Substances applied to living tissue to kill or inhibit microorganisms【556478891530699†L202-L207】
Explanation
Antiseptics are chemical agents used on the skin and mucous membranes to reduce or eliminate pathogenic microorganisms. Unlike disinfectants, which are applied to inanimate objects and surfaces, antiseptics are formulated to be less damaging so they can be safely used on living tissues【556478891530699†L202-L207】. They are commonly employed in healthcare settings to prepare skin before surgery or catheter insertion, cleanse wounds and burns, or decontaminate hands. Antiseptics act by denaturing proteins, disrupting lipid membranes or oxidizing cellular components, thereby preventing microbial growth or killing microbes outright. Because they contact living tissues, their composition and concentration must balance antimicrobial efficacy with minimal tissue toxicity and irritation. Regular use of antiseptics on intact skin, such as in alcohol-based hand rubs, helps interrupt transmission of pathogens and complements sterile technique. However, overuse or improper use can lead to skin dryness, allergic reactions or delayed wound healing.
Common agents and uses
Alcohols (ethanol and isopropanol at 60–90 %) rapidly denature proteins and are used for hand hygiene and skin preparation before injections. Iodine-based solutions such as povidone‑iodine have broad-spectrum activity and are used for preoperative skin preparation and wound cleansing. Chlorhexidine gluconate binds bacterial cell walls and is favoured for surgical scrubs, central line insertion and dental rinses. Hydrogen peroxide releases reactive oxygen species that oxidize cellular components and is suitable for cleaning minor wounds and mouthwashes. Quaternary ammonium compounds, such as benzalkonium chloride, are used in antiseptic wipes and eye drops. Silver sulfadiazine cream provides sustained antimicrobial action on burn wounds. Choice of antiseptic depends on the site, spectrum of microbes, contact time and patient tolerance. Antiseptics are not effective for sterilizing equipment and should never replace systemic therapy when infection is established.
By reducing microbial contamination on the skin, antiseptics play a vital role in infection control and aseptic technique.
Related Terms: Disinfectants, Aseptic, Sterilization, Antimicrobials, Antibiotics