The last thing parents of newborn babies want to do is cause any sort of pain or discomfort for their children. However, a recent study published in Pediatrics suggests that a certain ingredient in baby wipes could be responsible for skin irritation and rashes.
According to Fox News, the study reveals that a preservative called methylisothiazolinone (MI) that is present in a number of wet wipes can lead to acute contact dermatitis, which is often misdiagnosed as psoriasis or eczema. Researchers reportedly found that patients who suffered from this skin condition had been using wet wipes containing MI, and that their rashes disappeared once they discontinued use of these products.
"Wet wipes are increasingly marketed in personal care products for all ages, and [methylisothiazolinone] exposure and sensitization will likely increase," wrote study author Dr. Mary Wu Chang, as noted by International Business Times. "Dermatitis of the perianal, buttock, facial, and hand areas with a history of wet wipe use should raise suspicion of [allergic contact dermatitis] to [methylisothiazolinone] and prompt appropriate patch testing."
With this information in mind, it's imperative that parents diligently check the ingredients in the baby wipes they're purchasing to ensure that they're not using products that could cause harm to their babies.
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), 13 percent of children in the United States under the age of 17 suffer from skin allergies. Fortunately, there are allergy prevention products that can ensure symptoms are kept to a minimum. Check out the Allergy Be Gone website today to find out more about our skin care products, hypoallergenic bedding and more.