The German Society for Allergy and Asthma said that the sensitivity of washing powders and detergents falls within what is known as "contact allergy", and it occurs as a result of skin allergy to substances in washing powders and detergents such as enzymes, aromatics, and dyes.
Symptoms of allergy to washing powders are rash, redness and dryness of the skin, itching and swelling, burning and pain in the affected area, and in severe cases it may even amount to shortness of breath.
The association pointed out that the treatment of allergy to washing powders is done by taking antihistamines and ointments containing cortisone, taking into account the use of washing powders and detergents intended for allergy sufferers.