Laundry Detergent Ingredient Analysis: Fluorescent Brighteners, Enzymes, Surfactants - What to Avoid and What to Choose?
Published: February 2, 2026
Views: 1
๐งช The Choice for Your Skin: Analysis of Key Laundry Detergent Ingredients and a Wise Selection Guide
It is important to accurately understand the ingredients of laundry detergent, which washes the clothes that touch your skin every day. Especially with the increase in products labeled 'eco-friendly' or 'additive-free,' it can be difficult to know which ingredients enhance cleaning power and which ones irritate the skin. We provide an analysis of the core ingredients of laundry detergent and a wise guide on what to avoid and what to choose for sensitive skin.
๐ The 3 Core Ingredients and Roles of Laundry Detergent
| Ingredient | Role | Features and Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Surfactants | Main cleaning component that surrounds dirt and dissolves it in water | The core of cleaning power. Divided into petroleum-based (synthetic) and plant-based (natural), they can be a major cause of skin irritation. |
| Enzymes | Catalysts that break down specific contaminants like protein, fat, and starch | Excellent for removing specific stains like set-in grime, sebum, and food stains. |
| Builders/Alkaline Agents | Auxiliary components that reduce water hardness and increase detergent cleaning power | Maximizes detergent effect by raising PH. Mainly found in powder detergents. |
๐จ The Center of Controversy: Fluorescent Brightener (Optical Brightener)
- Role: Applies an invisible blue fluorescent substance to clothes, making yellowed clothes visually appear whiter. (Not actual bleaching.)
- Problem: The fluorescent substance remains on clothes and can irritate the skin. Its use is recommended to be avoided, especially for baby clothes or sensitive skin.
- Choice: It is best to choose 'Fluorescent Brightener Free' detergent for baby clothes, underwear, and towels.
๐ฟ Detergent Selection Guide for Sensitive Skin
1. Choose Low-Irritation/Natural Surfactants:
- Check if the surfactants, which determine cleaning power, are made from plant-derived ingredients like coconut or palm. They are more expensive than synthetic surfactants but leave less residue and cause less irritation on the skin.
2. Liquid or Pod Detergents:
- Powder detergents contain many builders (alkaline substances) to increase cleaning power, which increases the likelihood of residue remaining when dissolving in water.
- Liquid detergents dissolve well and leave less residue, making rinsing easier, which is better for sensitive skin.
3. Avoid Excessive Fragrances/Dyes:
- Artificial fragrances and dyes in detergents are unrelated to cleaning power and can be a major cause of skin allergies. It is better to choose unscented or naturally scented products with essential oils.
Detergent choice is directly related to skin health. It is important to carefully check the ingredient label and rinse thoroughly after using detergent.