses a lot of aggressive chemicals.

Almost every brand of washing powder contains a number of active ingredients, including:

  • Phosphates - they are necessary to reduce the level of water hardness, as well as to increase the washing effect;
  • Whitening elements - designed to give clothing and household items sufficient whiteness;
  • Fragrances are necessary to ensure that the laundry becomes fresh after washing.

Each surfactant contained in washing powders can penetrate into materials and fabrics, remaining in them for a long time. To rid the material of surfactants, the laundry should be rinsed about eight times. Of course, this cannot be observed during every washing process.

Chemicals remaining in underwear can easily penetrate into vessels located close to the epidermis, and then spread through the blood through the organs and systems of the human body.

For this reason, intolerance to the powder not only causes local irritation of the skin, but also negatively affects the functions of the liver, immune system and kidneys.

In addition, after inhaling grains of powder, there is a risk of developing respiratory system allergies.

Intolerance in children

A big cause for concern for parents is an allergy to laundry detergent particles detected in infants.

And if for adults an allergy can be triggered by contact with the powder or the entry of its particles into the respiratory tract, then in the case of children the factors causing intolerance are slightly different.

The main factors causing intolerance in infants include:

  • Impairments in the functioning of the immune system - in newborns, the immune defense mechanism has not yet fully formed, therefore it does not always give the correct response to foreign proteins that enter the child’s body from the environment;
  • The imperfection of the skin is due to the fact that in the first weeks after birth, the skin is extremely delicate, and therefore is vulnerable to various influences from the baby’s environment. The molecules of substances contained in household products easily penetrate the thin epidermal layer.

Top 5 best hypoallergenic washing powders

Eco-friendly bleach powder Frosch

The advantage of the German brand Frosch (toad) is its environmental friendliness. This brand produces exceptionally safe household chemicals that easily cope with contamination, while being completely safe for humans. The products of this brand are ideal for families with children (from infants to teenagers).

The cost of the products is acceptable and meets the “price-quality” criterion. A bonus to the safety of the product is its concentration, so the product lasts for a long time.

Approximate price for powder (1.5 kg): 350 - 420 rubles.

Consumer reviews:

Frau Helga Super washing powder

This is an excellent alternative to expensive eco-powders. A package (600 g) lasts for a long time. The powder does not contain phosphates, is hypoallergenic, easily soluble, and temperature resistant. The only disadvantage of this powder is that it is not suitable for washing wool and silk.

The cost of a 600 g package: 90 - 120 rubles.

Consumer reviews:

Washing powder Baby Bon Automat (Delicate)

Hypoallergenic washing powder concentrate, meets all environmental standards. Suitable for all types of washing and copes well with stains (even old ones). Economical to use, it is perfect for people prone to allergies, as well as for small children.

Average price per package (450 g): 200 - 350 rubles.

Feedback from consumers:

Washing powder Burti Baby

This is an environmentally friendly washing powder that is used for both hand and machine washing. The powder is concentrated, designed for a month. Hypoallergenic and also phosphate-free.

Approximate cost of packaging (900 g): 250 - 330 rubles.

Consumer reviews:

Washing powder Amway SA8 Premium

This is one of the most popular powders. Its popularity is explained by the fact that it is an environmentally friendly product that washes even the most difficult stains at temperatures from 30 to 90 degrees. At the same time, it contains a silicic acid salt, which prevents rusting of fasteners and other metal inserts. In addition, the components of the powder do not cause irritation and are easily washed off without forming a soap film.

Approximate price of the powder: 500 - 1500 rubles.

Consumer reviews:

How does a child become allergic to powder?

Possible allergens

The aggressive substances included in the powder include:

  • Phosphates and phosphorites. Reduces water hardness when washing. Powder with these elements has a high cleansing effect.
  • Surfactants (surfactants). Thanks to the ability of surfactants to combine fat and water molecules, powders remove stains flawlessly. The most pathogenic are anion ones; they accumulate on the child’s things and are not removed even with intensive rinsing.
  • Fragrances and flavors. Refreshes and gives a pleasant aroma to linen.

One of these substances may become an allergen. It is not easy to remove them from baby’s clothes; they remain even after numerous rinses with clean water.

Reasons for the reaction

Anionic surfactants deform fats, which are an integral part of protecting children's skin. As a result of exposure to chemicals, the skin loses moisture and cannot protect the body from infection.

Phosphorites disrupt the alkaline balance and metabolism in skin cells. Allergens entering the body cause rashes.

The smell of washing powder is obtained as a result of the inclusion of dispersive substances in its composition. Getting on the nasal mucosa, they cause manifestations from the respiratory system.

