There is a lot of controversy surrounding the ingredients used to make baby wipes. I found studies that were in favor of and against the use of some of the chemicals found in wipes. Here are some information that helped me decide I would never use wipes. Wipes are made of fibers, usually cotton and rayon, as well as plastic resins. Baby wipes contain detergents with moisturizing agents, fragrance and preservatives.
Parabens are a preservative found in wipes. They are absorbed into the skin and are also found in many personal care products. Parabens mimic estrogen and increased levels of estrogen can cause breast cancer. It is a fact that parabens are found in breast tumors. Also, testing on newborn male mammals has shown a certain type of paraben (butylparaben) to create problems to their reproductive systems. Some experts say the parabens found in lotions and makeup can potentially effect the female reproductive system.
Propylene glycol, also found in baby wipes and personal care products, is used in brake fluid and antifreeze. The Material Safety Data sheet warns users avoid skin contact as it is a strong skin irritant and can cause health effects such as kidney and liver damage. Even though the amount found in baby wipes is considered safe by the manufacturers, I wouldn't feel right taking that risk with my child.
Baby lotions, shampoos and powders can also contain these chemicals. For example, here is a list of ingredients in a popular baby lotion known for its smell: water, propylene glycol, myristyl myrisate, glyceryl monosterarate, oleic acid, stearic acid, polysorbate, alkyl benzoate, benzyl alcohol, carbomer, fragerance, methylparaben, butlyparaben, sodium hydroxide, red #33. Baby powder's main ingredient is talc, which in a 1993 National Toxicology Program report, causes tumors in animals. Talc has fibers very similar to asbestos. The Cancer Prevention Coalition has called talc a carcinogen, and says it causes tumors in human ovaries and lungs. Studies in the 1980's have shown baby powder when inhaled by infants, to cause death or serious illness. Apparently the FDA had proposed limiting the amount of asbestos-like fibers found in talc used in cosmetics. The ruling never passed.
While many of these issues are still being researched, I feel it is better to err on the safe side. Products now exist that cut out dangerous chemicals from baby wipes and lotions. Websites such as www.safemama.com can give you information and recommendations about baby products to help you make good decisions for your baby.
