Are your kid's P.J.s itchy?

We still use the fragrance free laundry detergent because my middle son seems to be ultra sensitive to chemicals. He has had rashes at times and I haven't been able to figure out why. After reading this article, I wonder if it was a textile allergy. Here's the info that was emailed to me from Chicago Healers:

Clothing innovations such as wrinkle-free khakis and fire-retardant pajamas are certainly beneficial, but such items of clothing may also carry dermatological risks. According to a recent study done by the Skin and Cancer Foundation in Melbourne, Australia, textile allergies are not uncommon.

Formaldehyde, formaldehyde-releasing chemicals and Basic Red 146 dye elicited the most allergic reactions amongst study participants. Allergic reactions to fabric chemicals vary from hives to a “scalded” appearing redness. Non-dermatological reactions may include pain, swelling and fatigue. Chicago Healers Practitioner Martha Howard, MD offers tips on avoiding textile allergies.

·Avoid resin-treated clothing. Instead of purchasing wrinkle-free shirts or fire-resistant pajamas, take a few moments to iron and instruct children on fire-avoidance techniques.

·Choose white cotton socks for athletic activity, wear lighter-colored clothing directly against the skin and avoid garments containing tight bands that can rub or irritate skin.

·Perform a test to see if a garment is the source of skin irritation. Stop wearing the item for few weeks and see if symptoms go away. If they do, but return once more upon re-introduction of the clothing item into your wardrobe, discard the reactionary garment immediately.

·See an allergist if you symptoms persist to be tested specifically for allergies to formaldehyde, dyes and other irritating chemicals.

-NewsAnchorMom Jen

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