Possible complications

When the allergen re-enters the child’s body, it can cause Quincke’s edema. It can manifest itself as swelling of the lips, eyelids, oral mucosa or lips. Swelling may also appear on the baby’s genitals. The danger is caused by the spread of swelling to the larynx. As a result, it becomes difficult for the child to breathe.

In some cases, a severe allergic reaction can cause anaphylactic shock. The first manifestation is itching. Then the pressure decreases and breathing becomes difficult.

In both cases, urgent hospitalization of the child is necessary. Because the condition is fraught with death. In order to prevent complications, you should consult a doctor at the first sign.

7 main mistakes in treating allergies in children

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The difference between powders for babies and adults

Until the child reaches the age of three, pediatricians advise using powders specially designed for this when washing his clothes.

But what are the specific differences between children's powders and adults?

  • Surfactant concentration. In such powders the maximum permissible concentration is no more than 15%. In addition, surfactants can be of different types, and nonionic surfactants are used in children's powders;
  • Fragrance. Often, only natural fragrance is used in children's washing powders, so they often have a fruity aroma;
  • Addition of zeolites. These are minerals of natural origin that can remove substances from the human body that are harmful to it.

Causes of allergies to washing powder

The main factor that causes an allergic reaction is various compounds of phosphorus substances. Phosphates provoke acid-base imbalance, change metabolic functions in dermal cells, resulting in allergic dermatitis. In order to understand the causes of allergies to washing powder, you should find out what phosphates are.

Phosphate compounds are something that modern people come into contact with every day, since phosphoric acids are included in medications, SMS - synthetic detergents, mineral fertilizers, and many flavoring food additives with the designation “E”. In turn, phosphates contain phosphoric acid and harmful substances - metal salts, the norm of which exists, but is unlikely to be strictly controlled. The permissible limits of arsenic per kilogram of phosphate-containing product are 3 milligrams, the amount of lead should not exceed 10 milligrams, but it is impossible to find commercially available washing powder with these parameters indicated on the packaging.

The causes of allergies to washing powder are the ways in which hazardous substances enter the human body, the most common of which are the following:

  • The skin, which is the largest organ capable of absorbing everything it comes into contact with. An allergy to washing powder is triggered by hand washing using a synthetic detergent without special gloves.
  • The factor that provokes allergies is residual microparticles of phosphates on washed clothes, which also penetrate the body through the skin. Biologists and allergists have experimentally established that to remove all, even the smallest particles of phosphate powder, it is necessary to rinse the laundry at least 8 times. It is doubtful that every housewife rinses things for an hour every time.
  • Allergies are also caused by surfactants – anionic surfactants. These are the most aggressive components of washing powders, which are transported into the body through the skin using phosphates. It is surfactants that can accumulate in the fibers of natural fabrics (bed linen) and remain there for more than three days. Even rinsing ten times cannot remove them completely.
  • The causes of allergies to washing powder are the respiratory tract, when a person is forced to inhale microscopic volatile compounds released during hand washing.
  • Phosphate compounds enter the body through water, which each of us consumes daily in one way or another. Not even the most powerful filter is capable of 100% purifying an aquatic environment contaminated with wastewater containing chemical compounds.

In addition to the fact that phosphate compounds and surfactants have an external effect on the skin, they also act on the entire body, as they are able to quickly be absorbed by the skin and penetrate through the bloodstream into internal organs and systems.

Environmental societies conducted blood tests on more than 150 housewives who used the usual standard powder. The analysis showed significant changes in the percentage of hemoglobin, changes in serum density parameters, and protein levels. Accordingly, from year to year, pathological dysfunctions of internal organs occur in the human body, metabolism is disrupted, the activity of the immune system decreases, and all conditions for the development of allergies are created.

Treatment of the disease

An allergy to washing powder can haunt a person who first becomes ill throughout his life, and it is dangerous due to the high likelihood of developing eczema.

To prevent such changes in the skin, it is necessary to treat allergies and prevent new exacerbations.

Achieving remission in adults is possible by following the following measures:

  • It is necessary to change the brand of powder and eliminate hand washing. If you have to wash by hand, you should always use thick rubber gloves.
  • When washing things in an automatic machine, you must select a mode with an additional rinse.
  • To eliminate skin irritations, antihistamine tablets, creams and ointments for allergies are used. Among the tablets, choose Loratadine, Claritin, Zestra. When a dry rash appears, the skin must be lubricated with Panthenol, Bepanten; the same ointments can be used to treat allergies in infants.


