Antiszepsis

Antiszepsis, also known as antisepsis, refers to the prevention or reduction of infection by applying chemical agents to living tissue in order to inhibit or kill microorganisms. It is distinct from asepsis, which aims to keep a sterile field or environment free of microbes. Antisepsis focuses on the living surfaces of the body, such as skin and mucous membranes, to lower the risk of infection during medical procedures and routine care.

Antiseptics are chemical substances used on living tissues to reduce microbial load. Common agents include alcohols (ethanol, isopropanol), povidone‑iodine, chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide, and certain phenols or quaternary ammonium compounds. They vary in spectrum of activity, speed of action, residual effect, and tissue tolerance. For example, alcohols act rapidly and broadly but lack persistent activity; iodine compounds are broad‑spectrum but may cause irritation; chlorhexidine is widely used for its rapid action and residual effects, though allergies and resistance considerations exist. The effectiveness of antiseptics can be influenced by concentration, contact time, and the presence of organic matter.

Safety considerations are important: antiseptics can cause skin irritation, dermatitis, or chemical burns and may be dangerous if ingested or misused. Some agents are contraindicated on certain tissues or mucous membranes, and alcohol-based products are flammable. While antiseptics reduce microbial load, they do not sterilize; they complement, but do not replace, sterile technique and proper asepsis in clinical settings.

Applications of antiszepsis include preoperative skin preparation, wound care, injections and catheter insertions, and hand hygiene in healthcare, as well as consumer products used for personal disinfection.