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Staph infections can range from minor skin infections, such as boils and impetigo, to more serious conditions like cellulitis, abscesses, and bloodstream infections. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and the formation of pus. Can Hydrogen Peroxide Help?
- Overview
- Can you use it on the skin?
- Does it work for skin care?
- Side effects
- Alternatives
- Summary
Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical agent in many cleaning products. Due to its antibacterial and bleaching properties, some people use it on their skin. However, many health authorities do not consider this safe.
Some people use hydrogen peroxide, or products that contain it, to address skin issues such as acne or hyperpigmentation.
Concentrations of hydrogen peroxide in commercial products vary, depending on their intended use. According to The National Capital Poison Center, some common concentrations include:
•3% — typically the concentration in household cleansers used to kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses
•6–10% — the concentration in some hair dyes and teeth whitening products
•up to 90% — the concentration in industrial products not intended for home use
People use hydrogen peroxide on the skin in many ways, such as to prevent infections in minor wounds, such as scrapes or small cuts.
However, experts no longer recommend using hydrogen peroxide in wound care, as it can irritate or damage the cells responsible for wound healing.
The Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR), for example, note that low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can cause skin irritation and blistering.
They recommend that if the chemical touches the skin, a person should wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
Hydrogen peroxide has disinfecting and bleaching properties, and as a result, some people believe that it can combat infections, reduce blemishes, lighten the skin, and ease symptoms of certain conditions.
As the authors of one 2016 study report, researchers outside the United States have found that using a 1% hydrogen peroxide solution can treat acne as effectively as, and sometimes better than, benzoyl peroxide — a common ingredient in acne medication. The same research indicates that hydrogen peroxide also causes fewer side effects.
Though this may seem promising, people in the U.S. are unlikely to find any solutions with concentrations under 3% in the country.
Instead of trying products containing hydrogen peroxide, people in the U.S. should consult a doctor about the best acne treatment options.
Lean what other research says about using hydrogen peroxide for acne here.
The ATSDR note that exposure to diluted solutions of hydrogen peroxide can cause temporary skin bleaching.
Using hydrogen peroxide on the skin can cause adverse reactions, including:
•redness
•burns
•blisters
•swelling
It can also cause eye damage — and if a person swallows or inhales hydrogen peroxide, the effects can be severe.
A range of products can safely treat acne. If a treatment routine is ineffective, a dermatologist or another doctor can recommend changes.
Some approaches to acne treatment or prevention include:
•using over-the-counter products containing active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
•washing the face twice a day with mild soap
•washing the skin after sweating
•removing makeup
Hydrogen peroxide products can be useful disinfectants. However, applying the chemical to the skin may cause irritation, burns, or other adverse reactions.
It is a good idea to speak with a doctor, such as a dermatologist, about safe and effective ways to treat any skin issues and to handle any hydrogen peroxide products with care.
People also ask
Can hydrogen peroxide be used as a skin disinfectant?
Should a skin abscess be treated with antibiotics?
Can hydrogen peroxide cause blisters?
Apr 7, 2023 · Learn more about how hydrogen peroxide affects your skin, your risks of adding it to your skin care regimen, and some alternatives to try. Hydrogen peroxide is used to disinfect tools,...
- Kristeen Cherney
Apr 27, 2023 · This topic will discuss treatment of skin abscesses, including large furuncles and carbuncles. (Related Pathway(s): Cellulitis and skin abscesses: Empiric antibiotic selection for adults.) Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of skin abscesses, furuncles, and carbuncles are discussed separately.
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