Allergy to washing powder: photos, symptoms, treatment

Washing powder is a product that modern housewives cannot do without. The shelves of supermarkets and specialty stores are filled with laundry detergents. Of course, such substances meet all the requirements of sanitary and hygienic standards, help to cope with stubborn and difficult to remove stains from clothes, and the manufacturer promises a quick effect of the product even in cold water. But there is a caveat: many older people and children are often allergic to washing powder. What is this connected with? This is due to the fact that special substances are added to laundry detergents that enhance the effectiveness of the product, but at the same time have a negative effect on human skin. Allergies to baby powder occur less frequently than to regular laundry detergent.

A negative reaction can occur after washing by hand, and even when wearing linen and clothes washed using the product. It has been proven that even thorough rinsing does not help remove the smallest coarse particles, which subsequently provoke skin irritation. It is worth noting that allergic reactions may occur to the product of one or more companies; the composition of the powders may differ. But are there laundry detergents that do not cause allergies? How to recognize the manifestation of a reaction in time? What products can be used to wash children's clothes without harming the baby? You should consider the composition of laundry detergents and find out the reasons for the reaction.

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.

What causes an allergic reaction

Manufacturers of modern household chemicals add aggressive chemical components to their products.

Every second washing powder contains harmful ingredients. These include flavors, bleaches, and phosphates. All these substances are aimed at improving the quality of washing.

Surface chemical compounds penetrate well and remain in any material. It is noteworthy that to completely remove them from the fabric, you will need to rinse at least eight times.

It will be difficult to ensure such a procedure with every wash.

Synthetic components left on the laundry easily enter the child’s blood vessels. This is due to the fact that they are located close to the epidermis.

The blood flow easily carries the harmful substance throughout the body.

The disease is more difficult to tolerate in newborns. This is due to the fact that their body is weaker than that of adults.

The following reasons are identified: the immune system is not fully formed and the baby’s skin is practically defenseless.

Foreign proteins or any external influence cause big problems for the baby. The body is not yet capable of fighting such opponents with full power.

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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Reasons for the development of the disease

The child’s body has a less stable immune system, which is why it may be sensitive to a variety of substances. Of the components included in the powder, the most allergenic are fragrances, phosphates and whitening ingredients.

They end up on the laundry when washing, and it’s difficult to remove them. As a result, they end up on the body along with clean laundry, causing allergies. A reaction may also occur if the powder comes into contact with the skin during washing.

An allergy to washing powder in a child occurs in a similar way to other types of reaction. Individual intolerance to a substance causes the production of histamine in the body upon contact with an irritant.

The risk of a reaction increases with:

• vitamin deficiency;
• chronic diseases;
• disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract;
• infectious diseases;
• weakness of the immune system;
• living in an environmentally unsafe area.

Violations of safety precautions during washing or when storing the product can complicate the situation. These products should be kept away from food and out of the reach of children.

You should also rinse your laundry thoroughly after washing. For children's clothes, you should not use powder intended for adult clothes.

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.

Ways to combat allergies

Once the pediatrician determines that the child does have an allergy and that it is caused by the detergent, he will prescribe treatment. First of all, it is necessary to limit the child’s contact with things and stop using the selected brand of powder. Then there are two treatment options: medication and folk remedies.

Medications are prescribed only by a doctor. Depending on the symptoms, the treatment method will be chosen. As a rule, drops, gels, and creams are used, which belong to the group of antihistamines, antimicrobial and wound-healing agents. The mother may be prescribed a hypoallergenic diet so that breast milk does not provoke the development of the disease.

When turning to folk remedies, also consult your pediatrician. While bathing, you can put oatmeal or soda in the water, which will help relieve irritation. Using medicinal herbs for rubbing speeds up healing. Frequent air baths and wearing light cotton clothing will help the skin heal quickly. A compress and lotions using onion juice and ice will help relieve your child's anxiety from itching.

How and in what way is the best way to treat a child, only a pediatrician can say after examination, identifying a group of symptoms and the degree of their development. In addition to treatment, prevention methods are also becoming important to help avoid relapses.

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.

Symptoms of a negative reaction

It is advisable to seek help in a timely manner, and to do this you need to know the symptoms of allergies. They can occur one at a time or in a group, depending on how sensitive the baby’s body is and the strength of the adverse effect.

Main symptoms:

• rash in the form of blisters or nodules;
• itching;
• peeling;
• swelling;
• redness;
• lacrimation;
• redness of the eyes;
• rhinitis;
• cough;
• sneeze;
• dyspnea;
• attacks of suffocation.

Photo of a rash in a child with an allergy to powder:

In infants, the listed signs may be supplemented by disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract.

