Why Is It Better Not To Use Wet Wipes?
Wet wipes are very popular with many mothers because they don’t just use them to wipe their baby’s buttocks. They’re also popular for cleaning face and hands when you’re out and about.
This cosmetic product is indispensable for many mothers nowadays. The problem, however, is that it can damage the baby’s skin because its components contain phenoxyethanol. This is a chemical that has been linked to dermatitis.
The substance mentioned causes an allergic reaction in many babies. In addition, the effect can not only be seen on the skin, but can also irritate the child’s airways.
Furthermore, some consumer organizations have classified phenoxyethanol as carcinogenic. In addition, this substance can inhibit your child’s natural immune response.
A recent study of the use of wet wipes on babies’ skin was published in the journal Pediatrics .
Dr. Mary WuChang, professor of dermatology at Connecticut University of Medicine at Farmintog, co-authored this study. The study looks at the effects this product has on children’s skin.
The study shows what reactions the chemicals in the wet wipes trigger. The appearance of spots is described. These led to dandruff, skin inflammation, blisters and small sores in the mouth of the participating children.
Aside from phenoxyethanol, the study shows that most cosmetic products contain high doses of methylisothiazolinone. This is a preservative that can cause allergic reactions.
Wet wipes cause severe rashes
Six children who took part in the study conducted by the dermatologist had chronic dermatitis of the perianal area and face. This improved neither with the use of antibiotics nor with topical and oral corticosteroids.
One eight-year-old girl even had a large rash on her buttocks and mouth. After several tests, it was found that the severe rash was caused by wet wipes. The girl’s mother stopped using it immediately and the rashes healed immediately.
The chemicals contained in the cosmetic products have worrying negative effects on the child’s health. One example is phenoxyethanol, an organic bactericidal agent. It is commonly found in lotions, creams, perfumes, and other hygiene products used for children.
The use of this product is prohibited in countries like Japan as it may affect the development of children under 3 years of age.
Reading the labels can be helpful.
It is best to carefully look at the labels on the products you use to clean your baby. Try to use products that are free from parabens or phthalates. These are chemical components that are associated with the occurrence of cancer.
Many products also contain polyethylene glycol. This chemical is used as a solvent or emulsifier. Use can adversely affect children’s development and damage their nervous systems.
Due to its high throwing power, polyethylene glycol collects in the heart, brain and kidneys and causes long-term damage.
It is important to be aware of the effects of these products. So you can make sure to choose alternative products when shopping. It is best to look for natural alternatives and use fewer chemicals.
Alternatives to wet wipes
It’s true that wet wipes are very useful. Especially if you’re a mom or dad for the first time and haven’t had the necessary practice to change your troubled baby’s diaper.
To protect your baby’s sensitive skin, use only water and neutral soap. This way you will avoid exposing your baby to the harmful effects of the chemicals contained in the wet wipes.
However, there are also brands that produce natural and environmentally friendly wet wipes. The peculiarity of this type of cosmetic product is that it is biodegradable. As a result, it doesn’t contain chemicals that harm your baby’s skin.
Some parents also like to use a simple towel. This gives you complete control over the products that come into contact with your baby’s skin. In addition, towels, like cloth diapers, are very easy to wash. There are also parents out there who don’t even use soap for the sake of simplicity. They prefer to wash their babies with water only.
