Chlorhexidine Gluconate for Acne

Chlorhexidine gluconate is an antiseptic used to kill germs in the mouth and throat. It is often used for acne treatment as well, although Drugs.com says this is an "unlabeled" use of this chemical--most traditional doctors do not prescribe it for this purpose. Nevertheless, natural healers such as Wellsphere contend that natural antiseptics can cure acne.

Definitions

• Chlorhexidine gluconate is an antiseptic solution commonly prescribed to treat gum disease and infections of the mouth and throat. It is also used as a skin cleanser prior to performing surgery, both on the patient and the doctor.

  Acne is an inflammatory skin disease characterized by the formation of pimples on the skin. It is most common in teenagers, although adults suffer from acne as well. Acne is a potentially embarrassing disease because many people consider pimples unsightly, particularly on the face.

Prescription

• Chlorhexidine gluconate is a prescription medication. Alternative practitioners may be willing to prescribe it for acne, although it is not meant specifically for this use.

Natural Alternatives

• If your doctor will not prescribe chlorhexidine gluconate for acne, you may be able to use a natural antiseptic for the same purpose. Wellsphere says that ingesting raw garlic, apple cider vinegar or basil can help prevent acne.

How to Use Chlorhexidine Gluconate

• Apply chlorhexidine gluconate to a clean, dry cloth. Rub the cloth on the affected area of your skin. Scrub the skin for about three minutes, moving the cloth briskly back and forth. Dispose of the cloth in the trash and wash your hands, but do not rinse the chemical off of the affected area of skin.

Safety

• Be careful not to get this chemical into your eyes or ears. Permanent blindness or deafness results from contact with these sense organs, according to Drugs.com. If you accidentally get chlorhexidine gluconate in your eyes or ears, flush the area for 15 minutes and see your doctor right away.

  Chlorhexidine gluconate is poisonous. Do not ingest it. Call Poison Control or 911 if you or anyone else swallows it.