Truly Free

Sensitive Skin During Menopause? Your Laundry Detergent Might Be to Blame

Posted By: Tay Roberts

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Posted On: 8/10/2025

Find out how your laundry detergent may be affecting menopausal skin sensitivity and what you can do to get relief.

You may be familiar with typical menopause symptoms: hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and irregular periods. (To name a few.) 

But did you know that hormonal shifts during menopause dramatically increase skin sensitivity?

Understanding Menopausal Skin Sensitivity

During menopause—and perimenopause, the stage leading up to menopause—women experience a decline in estrogen, which causes their bodies to produce less collagen and natural oils

As a result, you may notice thinner, itchier, or drier skin. Or, we’re sorry to say, all three. Your skin can also become more reactive, making it easier for irritants to penetrate and cause discomfort.

In fact, throughout menopause, many women discover even their softest t-shirts, bed sheets, and towels feel scratchy or uncomfortable. Some even notice new sensitivities, unexplained rashes, or itching after wearing freshly washed clothes.

The Hidden Threat in Your Laundry Detergent

Conventional laundry detergents often contain a slew of irritating ingredients, including dyes, thickeners, and toxic chemical fragrances that can wreak havoc on skin—menopause or not. 

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, for example, is a commonly used chemical surfactant that can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation, particularly for women experiencing menopause.

Synthetic fragrance is also one of the top skin irritants in big-name laundry detergents. And the harmful chemicals used to make that mountain fresh or lemon scent can stick around, even after the rinse cycle, exacerbating skin reactions. Many toxic fragrance also known endocrine disruptors like phthalates, which can throw off hormone balance and make menopause symptoms worse.

How to Detox Your Laundry Routine During Menopause

Your clothes are like a second skin. So what you wash them in matters. If you’ve noticed changes in your skin as estrogen declines, try Truly Free Home Laundry Wash.

Available in an unscented and essential oil-based scented option, our Laundry Wash is made with plant-based ingredients, essential oils, and never any sulfates, phosphates, chlorine, or toxic chemical fragrances, making it a natural choice for sensitive skin during menopause. And instead of harsh Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, our formula uses Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, an organic salt that’s ultra-gentle and removes dirt and grime without irritating—so it’s tough on stains, too.

For best results, detox your washing machine with Truly Free Home's Laundry Machine Cleaner first to remove trapped bacteria, mold, and harsh detergent residue hiding in your washer.

Finding relief during this major hormonal shift might be as simple as changing your laundry routine. 

Ready to feel at ease in your own skin? Make the switch today.

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Tay Roberts

Tay Roberts, a mom of two and Northern Michigan native, is a non-toxic living advocate, sustainability enthusiast, and holistic wellness champion. As a social media manager and product educational specialist at Truly Free, Tay blends her personal values with professional expertise to inspire others towards healthier choices. Through engaging content and strategic campaigns, she educates and empowers individuals to make informed decisions that prioritize well-being and the planet's health. Tay's commitment to fostering a community centered around conscious living shines through in her digital presence, making her a beacon of inspiration for a healthier, happier tomorrow.