Colors in Disposable Diapers

Abstract

Colors are frequently added to disposable diapers to enhance the diapering experience. The colors in the interior of diapers are composed of nonsensitizing pigments that are bound during the fiber-making process into the fibers of the nonwoven that covers the absorbent core materials. In the past, the use of color in diapers has been called into question based on the presumed use of disperse dyes, known sensitizers in the textile industry, and erroneous reports in literature. In fact, disperse dyes are not used in leading disposable diapers; the colors used in these disposable diapers are nonsensitizing pigments with favorable safety profiles. Numerous safety tests, such as skin patch tests with pigments used on diaper backsheets, have found no evidence of skin irritation or sensitization.

Potential Allergens in Disposable Diaper Wipes, Topical Diaper Preparations, and Disposable Diapers

“…5 Although disperse dyes have been reported as potential allergens in diapers, 9 recent publications suggest that leading disposable diapers do not use disperse dyes and instead use nonsensitizing pigments, which reportedly are less sensitizing. 82 Compared with disperse dyes, pigments are larger particles with lower potential for skin penetration. 82 It is unknown what types of dyes are used by nonleading diaper manufacturers.…”

“…82 Compared with disperse dyes, pigments are larger particles with lower potential for skin penetration. 82 It is unknown what types of dyes are used by nonleading diaper manufacturers. None of the 3 leading diapers analyzed contained dyes.…”

Common Diaper Ingredient Questions: Modern Disposable Diaper Materials Are Safe and Extensively Tested

“…They can be found in textiles, toys, crayons, cosmetics, food packaging, and some medical applications. Pigment colors have been deemed systemically safe, 14 and even if a small amount transfers to the skin, it can be easily washed off. 10 Lotions, Ointments, and Other Skin Conditioning Agents.…”

Modern diaper performance: construction, materials, and safety review

“…In addition, local skin effects for irritation and/or sensitization of colorants used in disposable diapers have been tested via self‐assessed sensitive adult skin patch testing (number of subjects in various studies ranged from 19 to 122) and show no skin irritation or sensitization concerns. Overall, the colorants are deemed safe for use in diapers (Table ).…”