It’s common for some people to experience itching on their hands after using detergent to wash clothes. This discomfort can stem from a variety of reasons, from allergic reactions to skin sensitivity towards the chemicals found in laundry products.

Understanding the reasons behind itchiness after detergent use is crucial to preventing further irritation and finding the right remedy. So, what exactly causes this problem? Read on to learn more about it in this article.

Causes of Itchiness After Washing with Detergent

Allergic Reactions to Chemicals

One of the primary causes of itchiness after using detergent is an allergic reaction to certain chemicals present in the product. Added substances like fragrances, colorants, and preservatives are common allergens that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.

Typically, allergic reactions to detergents include the following symptoms:

• Skin redness

• Skin irritation

• Intense itching

• Swelling

• A feeling of heat on the skin

• Tenderness or pain when touching the skin

• Bumps or raised areas on the skin

• Blisters or welts on the skin

Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin are more prone to irritation or itchiness when exposed to detergent. Sensitive skin reacts quickly to even mild chemicals, which might not bother others but can cause discomfort for those with this condition.

When individuals with sensitive skin use detergent, they may experience symptoms such as:

• Light irritation

• Skin redness

• A stinging or burning feeling

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis refers to a skin condition triggered by direct contact with specific substances like detergents. Ingredients such as fragrances, preservatives, surfactants, and bleaches found in detergents can cause allergic reactions or irritate the skin, particularly in those with contact dermatitis.

Signs of contact dermatitis usually include:

• Itching with accompanying rashes

• Darker patches of skin than usual

• Dry, cracked, or flaky skin

• Swelling, blisters, and sometimes pus-filled lesions

• Sensitive, burning, and painful skin

Harsh Detergent Chemicals

Some detergents are formulated with powerful chemicals designed to tackle stubborn stains. While they work well for cleaning, these stronger chemicals can irritate the skin, especially if protective gloves aren’t worn while washing.

Moreover, detergent residue left on clothes after washing can also lead to itching. If clothes aren’t rinsed thoroughly, any remaining detergent on the fabric can irritate the skin, causing discomfort when it comes into contact with the skin.

How to Prevent Itchiness After Washing

To avoid itchiness after using detergent, here are a few steps you can take:

• Choose hypoallergenic detergents, which are free from fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.

• Wash clothes thoroughly, rinsing them at least twice to ensure all detergent is removed.

• Wear gloves while hand-washing to protect your hands from direct contact with detergent.

• Apply a moisturizer after washing to keep your skin hydrated and prevent irritation.

• Opt for detergents with mild chemicals or environmentally friendly options.

If itching persists or is accompanied by swelling, blisters, or signs of infection, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.

Additionally, you can use the Ai Care app for consultations, available for download on both the App Store and Play Store.

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