Redness, Swelling, or Bumps
A common symptom of a laundry detergent allergy can be the appearance of redness, swelling, or small bumps on your skin. A contact dermatitis reaction causes these symptoms, triggered by some chemicals in the detergent that are touching your skin, causing it to become irritated and inflamed.
Itching
Another symptom indicating a potential laundry detergent allergy is persistent itching. When the skin is irritated by the allergenic materials in the detergent, it can induce an intense itch that persists despite your attempts to soothe it with over-the-counter skincare products.
Respiratory Issues
Laundry detergent allergies can also cause respiratory problems. Some people may experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny or congested nose, tightness in the chest, wheezing, or even trouble breathing if they inhale the detergent's fragrance or other elements.
Hives
Developing hives, also known as urticaria, can be a symptom of a laundry detergent allergy. Hives are red, itchy welts that erupt on the skin's surface when your body reacts to an allergen like chemicals or fragrance in your laundry detergent.
Skin Rash
Developing a rash is a typical skin reaction to a laundry detergent allergy. The rash looks like a patch of aggravated, red, and often flaky skin that can appear anywhere your clothing, bedding, or towels have come into contact with.
Dry, Cracked Skin
Last but not least, your skin may become dry and cracked upon exposure to an allergenic laundry detergent. This reaction is caused by the detergent stripping your skin of its natural oils, causing it to become dehydrated and vulnerable to cracks and fissures. Moisturizing may offer temporary relief, but the skin's condition will not improve until the allergen exposure is eliminated.