The difficulty in dealing with allergies in a child is due to the fact that the baby cannot describe his feelings. Parents should know what this disease looks like so they can take action and help their child. But it is prohibited to take any action on your own, since the allergic reaction is similar to many other diseases, which is why an accurate diagnosis can only be determined through laboratory tests.

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.

Treatment of infants

To eliminate negative reactions, you need to find out what led to their occurrence. Therefore, sensitivity tests need to be carried out. After identifying irritants, the child’s contact with them should be excluded.

If you suspect an allergy to powder (Persil, Tide, etc.), you must stop using it for washing baby clothes. This will avoid worsening symptoms.

You can get rid of existing manifestations with the help of antihistamines. They prevent the production of histamine, ensuring the elimination of negative effects. Such drugs are systemic and local, and the choice of one type or another is determined by the characteristics of the reaction.

Local remedies relieve skin manifestations. If symptoms affect the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract, it is worth using systemic medications - they affect the body as a whole. You also need to take into account the characteristics of age - not all medications are suitable for children.

The wrong drug can eliminate pathological signs, but can affect the child’s condition.

If necessary, healing and anti-inflammatory ointments, enterosorbents, and nasal drops are used. Hormonal drugs are prescribed to infants in severe cases.

Basic medications:

1. Fenistil (gel or drops). You can use the product from 1 month. It relieves burning and itching, fights lacrimation.
2. Zyrtec. The drug in the form of drops is prescribed to babies aged 6 months. It has an anti-inflammatory effect, but may cause nausea and insomnia.
3. Enterosgel. The medicine is suitable for oral administration. It is designed to remove toxins and relieve allergic symptoms. It can be used at any age.
4. Bepanten. This cream is safe for children. It accelerates tissue healing, eliminates inflammation and rashes.
5. Nazivin. These drops relieve nasal congestion. A child under 1 year of age may be prescribed Nazivin with an active substance content of 0.01%.

Video from Dr. Komarovsky:

It is allowed to use children's hypoallergenic creams containing extracts of calendula or sea buckthorn. They soothe the skin and fight irritation.

Breastfed children should not be switched to formula during periods of exacerbation of allergies. Breast milk helps strengthen the baby’s body and speeds up the elimination of diseases. But the mother should follow a hypoallergenic diet.

Folk remedies will also help. Worth using:

1. Nettle . Dry grass can be brewed and the resulting composition can be used to treat the child’s skin.
2. Chamomile . A decoction of it soothes the skin and relieves inflammation.
3. Calendula . A tincture is prepared on its basis, which can be added to the bath or when making compresses.
4. Ice . Treating irritated skin with small ice cubes can also help you feel better.

Plants also cause allergies, especially if the body is prone to this disease. Therefore, special care is needed when using traditional medicines.

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.

Useful information for parents

Remember: your baby's skin is very sensitive and needs special care.

1. If you have an established allergy to household chemicals, use only high-quality, eco-friendly washing powder for your children's and your clothes.
   The clothes of a young mother also need to be washed with hypoallergenic powder, since the baby comes into contact with them.
2. Use new cosmetics and medications with caution.
3. Do not use creams that have expired.
4. Pay attention to the composition of cosmetic products. It is better to choose products without fragrances and preservatives.
5. Show your baby to an allergist and dermatologist in a timely manner.

Do not use soap, it dries out the skin too much.

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:

Prevention

It is best to use these tips before the disease manifests itself. No brand makes a universal powder that does not cause allergies. It also cannot be said that this powder is allergic and the other is not.

Each child needs to choose his own remedy. There are several ways to help prevent reactions to powder in children.

1. If you choose a new brand of baby laundry detergent, you should wash your clothes by hand for the first time. Pay attention to how the skin of your hands reacts. Redness and irritation are a reason to refuse to use this product.
2. Be sure to wash and rinse items in hot water. It destroys many chemicals contained in powders. Another way to destroy allergenic components is to rinse things with lemon juice. Its acid will destroy the chemical components that are absorbed into the fabric structure. In order to work in the medical field in our time, you will need to buy a specialist’s medical accreditation and with the specialist’s accreditation you will be able to work in the medical field! After this procedure, things will need to be rinsed again in clean water.
3. It is important to keep the powder away from other chemicals and laundry.
4. When using the detergent, follow all the manufacturer's recommendations indicated on the packaging. This applies to the choice of fabric, degree of loading, and choice of temperature conditions. Don’t think that with more powder, children’s clothes will wash better. This is wrong. Its effectiveness depends not on quantity, but on quality.
5. Replacing powder with soap, for example, baby or laundry soap. To use it for machine washing, you just need to turn it into shavings.
6. After washing, you should iron your child’s clothes on both sides. With the help of steam, chemical components ingrained into the fabric will be destroyed.

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.