Bepanthen cream

Read about hormonal ointments for allergies here.

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If the allergy to washing powder is severe and only gets worse day by day, then you need to go to the doctor to prescribe treatment.

A dermatologist can prescribe hormonal medications that quickly eliminate severe signs of allergies.

An allergy to washing powder in a child can be confused with infectious diseases or prickly heat. Therefore, self-treatment should be undertaken only if you are sure that the skin symptoms are caused precisely by intolerance to the components of the powder remaining in the clothing.

In this case, therapy begins with changing the brand of detergent; in extreme cases, children's clothes should be washed with ordinary laundry soap.

To prevent the development of pinpoint rashes and irritation, it is necessary to rinse things thoroughly, that is, several times.

Partially destroys surfactants and ironing clothes on both sides.

Rinse aids with an acid base produced in Europe can also neutralize the components of washing powder.

We don’t have such products, but they can be successfully replaced by lemon juice or vinegar essence diluted in water. After rinsing in this solution, things will need to be rinsed additionally in clean water.

A bath with a decoction of string or chamomile and lubricating the dry rash with fatty baby creams will help eliminate the skin symptoms of allergies in infants.

Symptoms and signs

How does an allergy to washing powder manifest in children? Symptoms of the disease include:

  • severe itching and rash after the child puts on clean clothes;
  • swelling of the respiratory tract, cough. Particles of powder may remain on the fabric of clothing. By inhaling them, allergens enter the child’s body. They cause severe swelling and shortness of breath;
  • weakness, drowsiness;
  • tearfulness and irritability;
  • nausea, dizziness.

Allergists identify several signs of allergies. These include frequent sneezing and nasal congestion.

If a child puts on clean clothes and after some time begins to sneeze frequently, this is a sure sign of an allergy.

What does a child's allergy to powder look like? Photo :

You can learn about the causes and symptoms of allergies to washing powder from this video:

Children can be cured with medications and folk remedies. To do this, you need to carefully read the instructions for use.

Read about the symptoms and treatment of gluten allergy in infants here.

First of all, the child needs to take medications that eliminate itching, swelling and rash. These include:

Take medications, half a tablet twice a day.

You should not use the above drugs for more than five days.

If a child has nasal congestion or a runny nose, use Naphthyzin or Galazolin drops.

It is enough to bury them in the nose in the morning and evening. The allergic reaction will disappear in 3-5 days.

Painful areas of the skin are treated with ointments:

The products should be applied to damaged areas of the skin twice a day.

Within 2-3 days the result will be noticeable: the rash will practically disappear, the skin will stop itching. The child’s well-being will improve significantly.

Folk remedies

It is recommended to use compresses made from calendula tincture to treat the rash. To do this, mix a glass of boiling water and a large spoon of chopped herbs. It is infused for at least thirty minutes, then filtered. The finished medicine is used in the form of compresses. A cotton pad is dipped into the solution, then it is applied to painful areas of the skin for ten minutes. Then the cotton pad is removed and the skin is lightly wiped with a napkin. The procedure must be carried out twice a day. The infusion from the series will restore the child’s strength and help him recover. To do this, dissolve a large spoonful of chopped herbs in a glass of boiling water. The components must be thoroughly mixed, the solution is infused for at least an hour, then filtered. You should take the medicine 1/3 cup twice a day before meals. Ice will relieve itching and inflammation of the skin. To do this, wrap a small ice cube in a napkin and apply it to the painful area for a minute. Next, you need to take a break for five minutes, then apply ice to the damaged area again for a minute.

It is very important to cool the skin only slightly. There is no need to apply ice for too long, otherwise the procedure will cause complications.

Cold relieves burning and itching and helps heal the epidermis.

How does an allergy to washing powder manifest?

Allergic reactions can occur to a variety of substances - food, pollen, medications and much more. Even the most common washing powder can cause allergies.

At the same time, it is important to recognize the symptoms in time, begin treatment and use all possible means of prevention in the future.

The substances used as ingredients for washing powder are similar among different manufacturers. Among them, the following components most often cause an allergic reaction:

  • phosphates intended to soften tap water;
  • Surfactants (surfactants), which are the main component of most manufacturers;
  • flavorings;
  • bleaches consisting of chemical substances containing chlorine;
  • ingredients to better remove dirt from fabrics, called enzymes;
  • other components that neutralize foaming, enhance the effectiveness of the product, etc.

Phosphates. Substances in this group are toxic compounds. They are present not only in household chemicals, but also in medicines, food additives and fertilizers. They may contain lead and arsenic, the use of which is limited by regulations.

