Ingredient
Optical Brighteners
What is Optical Brighteners?
Optical brighteners are synthetic chemicals used in laundry detergents to enhance the appearance of fabrics. They work by transforming UV light waves into visible blue light, which makes fabrics appear whiter and brighter.
In laundry products, they are used to make clothes look cleaner and fresher than they are. There is limited evidence on the health impact of optical brighteners, though they are generally considered safe for typical household use. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation from residues left on laundered items.
When you see optical brighteners on a label, it indicates that the product is intended to enhance fabric appearance, commonly used in clothing care products.
Commonly found in: Laundry detergents, Fabric softeners, Clothing rinses
What to watch
- Optical brighteners can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
- They enhance the appearance of fabrics, making them look brighter.
Optical brighteners are not subject to specific restrictions by the FDA for use in consumer products.
There is limited research on the long-term effects of optical brighteners on health, with some studies indicating potential for skin irritation.
Optical brighteners are typically synthetic and not derived from animal sources, aligning with vegan preferences.
Sources: Safety of Optical Brighteners
Scout's take
Optical brighteners are synthetic chemicals that coat fabric to make it appear whiter under UV light. They do not rinse out fully, remain on skin-contact fabric, and are not readily biodegradable.
Found in 2 products
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