Not all first aid antiseptic functions exactly the same. This is seen in the frightened eyes of any child who sees his parent getting undiluted rubbing alcohol or iodine. Most are highly effective at killing microorganisms, though others are merely semi-effective however assure to be pain-free. The secret in getting a great product is finding one that kills the most harmful micro-organisms without causing more agony.
An antiseptic is used to cleanse the injury of entering microbes. Once the injury has been washed with water or a sterile solution the antiseptic is used. A clean, long lasting bandage is put over the area and every time that the bandage is changed, a prudent parent or nurse will reapply the antiseptic solution.
Alcohol and iodine in their pure forms hurt. In addition to the almost unbearable stinging, iodine can be extremely messy. Because they are both effective killers of a vast array of germs however, it is always a good idea to purchase products that contain these active ingredients, but in which they have been sufficiently diluted.
Hydrogen peroxide is a common, pain-free solution that is applied. The problem with hydrogen peroxide is that it does not always proved effective against numerous strains of bacteria that are normally found in most areas. In this situation it would appear that the classic saying “No pain, no gain” would apply. Furthermore, hydrogen peroxide when continually applied to soft or damaged tissue can have a damning effect that works towards the natural process of healing. When one application is sufficient and exposure is low, it can be a pretty worthwhile solution.
There are various products that are reliable, risk-free and relatively pain-free. Online searching can expose a few of the best rated products available for home use. Self-treating major wounds is never suggested, however for the typical scrapes and dings of life, its always harmless to apply an reliable product to free the area of invading and dangerous organisms.