Synthetic surfactants. This is one of the most allergenic components in the detergent. Surfactants are present in large quantities in cheap powders, dishwashing liquids, carpet cleaning, etc. Surfactants are harmful in direct contact with the skin surface. They dissolve in water, but not completely.

Natural surfactants. Surfactants can be not only of synthetic origin, but also natural. Such ingredients are obtained from sugar cane, coconut, and corn. They are hypoallergenic. This type of surfactant is used only in expensive household chemicals.

Bleaches. Classified as toxic and allergenic substances, bleaches have a disinfecting effect and dissolve organic contaminants. Usually the bleaching component is chlorine or peroxides.

Enzymes. These are enzymes that dissolve persistent contaminants (fats, proteins, etc.). They also often cause allergies because they have a protein structure.

Flavors and pigments. Both pigments and fragrances are strong allergens. Fragrances give laundry a pleasant smell. The role of pigments is to preserve the color of things.

Provoking factors. The components of washing powder cause irritation when used, and even after washing they are not completely washed out of things. Even additional rinsing doesn't help. In this case, when putting on washed items, powder particles come into contact with the surface of the skin.

Other things that can trigger an allergic reaction are:

  • using too much washing powder when washing;
  • hand wash without rubber gloves;
  • using the same washing powder for washing children's underwear and clothes as for adults;
  • poor rinsing of things;
  • use of funds of dubious origin, stored in violation of the rules, etc.

An allergy can manifest itself with several symptoms or one, depending on the individual characteristics of a particular organism and the impact of the allergen.

Conjunctivitis. Tiny particles of powder can get into your eyes, causing the following symptoms:

  • redness of the eyes;
  • swelling;
  • pain in the eyes;
  • itching;
  • photophobia;
  • increased lacrimation.

Contact dermatitis. An allergy to a detergent in many cases causes a dermatological reaction. In this case, in addition to a vesicular or nodular rash, symptoms such as tissue swelling, itching and flaking may be observed.

First of all, the symptoms include a rash in those places that came into contact with the substance:

  • through clothing and bedding on which particles of powder could remain;
  • washing without rubber gloves - symptoms begin with the hands.


Severe reaction to washing powder in the form of a red rash on the body in an adult


Rash on legs after washing clothes
Respiratory manifestations. When powder particles are inhaled, the following symptoms may occur:

  • rhinitis;
  • sneezing;
  • cough;
  • dry nasal mucosa;
  • lacrimation and redness of the eyes.

Prevention methods

To prevent intolerance, the following rules should be followed:

  1. buy detergents only in places designated for sale and check for a certificate;
  2. use hypoallergenic washing powder that does not contain phosphates for washing children's clothes;
  3. carefully study the composition on the packaging; washing powder should contain surfactants at a level not exceeding 5-10%;
  4. store household chemicals hermetically sealed, far from the children's room;
  5. thoroughly rinse baby clothes, especially diapers and baby underwear;
  6. When washing in a machine, use an additional rinse mode;
  7. do not exceed the dosage of detergent recommended in the instructions;
  8. Iron the child’s clothes and bedding on both sides.

Surfactants can be neutralized by rinsing in a weak solution of acetic or citric acid. After this, the laundry should be rinsed again in warm, clean water. Hot water washes out harmful substances better than cold water.

If you cannot find a hypoallergenic product, you can replace the washing powder with traditional, generation-tested products or natural products. Most often they use simple laundry soap. It is used in the washing machine in the form of small chips. Light-colored clothes wash better if soap is mixed with baking soda. You can use more exotic remedies: wood ash extract, bean or soap root decoction, crushed chestnuts or Indian soap nuts.

What can I replace the powder with?

You can change the brand of powder to another, with less chemical content, or look towards hypoallergenic powders, but we will return to them later.

If you don’t want to take risks, there are other means you can use to wash things:

  • laundry soap - washing by hand does not require any additional actions other than its direct use, and for a washing machine you can crumble the soap into small chips and mix it with soda;
  • for natural fabrics (eg cotton) use soda ash and high temperature conditions (50-90 degrees);
  • a folk remedy made from ash, mainly from coniferous trees - you need to boil the ash for an hour, then strain through nylon tights. Can be used for washing in a washing machine;
  • Soap nuts are a natural remedy that does not cause allergies. Can be used instead of washing powder or shampoo. Safe for children.

Which powder is best for children?

Before choosing children's washing powder, you need to familiarize yourself with its composition and chemical additives. For children, it is preferable to use a hypoallergenic powder that is time-tested and does not cause side effects.

