Personal Health : Baby Wipes May Tap Allergies

A new line of baby wipes, called Pudgies Natural, is thicker than most wipes, alcohol-free and contains only ingredients found in plants and fruits, says a spokeswoman for Nice-Pak Products.

“Check with the (baby’s) doctor before using them,” says Dr. Gerald Klein, a Vista allergist and associate clinical professor at UC Irvine and UC San Diego.

That’s especially wise, he says, if the infant has a history of contact dermatitis or allergies. Even though the wipes are marketed as hypoallergenic, plant-based products can potentially aggravate allergies, Klein says.

The new wipes are available at Wal-Mart stores and, beginning in September, Drug Emporium.