Why Antiseptic Spray Testing is Important in Using Sprays to Prevent Wound Infections
In daily life, humans are never completely free from the risk of experiencing wounds. Small injuries are often overlooked and left uncleansed. However, wounds that are not promptly cleaned can serve as an entry point for bacteria, viruses, or fungi that may trigger infections. Therefore, proper cleaning and initial wound care with antiseptics are necessary to prevent unwanted complications.
What Is an Antiseptic?
The term “antiseptic” originates from the Greek words anti and sepsis. Anti means “against,” and sepsis means “decay” or “putrefaction.” More broadly, antiseptics are chemical substances applied to the skin or other living tissues to inhibit the growth of microorganisms. In general, antiseptics differ from disinfectants. Disinfectants are chemical compounds formulated to disinfect rooms, objects, or natural environmental components (such as water flow or soil).
Simply put, disinfectants are used on inanimate surfaces, whereas antiseptics are applied to body surfaces—primarily the skin, mucous membranes, and surface wounds. Antiseptics are generally used for both preventive and therapeutic purposes. In medical practice, they are widely used in hospitals and healthcare facilities to control the risk of infection.
In addition, antiseptics are also frequently used to treat open wounds and, in some cases, to manage skin infections. As public needs evolve, antiseptics are now available in various forms, one of which is spray. Antiseptic spray is more practical, hygienic, and easy to apply because it does not require direct contact with the wound.
It serves as a modern alternative to liquid or ointment antiseptics, which are more commonly used. Common active ingredients found in antiseptic sprays include alcohol (ethanol or isopropyl alcohol), chlorhexidine, povidone-iodine, benzalkonium chloride, and chloroxylenol. These active agents are responsible for killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on living tissues. Other components, such as propellants, water, and fragrances, function as carriers or to add additional beneficial properties.
When Should Antiseptic Spray Be Used?
Antiseptic spray can be used in a variety of everyday situations as well as in medical settings. It is often used to clean hands, especially when soap and water are not available; to sterilize the skin before medical procedures; to reduce the risk of disease transmission, particularly during pandemics; and for the treatment of minor wounds. For minor injuries such as cuts and abrasions, antiseptic spray is applied immediately after rinsing the wound with running water. In addition, antiseptic spray should be reapplied before covering the wound with a bandage and every time the bandage is replaced.
Although antiseptic spray is considered practical and generally well-tolerated, potential side effects must still be carefully considered to avoid complications. For instance, long-term use of chlorhexidine can cause contact dermatitis; povidone-iodine may stain the skin, hair, and clothing; isopropyl alcohol can cause dermatitis contact too and highly flammable; benzalkonium chloride can cause ocular toxicity and allergic contact dermatitis; and prolonged use of chloroxylenol may result in allergic reactions and skin irritation.
Antiseptic spray is a practical innovation for maintaining hygiene and preventing infections on wounds and skin. With its ease of use, this product is highly beneficial for both daily life and medical needs. However, it should be used wisely and appropriately to avoid any undesirable effects.
For antiseptic manufacturers, ensuring that each active ingredient works effectively and safely is not only part of meeting standards, but also a commitment to protecting consumers. Each formulation must be scientifically proven to prevent irritation, allergies, or other unwanted risks. This is where laboratory testing is crucial to ensure antiseptic products are truly safe before they are marketed.
A good antiseptic spray must undergo a series of clear and measurable tests. IML Research provides safety testing, active ingredient content testing, and microbiological testing to ensure your product meets quality standards and is reliably safe. Ensure your antiseptic spray has been properly tested by a competent laboratory like IML Research.
Author: Safira
Editor: Sabilla Reza
References:
Babalska, Z. Ł., Korbecka-Paczkowska, M., & Karpiński, T. M. (2021). Wound Antiseptics and European Guidelines for Antiseptic Application in Wound Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 14(12), 1253. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph14121253
Bednarek RS, Nassereddin A, Ramsey ML. Skin Antiseptics. (2023). In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507853/
