Sometimes, people get confused with three different types of products: antiseptics, antibacterial agents, and disinfectants. They are useful in keeping the environment clean and free from bacteria and germs. Fossil Remedies deals with these three categories and offers world-class products.
But do you think these three things are similar? No, their aim is similar, but they are not the same.
Let’s understand them in a detailed manner.
Antiseptic
What are Antiseptics?
Antiseptics are chemical agents used on living tissues to prevent infection. Usually, antiseptics are applied to the skin or mucous membranes to reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Some commonly used antiseptics are:
- Hydrogen Peroxide: It is used for cleaning wounds and cuts.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizers: They are used for washing hands so that the germs on the skin can be effectively killed.
- Iodine and Betadine: They are used by medical professionals to clean wounds and prepare the skin before surgical procedures.
What is the working mechanism of antiseptics? Antiseptics destroy or limit the growth of harmful microorganisms without causing any damage to the skin or mucous membranes. They normally target a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Therefore, they are useful in preventing infections.
Antiseptics can clean minor wounds, burns, or cuts. They can disinfect the skin before surgery. Sanitizing hands with any of the best antiseptic products reduces the growth and spread of infections.
Antibacterial
What are Antibacterials?
They are specially designed to target and kill bacteria. Not only that, but they also stop or limit the growth of bacteria. How are they different than antiseptics then? Antiseptics act on a variety of microorganisms, whereas Antibacterials are effective mainly against bacteria.
Examples of antibacterial products are the whole range of antibacterial soaps and wipes, bacteria-resistant creams, or prescription antibiotics that can be applied topically or taken orally.
How do antibacterials work? Antibacterials target specific mechanisms within the cells of bacteria, like cell walls or protein synthesis. Thus, they either kill the bacteria or stop their reproduction cycle.
They can prevent bacterial infections in minor cuts or wounds. They also treat skin conditions caused by bacterial growth, e.g., acne.
What is better, antibacterial vs antiseptic? It depends on your preference.
Disinfectant
What are Disinfectants?
Disinfectants are chemicals that can kill or deactivate microorganisms, e.g., bacteria, viruses, and fungi, on inanimate surfaces.
How are they different from antiseptics and antibacterials? These two are intended for use on living tissues. Disinfectants, on the other hand, are used on surfaces like countertops, floors, and medical equipment.
Some commonly used disinfectants are:
- Sodium hypochlorite or Bleach
- Alcohol-based surface cleaners
- Hydrogen peroxide-based surface cleaners
How do disinfectants work? They destroy microorganisms through chemical reactions. The cell walls of bacteria, fungi, or virus are broken down. Thus, they get destroyed because of the disruption caused in their vital functions.
Conclusion
It is vital to know the differences between antiseptics, antibacterial agents and disinfectants. They may look the same, but their work is different. Once you know them well, you can make proper use of them.
