Antiseptic Pastes: Types, Uses & Safety Guide

Common Active Ingredients

• Chlorhexidine gluconate (0.5–4%): Broad-spectrum, residual activity, gold standard pre-op
• Povidone-iodine (10%): Broad, rapid, inactivated by organic matter
• Silver (nanocrystalline, sulfadiazine): Broad, biofilm penetration, burn care
• Hydrogen peroxide (1–3%): Oxidizing, mechanical debridement, fibroblast toxicity at high conc.
• Benzalkonium chloride: Quaternary ammonium, less broad, cationic
• Mupirocin / Fusidic acid: Topical antibiotics (not broad antiseptics)

Indications

• Minor cuts, abrasions, burns
• Peri-procedural skin prep
• Superficial skin infections (impetigo, folliculitis)
• Acne (benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin preferred over antiseptics)
• Diaper dermatitis (barrier + low-potency antiseptic)

Safety

• Contact dermatitis (chlorhexidine, iodine)
• Systemic absorption (neonates, large BSA, iodine → thyroid)
• Ototoxicity (chlorhexidine, aminoglycosides) — avoid middle ear
• Ocular toxicity — avoid eyes
• Resistance: low for antiseptics; higher for topical antibiotics