Guide To The Healthy Uses Of Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common chemical compound. It is made of a combination of water and hydrogen. When individuals purchase hydrogen peroxide, it tends to be available in several different potencies. For use in households, a three percent dilution is typical. The potency for hair bleaching is usually from six to ten percent. Food-grade hydrogen peroxide comes at a thirty-five percent potency. If it is being used in industrial areas, the potency is ninety percent. 

Many individuals will benefit from using hydrogen peroxide products. Of course, most of them will be a hydrogen peroxide liquid. Patients can use a hydrogen peroxide mouth wash to help whiten their teeth. Hydrogen peroxide is effective as a canker sore treatment and a way to obtain toothache pain relief. There are many more uses for hydrogen peroxide. Overall, it is effective as long as individuals follow the proper directions. 

Mild Topical Antiseptic

Hydrogen peroxide often acts as a mild topical antiseptic. It can be applied to the skin to prevent minor burns, scrapes, and cuts from becoming infected. Individuals should only use hydrogen peroxide on mild abrasions. They should never use it to disinfect deep wounds. In addition, they should not use hydrogen peroxide on severe burns or animal bites. If individuals apply hydrogen peroxide to their skin, it should only be in small areas. The usual recommended treatment is to apply the solution to the wound one to three times each day until it heals. However, doctors may provide a different recommendation for some patients. Should that be the case, patients should always follow their doctor's advice. 

If patients put a bandage over the scrape or abrasion after treating it, they should let the area dry out naturally first. Patients need to contact their doctor if their wound does not improve within seven days, or the antiseptic appears to make their condition worse. Some common side effects of using hydrogen peroxide as a topical antiseptic include irritation, stinging, and redness around the application site. Serious side effects are rare.