Clean and Clear: The Surprising Connection Between Laundry and Skin Health

We become conscious of the products we put on our faces, but have you ever thought that your laundry habits might also affect your skin health? It might be difficult to believe at first, but how you wash your clothes significantly impacts your skin’s health. The amount of detergent you pour in, how it is cleaned at the laundry service, and how long your clothes are dry these laundry practices may cause your skin problems.

Let’s explore the connection between laundry and skin health and their possible solutions.

Types of Skin Problems Related to Laundry Practice

Contact dermatitis is the most common skin problem that is related to laundry. It is an allergic reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant, and these irritants could be the chemicals in the laundry detergent’s ingredients. People with eczema and other skin conditions are particularly susceptible to contact dermatitis. 

Skin acne is the second most common skin problem related to laundry practice. It can be acne on your face, back, or body. This is usually caused by clothes that are not appropriately washed; the trap of dirt and bacteria clog the pores and lead to breakouts. Besides inadequately washed clothes, fabric softeners and dryer sheets may also leave residue on clothes that clog pores and contribute to acne.

Folliculitis is another skin problem that may arise. This is a condition in which hair follicles become inflamed due to bacterial or fungal infection. If you do not wash your clothes frequently, or your washing machine and dryer are not regularly cleaned, these can contribute to developing folliculitis.

Urticaria or hives is a known skin rash developed with poor laundry habits. It is characterized by itchy, raised bumps on the skin. When you are exposed to certain laundry products, it can trigger an allergic reaction that leads to urticaria.

Possible Solution to Skin Health Problems Due to Laundry Practice

The solutions to these skin problems are simple. You can help alleviate your symptoms by correcting your laundry habits and following these:

Choose gentle laundry products. Look for detergents and fabric softeners that are designed for sensitive skin. These products are usually free of harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate the skin.

Avoid dryer sheets. While they may make your clothes feel soft and smell good, dryer sheets can leave a residue on clothes that can irritate the skin. Instead, try using wool dryer balls, which can help soften clothes without using chemicals.

Rinse clothes thoroughly. Make sure to rinse clothes thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent or fabric softener that could irritate the skin.

Dry clothes completely. Ensure that the clothes, sheets, and towels are completely dry before you use them. Fungi and bacteria that may develop on damp fabrics can lead to skin infections.

Wash your clothes in warm water. Hot water can kill bacteria, but it can also damage fabrics and cause colors to fade. Warm water is a good compromise, as it can help remove dirt and bacteria without causing damage to your clothes. However, before you do this, check on the wash label first, as some clothes are incompatible with washing in warm water.

Consider a laundry service. If you're struggling to find the right laundry products or simply don't have the time to do laundry yourself, consider using a laundry service. These services can take care of all your laundry needs, using gentle products that are safe for your skin.

Is Laundry Service Helpful?

While others see laundry service as a luxury, it can be a helpful solution for those with skin problems due to laundry practice. The wash and fold service staff may take the guesswork out of choosing the right laundry products and ensure that your clothes are washed efficiently and safely for your skin.

Besides helping you regain your skin health, laundry service saves you time and energy, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your health and wellness.

Final Takeaway

Taking care of our skin is essential for our overall health and well-being. Besides thinking of the products we apply to our skin, considering the impact of our laundry habits on our skin health should also be taken into account.