Disinfectant, Antiseptic and Medicated soaps are the best germ-killing and prevention agents that helps keep bacteria away. Many Nigerians use the terms interchangeably but they are actually different. Let’s try to examine the difference between them

An antiseptic is applied to the body, while disinfectants are applied to nonliving surfaces, such as countertops and handrails. In a surgical setting, for example, a doctor will apply an antiseptic to the surgical site on a person’s body and use a disinfectant to sterilize the operating table.

Both antiseptics and disinfectants contain chemical agents that are sometimes called biocides. Hydrogen peroxide is an example of a common ingredient in both antiseptics and disinfectants. However, antiseptics usually contain lower concentrations of biocides than disinfectants do.

How are Antiseptics Used?

Antiseptics have a variety of uses both in and out of medical settings. In both settings, they’re applied to either the skin or mucous membranes.

Specific antiseptic uses include:

• Hand washing. Medical professionals use antiseptics for hand scrubs and rubs in hospitals.
• Disinfecting mucous membranes. Antiseptics can be applied to the urethra, bladder, or vagina to clean the area before inserting a catheter. They can also help to treat an infection in these areas.
• Cleaning skin before an operation. Antiseptics are applied to the skin before any kind of surgery to protect against any harmful microorganisms that might be on the skin.
• Treating skin infections. You can buy OTC antiseptics to reduce the risk of infection in minor cuts, burns, and wounds. Examples include hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol.
• Treating throat and mouth infections. Some throat lozenges contain antiseptics to help with sore throats due to a bacterial infection.