Britain is becoming a nation of bewildered shoppers who subject themselves to unnecessary ailments because they are so confused by the choice of detergents on the market today!

It's no wonder we don't always know what to choose when you consider the hundreds of different washing powders, liquids, capsules and tablets that are available. When it comes to choosing bio or non-bio, perfumed or non-perfumed, or ones with added conditioner, it seems we don't always make the right choice and we end up suffering skin complaints as a result.

One in 12 of the adult population and as many as one in five children, suffer from eczema or dry skin conditions. In addition, one third of the population suffers from the general condition of 'sensitive skin', which can be avoided by a programme of self-management.

Surcare brand marketing manager, Melanie Mason said: "Skin problems are a growing area of concern to health professionals and have a considerable impact on the resources of the NHS. With around 33% of the population affected, up to 10% of GPs' workload is now accounted for by this area.

"Selecting the right laundry and wash products is one of the keys to controlling symptoms for many sensitive skin sufferers. Many detergent products contain a whole range of substances, including enzymes, perfumes and detergents which can leave residual traces in fabrics. Since many of these fabrics are then used in direct contact with the skin, problems can arise.

"Surcare is specially formulated and tested to be more suitable for people with dry or sensitive skin and is completely free from perfumes and other unnecessary additives."

A group of health professionals from all parts of the NHS and representing all professional health bodies formed a Dermatological Care Working Group (DCWG) to examine the problems and advise on best practise.

Amongst their findings, it was stated that 80% of all skin problems and dermatology consultations arise from a small number of conditions including eczema and dermatitis. These can be controlled by effective patient self-management in the majority of cases and by people being aware that washing products could be a factor in their skin problems.

The DCWG also found that most patients are inadequately informed about skin conditions and the treatment and management of sensitive skin.

Surcare is the only perfume and colour free laundry and washing up range linked with Talkeczema, www.talkeczema.com; a free on-line support group.

The Surcare range is available in all leading supermarkets.

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- The new look Surcare range -
JPEG available on request

Notes to editors:
Surcare's range of laundry, fabric conditioner and concentrated washing up products contain no added perfume or colour. The laundry powder, tablets and laundry liquid wash are non-biological.

Created for more sensitive skins, the range has been dermatologically tested against other UK brands, is dermatologist approved and is available in all leading supermarkets.

McBride, manufacturer of the Surcare range, is a leading international developer of laundry, household cleaning, and personal care products.

Employing more than 4,500 staff in seven countries across Europe, McBride is Europe's largest private label company in its markets and provides focus and innovation at every level of research, development and production.

For further Surcare product information please visit www.mcbride.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Surcare by Weber Shandwick, North. For further information, please contact: