Eczema is the name given to several dermatological complaints of which the main variety is atopic dermatitis. Usually presented as patches of dry, itchy, discolored skin on the hands, legs and sometimes face, it can be a very embarrassing condition. Eczema is a condition that is almost always caused by some form of allergic response. There is a wide array of atopic dermatitis treatment options, but often prevention is key to a rash free life.

The following laundry detergents are considered safe for eczema and sensitive skin:

1. Tide Free & Gentle
We need to wear clothes and we also need to keep them clean but some detergents can severely worsen eczema symptoms. Tide Free & Gentle, however, is a detergent designed to be sensitive to delicate skin especially that of eczema sufferers. Unlike many detergents it has no dyes or perfumes which means that there are fewer chemicals involved. Perfumes in detergent can often be irritants and having these in clothing in direct contact with skin is not good for eczema. This brand also is considered allergen free and should be suitable for those with skin conditions.

2. Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent
With a dermatologist tested formula Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin detergent is ideal for delicate skin. It is hypoallergenic so it should not produce allergic responses on the skin and is also dye free. This brand does have a light scent added which is unusual for skin sensitive detergents but is still suitable for eczema sufferers. Those who prefer a non-scented version can also get the same product minus the scent agent.

3. Dreft
When dealing with eczema treatment children the whole Dreft range is suitable for this purpose. This is because the company specializes in detergents for the clothes of young children and infants. The majority of their line is pediatrician recommended and hypoallergenic. They offer lines from newborns to infants and not only produce laundry detergent but also stain removers and dryer sheets. This means that treating all fabrics that may touch a child’s skin can be treated with gentle cleaning power.

4. Purex Baby Laundry
Purex Baby is especially designed for the softest and most delicate of baby’s skin especially those that suffer infant eczema. It is an allergen free detergent that is dye free as well. It does have a light scent which leaves babies’ clothes smelling fresh and clean. The brand also offers Purex Baby Crystals that can be added to the wash for a longer lasting fresh scent.

5. Seventh Generation Free & Clear
This is a detergent that is tough on stains but gentle on the skin. Seventh Generation is both EPA and USDA certified as safe for the environment. It is hypoallergenic and 96% biologically based meaning it is largely free of synthetic chemicals making it a great option for sensitive skin types.