Among the disinfectants people reach for quickly during the summer or when they get a wound, there are products in the 'chlorhexidine' category. Sungkwang Hexiclean Solution is a topical antiseptic with chlorhexidine gluconate as its main ingredient, and its range of applications is wider than you might think, ranging from hand washing to wound disinfection.
If you simply think of it as a 'disinfectant,' it may be difficult to see its proper effects. This is because its role varies depending on the concentration, and the dilution method also differs according to its intended use. Today, we looked at how to properly understand Sungkwang Hexiclean Solution and how to use it safely.
What is chlorhexidine that it is used so often?
The key to Sungkwang Hexiclin Solution is Chlorhexidine gluconateThis ingredient is effective against a wide variety of microorganisms, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, facultative anaerobic bacteria, aerobic bacteria, and even yeast.
It has a unique feature compared to other disinfectants. While povidone iodine's primary action is its iodine component and hydrogen peroxide eliminates bacteria through oxidation, chlorhexidine acts by attaching directly to the bacterial cell walls. For this reason, it is known to be less irritating to the skin while providing quite long-lasting effects.
There is another common misconception: it doesn't mean that higher concentrations are always better. The bacteriostatic effect (inhibition of bacterial growth) and bactericidal effect (killing of bacteria) vary depending on the concentration.This point is important.
From hand washing to wound disinfection, dilution methods by use
Sungkwang Hexiclean Solution is not meant to be used in just one way. You must dilute it with water or ethanol according to the situation to achieve the proper effect.
For hand disinfection, typically 5mL is dispensed and rubbed for about 15 seconds; the standard for this is an aqueous solution with a concentration of 0.1–0.51 TP3T or a 0.51 TP3T ethanol solution. If more thorough disinfection is required, such as before surgery, repeat the process twice for 3 minutes each time.
You need to be a little more careful when using it directly on a wound. Disinfect the wound site with an aqueous solution diluted to approximately 0.051 TP³T.Because you have to use it. If you use it at too high a concentration, it can irritate damaged tissue.
Medical devices can be disinfected by soaking or wiping them in a 0.1–0.51 TP3T aqueous solution or a 0.51 TP3T ethanol solution, and to clean dentures, you can also wash them by soaking them in the solution for 15 minutes twice a day.
The role definitely differs depending on the concentration.
Chlorhexidine products are available in various concentrations, such as 0.12%, 2%, 4%, 5%, and 20%, each with distinctly different uses. It is advisable to check the intended purpose of the products you see at the pharmacy before making a choice.
| density | Main use | How to use | efficacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.12% | oral hygiene | Dilute the undiluted solution with water 80 to 100 times, then gargle | Relief of gingivitis, stomatitis, and pharyngitis |
| 2%~4% | Hand and skin disinfection | Use after diluting with an aqueous solution of 0.1~0.51 TP3T. | Antibacterial and bactericidal action |
| 5%~20% | Concentrates and high-concentration uses | Further dilution for specific purposes | Strong sterilization effect |
The key is to check the concentration of Sungkwang Hexiclean Solution on the product label and dilute it accordingly.
There are uses that must be avoided.
Just because it is a disinfectant doesn't mean it can be used anywhere. High-concentration chlorhexidine products (5%, 20%) must not come into contact with nerve tissue.That is very important.
It is known that using disinfectants on the brain, spinal cord, or the inner, middle, and outer ears can damage the auditory nerves or central nervous system, potentially leading to hearing loss or neurological disorders. While there is rarely a need to use disinfectants on these areas in daily life, they must be strictly avoided in medical settings.
It also cannot be used in ophthalmic devices that combine glass and metal. This is because chlorhexidine can corrode the glass-metal joints. The same applies to the formation of insoluble salts when reacting with the components of the dialysis fluid during catheter dialysis. When using such devices, they must be thoroughly rinsed with sterile water before use.
Please also check the storage and expiration dates.
The effectiveness of a disinfectant is determined by the storage method. Sungkwang Hexiclin Solution must be stored in a cool place below 25°C and used within 24 months from the date of manufacture.
Since the concentration can change if left for a long time after opening, it is best to use the product within 3 months if possible. In particular, solutions diluted with water can spoil more quickly, so it is safer to make a fresh batch each time.
In short, Sungkwang Hexiclean Solution is a disinfectant that can be used for a wide range of purposes, from hand washing to wound disinfection, when properly diluted according to the intended use. As long as you check the concentration, dilution ratio, and observe contraindications, you can use it effectively and safely.