As dermatology providers, we often see certain trends on social media channels regarding acne treatment. Acne is a common and sometimes frustrating condition to manage. One can certainly appreciate the lengths people may go to for treatment. One trend that we have seen is the use of an antiseptic cleanser called chlorhexidine used to treat inflammatory acne on the face. But is this recommended? Is this safe? Let’s dive deeper into this topic in this month’s blog post.
What is Chlorhexidine?
Chlorhexidine 4% solution, also known as Hibiclens and Betasept, is an antiseptic cleanser that is readily available over the counter. This product can retail for thirteen to twenty dollars on average and can be obtained without a prescription. Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic cleanser that is traditionally used as a surgical preparation and sometimes for wound cleansing because it is bactericidal, meaning that it kills bacteria on the skin.
Patients undergoing surgery may be instructed to wash their bodies with this product prior to their procedures to reduce the risk of infection during their surgery. Surgeons may use chlorhexidine to wash their hands in preparation to perform their operations because this product is a very effective agent to kill bacteria on contact.
Should You Use It to Treat Acne On The Face?
The short answer here is no. It is not recommended to use this product on your face to treat acne. While it is easy to understand the reason why someone would want to use this product to treat facial acne to reduce inflammatory acne lesions, this product can potentially be dangerous when used in this area.
Chlorhexidine specifically states on its packaging that it should be avoided on the head and face. Here are some of the reasons why:
- It is toxic to the cornea of the eye. If exposed, this product can cause tearing, pain, corneal ulcerations and the loss of corneal tissue, leading to eye and vision problems.
- If the middle ear is somehow exposed to it, chlorhexidine can cause damage to the middle ear and even deafness.
- Chlorhexidine is very drying to the skin, potentially causing itching, redness, burning, swelling, peeling, and a possible rash.
- Less commonly, chlorhexidine can cause a hypersensitivity reaction or anaphylaxis.
At the very least, the most common reaction that is seen with the use of this product is local irritation and dryness of the skin, not something that we want to experience on our face.
Acne Has Many Treatment Options
Social media seems to have a tremendous impact on skincare and treatment recommendations not only for acne, but everything else.
Acne is very treatable, and the care plan should be customized to the patient and his or her particular skincare needs with safe, effective, and proven methods. It is easier now more than ever to find a dermatology provider experienced in the treatment of acne virtually who is affordable and convenient.
Can The Derm NP Help with Acne?
The short answer is – yes! We offer treatments for acne. The Derm NP is staffed by a dermatology certified nurse practitioner with over eighteen years of experience and ready to help you attain clearer skin using prescription medications custom chosen for your unique skincare needs. Contact us at (630) 233-9767 or thedermnp@thedermnp.com for an appointment to help you clear up resistant acne or other skin conditions and become the best you possible.
