A fabric softener is specifically designed to minimize the amount of static in synthetic fibers and composed of various chemicals in which some are major irritants on the skin. Children, infants, elderly and individuals who have weakened immune systems are more sensitive to the chemicals present in fabric softeners and more likely to end up with reactions.
Contact dermatitis is the reaction of the skin once it is exposed to an allergen such as the fabric softener. The indications of an allergic reaction to fabric softener can include a reddened rash or bumps, pain, itchiness, tenderness or a localized rash. There are 2 chemicals in fabric softeners that are responsible of the reactions – imidazolidinyl and quanternium which are described as formaldehyde releasers. In a severe reaction to fabric softener, it can trigger hives on the skin. Even the fumes can trigger irritation which leads to difficulty breathing, tiredness, dizziness, anxiety, headaches, memory problems and fainting.
Management
It is best to remove the clothing suspected of causing an allergic reaction and instruct the individual to avoid scratching the affected area. The over-the-counter variants of anti-itch creams that include hydrocortisone can relieve the discomfort or the application of moist dressings on the skin. It usually takes 2-4 weeks for a skin reaction to subside.
In case hives develop, an over-the-counter antihistamine can be given every 6 hours until the symptoms subside.
Possible alternatives
Even though a fabric softener makes clothes feel nice, there are alternatives for those who are prone to an allergic reaction. The fabric softener can be replaced with vinegar to help soften the laundry in a natural manner. All you have to do is add ¾ of a cup of vinegar to the last rinse cycle of the laundry.
Considerations to bear in mind
If the individual is worried about a reaction to fabric softener, he/she can wash the clothes again to check if the symptoms reoccur. If they do, consult an allergist so that an accurate diagnosis can be given.
A doctor must be consulted if the individual experiences sleep disruptions from the skin discomfort, pain, skin infection or if the individual is embarrassed how his/her skin looks.