Infants and kids have increased skin sensitivity as compared to adults. This makes them prone to skin problems, making it difficult to pick items like soaps and laundry detergent for them. Detergents, in fact, are one of the primary causes of skin diseases as they contain several chemicals. Before buying any laundry detergent or soap for sensitive skin, it is recommended to read the labels, understand the ingredients, and buy the right medicated options.

Ingredients to Avoid in Soaps and Detergents for Sensitive Skin

1. Bleach
Bleach is a highly reactive substance, and exposing your child to it can cause eye irritation, shortness of breath, and blurry vision. You should avoid detergents with bleach and choose detergents made with natural products. Alternately, you can presoak baby clothes with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for the same result.

2. Phthalates
Many products we use may contain phthalates, which are used as fragrance additives. They remain on the surface of the product and slowly transfer into our bodies. The parabens in detergent also stay on the clothes’ surface and lead to skin problems, particularly in babies. Avoid detergents with parabens and go for fragrance-free detergents.

3. Fragrances
Many of us tend to buy a detergent based on its attractive fragrance. Fragrances are made with low-cost chemicals sourced from petroleum by-products, including benzene and aldehydes. Look at the labels and buy products containing essential oils, which add fragrance but are also safe for a baby’s skin.

4. Parabens
Parabens are banned in many countries as they cause skin irritation and fertility-related issues. Look for methylparaben, butylparaben, propylparaben, and ethylparaben, and avoid such detergents. Look for soaps that have natural preservatives and choose them instead.

5. Sulfates
Sulfates can cause eye and skin problems in your baby and also lead to respiratory issues. Look at labels and avoid detergents that contain sulfates. Use only soaps and detergents that are labeled sulfate-free.

Top Medicated Detergents That Are Safe for Your Child
With rising awareness and increasing cases of detergent-related skin problems, many brands have introduced natural and medicated soaps and detergents. These contain antibacterial properties and have been tested safe for all kids, particularly kids with sensitive skin. Since the products have antibacterial properties, they prevent germs from breeding in your child’s clothes.

1. Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent
This has both hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties. It is also certified by National Eczema Association and is safe for your baby. It is available in the form of powder, liquid, and pods.

2. Rockin Green Hard Rock Powder Laundry Detergent
It is a medicated soap with antibacterial properties and is unscented. It is free from all harmful chemicals.

3. Arm & Hammer
This is also a medicated soap with antibacterial properties for sensitive skin. Dermatologists have recommended it as a safe option for a baby’s skin.

4. ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent
This is a medicated soap with antibacterial properties, and it is free of chemicals. The product is dermatologist-tested and recommended as a safe purchase.