LAUNDRY

Is Your Detergent Itching Your Skin? A Dermatitis Checklist

Written by Kay Baker, MS, OTR/L — CEO & Co-Founder • Reviewed by Matthew Keasey, Ph.D. — Chief Science Officer • Last reviewed: January 9, 2026

Transparency note: This article cites government sites, standards bodies, and peer-reviewed sources wherever possible. Educational only, not medical or legal advice.

Is your skin itchy, red, or bumpy for no apparent reason? You’ve changed your lotion, your soap, and your diet, but the rash persists. The answer might be hugging you right now. Contact dermatitis from laundry detergent is one of the most common, and overlooked skin issues in adults and children.

Your clothes sit against your skin 24/7. If they are coated in irritants, your skin never gets a break. Let’s play detective and see if your laundry routine is the villain.

The "Itch" List: Common Triggers

1. Preservatives (Methylisothiazolinone): Used in liquid detergents to stop mold. It’s a top allergen.

2. Fragrance Mixes: Even "natural" scents can trigger sensitive skin.

3. Dyes: Why is the soap blue? Your clothes don't need to be blue. It’s just a chemical dye that sits on your skin.

4. Enzymes (Sometimes): While great for stains, high concentrations of certain enzymes can irritate super-sensitive skin if not rinsed well.

The "Strip It" Solution

If you suspect your detergent, try this:

1. The Rewash: Wash all your clothes in hot water with no detergent to strip out the buildup.

2. The Switch: Switch to a powder (no liquid preservatives) that is free from dyes and perfumes.

3. The Rinse: Add an extra rinse cycle to your machine.

Why Green Llama is Skin-Safe

Our Fragrance-Free Laundry Powder is designed for the sensitive crowd.

• No Liquid Preservatives: Because it’s dry, we don't need them.

• No Dyes: It’s white powder. Simple.

• Rinses Clean: Our formula is designed to leave the fabric, not coat it.

The Bottom Line

Your skin is your largest organ. Treat it with respect. If you are itching, stop scratching and start switching. A hypoallergenic laundry routine is often the cure you’ve been looking for.

Healing your skin starts with removing irritants, but maintaining a healthy home requires a total routine shift. For a deep dive into choosing the right water temperatures, eco-friendly drying tips, and long-term habits, explore our Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Laundry.

Ready to stop the itch? Switch to our Fragrance-Free Laundry Powder and feel the relief of truly clean clothes.