Understanding the cause of your allergies helps avoid contact with potentially hydrogenated ingredients in dishwashing soap or another product. Scents in dish liquids might cause a respiratory irritation, however, according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, most complaints are usually that of contact dermatitis, a skin response. These complaints are usually caused by the dyes, fragrances, chemicals — as well as the natural ingredients — added into the dish soap formula.
Artificial Dyes
Many dish detergent companies make hypoallergenic and dye-free formulas, a good starting point when you have known allergies to dish soaps. A number of dyes may present allergic reactions, the majority of which are skin rashes or hives. According to Drugs.com, dyes like Yellow No. 5 may create both skin-related symptoms and respiratory issues. Many consumer, even those without allergies, are worried about dyes, since studies have linked a lot of the dyes to tumors in laboratory experiments with mice.
Added Fragrances
Symptoms of fragrance allergies include irritation, sneezing, itching, itching or burning eyes, and contact dermatitis like rashes or hives. Fragrances might even cause breakouts if you’re subject to allergies, according to Diana Rodriguez, writing for Everyday Health. If fragrance is a problem, washing dishes, then cleaning and draining the sink nicely prior to a guest with allergies arrives may be an alternative. Be sure to use an unscented sink cleaner, also.
Natural Ingredients
Some dish soaps are made with all natural ingredients, but that does not mean they don’t possess fragrances or other allergens inside them. Natural fragrance might be added from citrus or eucalyptus plants, mint or blossoms, and all are possible allergens. Natural colors might also be a source of allergies. As an example, Mercola.com reports that Citrus Red No. 2 is made of orange skins. Although it’s a natural ingredient, it could negatively impact you, in case you’re allergic to oranges. Keep an eye out for tree and nut oils, also. In this case, also, knowing the reason for your allergic response and reading labels is critically important.
Allergies to Hypoallergenic Soap
A compound found in some organic and hypoallergenic soaps has been proven to cause allergic reactions. According to Channel 13 ABC News in Houston, Texas, a compound known as “methylchloroisothiazolinone,” also known as MI, has been utilized in some skin-care products and various soaps labeled for anyone who have sensitive skin. This serves as a reminder that MI and other chemicals used in hypoallergenic or skin-sensitive products may cause allergic reactions in some consumers. Some producers have pulled products with MI off the market, while others continue to use the chemical within limits set by governments.