Some parents prefer Tide and Ariel powders. However, such products are not suitable for newborn babies.

Most often, young parents use Eared Nannies washing powder. It has virtually no side effects and no pungent odor, so its use is recommended for newborns.

Eared nanny does not have a phosphate compound, which has a toxic effect, however, after using it, thorough rinsing is required, since sometimes the proven powder can provoke allergies in the baby.

Myth detergent is often used for washing. Unlike the Eared Nanny brand, Myth quite often provokes the development of negative manifestations in a child, so it is not recommended for use by young children.

Allergy-free washing powder

How to choose a washing powder that does not cause allergies?

First of all, when purchasing, you must be guided not by the influence of ubiquitous advertising, an attractive price or the “charm” of economical packaging, but by common sense and an assessment of the following parameters:

  • The packaging must contain complete information about the composition of the powder, and not printed in microscopic letters, which, even if desired, cannot be read. In addition, the text must be in several languages, including the language of the country where you live.
  • The packaging must indicate the manufacturer’s coordinates (address, telephone numbers, faxes, website), and the expiration date and supplier contacts must also be clearly stated if the powder is imported.
  • The structure of the powder should be crumbly, without lumps. This indicates its quality and the minimum percentage of surfactants and phosphates.
  • Even if the packaging indicates a small percentage of phosphate substances and surfactants, and the powder foams heavily, it means that the manufacturer is being disingenuous at a minimum, and the percentage of harmful substances is actually high.
  • It is advisable to choose a washing powder without a pronounced odor or fragrance, which can either provoke an allergy or aggravate its symptoms.
  • It is better to buy good quality washing powders that do not cause allergies in specialized stores or order them from distributors of organic products. You cannot return powder purchased on the market or make any claims regarding its quality.

Washing powder that does not cause allergies must meet the following parameters:

  1. The powder should not contain anionic surfactants or phosphates. Even a small amount of them - 5-10% can cause an allergic reaction.
  2. Washing powder must be safe not only for human health, but also not pose a threat to the environment. Just one gram of sodium phosphate in wastewater can stimulate the growth of ten kilograms of cyanobacteria in the water (blue-green algae). Considering that a standard pack of powder contains about 60 grams of phosphate substances, one can imagine the concentration of toxins that 600 kilograms of cyanide release into the water.
  3. A powder designated as hypoallergenic must have an appropriate certificate and a sanitary-epidemiological conclusion.

A safe washing powder that does not cause allergies, at first glance, costs more than usual, but it is several times more economical due to the smaller dose used, which is why the following phosphate-free washing powders are very popular today:

How to choose the right powder for washing things?

Initially, pay attention to the label located on the package. The conclusion of Rospotrebnadzor guarantees the proper quality and safety of the detergent.

You should pay attention to three parameters located on the label. These are surfactants, phosphate content and flavorings. The percentage is indicated next to each component.

  • Surfactants - thanks to them, dirt is removed and the material is cleaned. The higher the surfactant content, the better the cleaning ability of the powder. But in addition, these substances can result in dry skin and flaking. It is advisable to purchase a powder in which the share of surfactants is no more than 5%;
  • Aromatic substances - give the powder the smell of freshness, pine needles, sea breeze, etc. At the same time, they can provoke an allergy attack, itching and burning sensation in the nasal cavity, and cause lacrimation. In addition, fragrances can cause asthma. The less scented the washing powder is, the safer it is.
  • Phosphates - they are necessary to soften water. This allows you to eliminate stains that are difficult to remove. But these substances themselves are also not easy to remove from the tissue. After washing, phosphates are difficult to remove from clothing items, and through the fabric they can easily penetrate into the epidermal layer of the skin. Low phosphate content - below 5 percent - ensures high safety of the powder.

Currently, almost all over the world they are trying to switch to the production of washing powders without using phosphates in their composition. These substances are toxic and pose a danger primarily to children and the elderly.

Nowadays, zeolites are becoming more common. The cost of such products is higher, but they are also safer for human health.

Diagnostics

Only a specialist, namely a dermatologist, can accurately diagnose the disease. He takes a medical history to get a clearer picture of the disease. He also prescribes medications to relieve allergy symptoms.

When symptoms occur, an allergist will usually prescribe a patch test to identify the allergen. This test is called a patch test. It consists in the fact that the patient needs to wear special patches that are treated with suspected allergens. The patches are attached to the back between the shoulder blades. They must be worn for at least 24 hours.

If, as a result, redness of more than 3 millimeters in diameter appears on the skin, this means that the substance is an allergen. After the test, appropriate treatment is also prescribed.

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