Surcare Sensitive Laundry Capsules Review
We’re well into the start of winter weather now – Dark rainy mornings and cold evenings with the central heating. Stuffy living rooms and long sleeved jumpers with itchy elbows. It’s about now that eczema starts to flare more that usual.
In fact, last week was National Eczema Week and we spent it testing out a sensitive skin laundry product that aims to avoid triggering eczema.
Surcare products do not include ingredients that are known to irritate sensitive skin such as enzymes, dyes, acids and most notably fragrances.
Their product aims to leave washing clean and fresh with a ‘just off the line’ feel to it.
So is this product any good? We think so. We found Surcare laundry capsules left our washing clean, soft and fresh when used in a mixed load of family washing on a typical 40 degree wash.
Best of all, the product does not have any fragrances, something which can be really problematic for people with eczema and autism
As part of National Eczema Week, Surcare worked with Harley Street Dermatologist, Dr. Adam Friedmann to put together tips to avoid exacerbating the skin condition.
Here are some of the most common eczema irritants to watch out for:
Hot Water
The cold winter months might make it tempting to turn up the heat when it comes to bathing, showering and hand-washing, but try to refrain from doing this, since the mixture of hot water and cold temperatures can leave your skin feeling raw and exposed. Aim to bathe in lukewarm water to keep the temperature differences to a minimum. When drying your skin, pat until dry with a soft towel (rather than rubbing) and moisturise immediately, as this will help keep skin moist and reduce the chances of triggering an eczema flare up. I suggest using bath oils in the bath and emollients to wash the skin with rather than soaps, as these can be an irritant.
Dry Air
One of the most common eczema irritants is central heating, which affects our skin in the same way that air conditioning does — by removing the air of any moisture that dries our skin out. These dry air environments which we surround ourselves in, particularly in winter, can increase the chances of a flare up. Try using a thick moisturiser every morning and evening to keep your skin nourished throughout the day, whilst also drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
Clothing
The cold weather often means we’re drawn to wearing thick woolly or fleece jumpers. However, synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon and rayon, which are commonly found in our clothing, can cause us to sweat more, which irritates eczema-prone skin. Try wearing clothes made from natural materials such as cotton, which will allow the skin to breathe and be less likely to become irritated.
Washing detergents
When washing your clothes, think gentle. Our garments constantly come into contact with your skin and certain chemicals used in laundry detergents can contribute to eczema flare ups. Try washing clothes with dermatologically-friendly washing powders, such as Surcare, which is free from unnecessary ingredients such as enzymes, dyes, acids or fragrances, and is much less likely to cause skin irritation.
Cleaning Products
Household cleaning products, including liquids and sprays, can irritate the skin causing a type of eczema called irritant contact dermatitis (ICD). According to the National Eczema Society, people with a history of atopic eczema are more likely to have sensitive skin and are therefore more prone to ICD. Try gentle versions of cleaners, go for more ‘natural’ cleaning solutions such as white vinegar, or wear gloves to minimise contact. Dust mites can also trigger eczema, so try damp dusting to get rid of the dust instead of just moving it around.
Winter colds and sniffles
The cold elements outside can leave many of us with a runny nose or even a winter cold, which often leaves us blowing or wiping our nose. This repetitive action can leave your skin feeling irritated and can trigger an eczema flare up. Try using a greasier emollient when moisturising your face, to help protect your skin from nose blowing.
Surcare products are available from supermarkets including Sainsbury’s and Waitrose and also available online from Amazon