Chlorhexidine gluconate is a powerful antiseptic used to clean and prepare skin before medical procedures such as injections and surgeries. It’s also available by prescription as an oral rinse for dental conditions like gingivitis, dry socket, and periodontal disease.

This agent helps kill bacteria and prevent infections. However, it must be used only as directed by a healthcare provider, as misuse can cause adverse reactions.

Uses And Benefits

Chlorhexidine is an over-the-counter (OTC) antiseptic commonly found in first aid kits and hospitals. It’s used to clean skin before surgery, injections, or minor wound treatment. It destroys the protective layer of bacterial cells, preventing infection.

It’s also prescribed in dentistry as an oral rinse to:

  • Manage dental plaque

  • Reduce gingivitis and dry socket symptoms

  • Treat periodontal disease (in chip form inserted between teeth and gums)

Beyond skin and oral use, chlorhexidine is sometimes found in medical devices like IV lines to reduce infection risk.

How To Use

Use chlorhexidine exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider. Overuse or prolonged use can lead to irritation or allergic reactions.

To clean a wound:

  1. Rinse the area gently with water.

  2. Apply a small amount of chlorhexidine using a cotton pad.

  3. Wash the area with gentle circular motions.

  4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

For injection site preparation, apply a small amount to a cotton pad and wipe the area before administering the injection.

In medical settings, professionals use chlorhexidine to sterilize skin or scrub hands before surgery. Typically, about 5 mL of product is applied, scrubbed for 3 minutes, rinsed, and repeated once.

Not Intended For Infants

Avoid using chlorhexidine on premature infants or children under 2 months old unless directed by a doctor. Studies show possible skin irritation or chemical burns in infants.

Safety And Side Effects

While effective, chlorhexidine can cause serious allergic reactions. In 2017, the FDA warned about cases of anaphylaxis linked to chlorhexidine exposure.

Signs of an allergic reaction may include:

  • Wheezing or shortness of breath

  • Facial swelling or hives

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Dizziness or weakness

Without prompt treatment, this can progress to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening emergency.

Chlorhexidine Cleanser

Although sold OTC, chlorhexidine cleanser is very strong. It may cause burns or irritation on sensitive skin or delicate areas.

Precautions:

  • Avoid contact with eyes, ears, and mouth — it can cause permanent eye injury or hearing loss if it reaches the middle ear.

  • Rinse immediately with cold water if accidental exposure occurs.

  • Do not use on large or deep wounds, the face, or the genital area.

  • Avoid repeated cleansing of large skin areas without medical advice.

Chlorhexidine Oral Rinse

Prescription oral rinses containing chlorhexidine must be used carefully, as they carry several side effects:

Common side effects:

  • Dry mouth (xerostomia)

  • Altered taste (especially salty or bitter foods)

  • Discoloration or coating of the tongue

Less common side effects:

  • Oral burning or tingling

  • Swelling of salivary glands

  • Peeling of the inner mouth lining

  • Tooth staining (especially after long-term use)

If any severe irritation occurs, stop using the rinse and contact your dentist or doctor.

Choosing A Chlorhexidine Product

Chlorhexidine was first developed in the UK in the 1950s and introduced in the U.S. in the 1970s.

Because it’s such a potent antiseptic, it’s best used under medical supervision. Your provider can recommend the appropriate concentration and product type — whether for skin cleansing or oral care.

OTC solutions vary in chlorhexidine percentage, typically between 0.5% and 4%. A higher concentration offers stronger antibacterial action but may increase the risk of irritation.

Always follow medical advice to ensure safety and effectiveness.