Hydrogen peroxide is a common household product found in medicine cabinets, first aid kits and laundry rooms around the world. But what is this chemical actually used for? And are there times you should avoid using it? Here is a comprehensive guide on how and when to utilize hydrogen peroxide.
What is Hydrogen Peroxide?
Chemically speaking, hydrogen peroxide is a solution made up of water and oxygen molecules (H2O2). It has strong oxidizing properties, which gives it antibacterial, antiseptic and bleaching functions. The oxygen bubbles you see when you pour it on a cut are released as the chemical interacts with blood and skin tissues.
Hydrogen peroxide is available in different concentrations, but the most common is a 3% solution sold in brown bottles for home use. More concentrated solutions up to 90% hydrogen peroxide can be created, but these require careful handling as they can be highly reactive and corrosive.
Wound Care and Disinfecting
Here are some of the most common and effective uses for ordinary 3% hydrogen peroxide when used properly:
- Disinfecting minor cuts, scrapes, burns – The fizzing action helps remove debris and kill microbes. Rinse cleaned wound afterwards.
- Oral hygiene – Used as a mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide can reduce bacteria buildup that causes plaque and gingivitis. It can also whiten teeth with regular use.
- Ear wax removal – A few drops of hydrogen peroxide in the ear can help break up wax buildup when left to bubble for a few minutes. Tilt head to drain.
- Sanitizing surfaces – It makes a great non-toxic cleaner for kitchen and bathroom surfaces and countertops.
- Hand sanitizer – When soap and water aren’t available, hydrogen peroxide can be used to sanitize hands and avoid spreading germs.
- Toothbrush cleaning – Soak toothbrushes in diluted peroxide to sanitize them and kill germs that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
While hydrogen peroxide has clear benefits for cleaning and preventing infection, there are also some cautions about where you should NOT use this chemical…
What to Avoid Doing with Hydrogen Peroxide
Here are some important safety guidelines when using hydrogen peroxide:
- Never ingest peroxide – Swallowing any concentration is dangerous and can cause internal burning or oxygen embolisms. Some alternative health practitioners promote drinking diluted hydrogen peroxide, but this practice is highly risky.
- Keep away from eyes and ears – Hydrogen peroxide can damage the eardrum and sensitive eye tissues. Avoid using as ear drops and rinse immediately if splashed in eyes.
- Don’t use on new piercings or tattoos – The bubbling action can draw out ink and irritate healing puncture wounds, leading to infections in new tattoos or piercings.
- Avoid applying to sensitive tissues – Genital areas and other absorptive soft tissues can be irritated by hydrogen peroxide. The chemical reaction can also impede the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
- Beware internal contact – While generally benign on intact skin, hydrogen peroxide causes burns and chemical injuries when ingested or administered incorrectly into the veins, colon, or other internal areas. Strict precautions are needed for internal bodily use.
- Avoid with certain medical conditions – People with blood clotting disorders or who take blood thinners should not use hydrogen peroxide, as it can inhibit clotting.
Other Precautions When Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide breaks down over time and with exposure to light. Old or improperly stored bottles may not retain their potency. Always check the expiration date and store in a cool, dark place. Never mix peroxide with vinegar or other acids, as this causes a dangerous chemical reaction.
Conclusion: A Helpful but Potentially Harmful Chemical
When used judiciously on intact skin and for cleaning, hydrogen peroxide can be a helpful staple item in your medicine cabinet and cleaning caddy. But always exercise caution, follow dilution guidelines, and avoid applying it to eyes, ears, sensitive tissues and wounds. Internal use requires extreme care and oversight by health professionals. Be informed about proper usage of this helpful but potentially hazardous chemical.
