A cross-sectional study of contact allergens in feminine hygiene wipes: a possible cause of vulvar contact dermatitis.

Abstract

The present study aims to investigate the presence and prevalence of potential allergens in the most used feminine hygiene wipes. An internet-based search was performed to identify best-selling name brand and generic feminine hygiene wipes. Each unique wipe was analyzed and compared to the North American Contact Dermatitis Group 80 allergens. We found contact allergens are frequently present in feminine hygiene wipes, most commonly fragrances, other scented botanicals in the form of essences, oils, and fruit juices, and vitamin E (tocopherol). All wipes analyzed in this study contained potential allergens. The inability to eliminate commercial names from analysis could have introduced bias. Vaginal and vulvar epithelia are highly susceptible to contact allergens, often found in products marketed for feminine hygiene and cleanliness. Providers should caution patients against trusting product labeling claims to avoid incidental contact allergy and encourage simply cleansing the vulva with water.