WOUND CARE
FEMININE CARE
THROAT & NOSE CARE
SKIN CARE
FEMININE CARE
9 Q&AsIdentify the cause – suspect infection by looking out for vaginal symptoms such as discharge with abnormal colour or amount.
Check for foreign objects like tampons or condoms after intimate sessions.
Wear cotton undergarments to encourage airflow and allow your vaginal area to breathe.103-106
Don’t:
Use fragrant body washes and soaps as it can disrupt the pH balance of your vagina.103-106
Bacterial infections are the most common cause, accounting for up to 50% of the cases. 102 They happen when there are changes in the types and amounts of bacteria normally found in the vagina.
Fungal infections like candida albicans are probably the next most common cause. Fungal infections are often called vaginal yeast infections.
Other possible causes of vaginal irritation include:
Tight nylon underwear that doesn’t provide good ventilation, resulting in perspiration and lack of air circulation103-106
The use of contraceptives103-106
The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of other infections103-106
The use of vaginal deodorants103-106
The lack of personal hygiene103-10
Pregnant and lactating mothers are encouraged to avoid using the POVIDONE-IODINE BETADINE® Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche due to the potential risks to the fetus/baby. There is a possible chance that the fetus/baby may be at risk of reversible hypothyroidism. Even though hypothyroidism is reversible, it might still lead to future metabolism conditions.59,107
Women who suffer from hypothyroidism should also avoid using the
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche.59,107
Povidone-iodine, which is the active ingredient in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche, is naturally golden brown in colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair.59,107
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche products can also be washed off even if they get into contact with your clothes. If you accidentally get some on natural fibers, it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, it can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.59,107
CAUTION: Immediately wipe up spills on plastic floors.
SKIN CARE
0 Q&AsNo questions are available for this category yet.
THROAT & NOSE CARE
14 Q&AsThese viruses and bacteria can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touch an object that has the virus on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs or sneezes) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing) 43.
A sore throat can be caused by different types of germs. Therefore, it is good to use a preparation that target different types and classes of germs88.
Viruses are tiny particles that rely on human or animal cells for their survival, so they cannot last very long outside the body27. They cause illnesses by invading healthy cells and multiplying.
Bacteria are single cell organisms usually found in and on our bodies27. Some bacteria are harmless – and can even be good for us – and some cause infections27.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle has scientific research on its germ killing activity against germs that can cause sore throats1-3. With a 30-second gargle, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle kill germs2. Individual response varies*.
For the same reasons, other viral infections like flu should not be treated with antibiotics either6.
If a sore throat persists or is particularly severe, you should see your doctor.
Antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor in situations of bacteria related infections*.
* For further information, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle kills germs that cause sore throats1,2.Research has also shown that the povidone-iodine (PVPI) in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle has a 30 seconds killing effect against germs through 30 sec gargling34. Individual response varies.
Since most sore throats are caused by germs5, there are steps that you can take to prevent getting an infection:
- Avoid sharing utensils with people who are sick.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap.
- Practice proper hand and throat hygiene by using an antiseptic hand wash and gargle, such as POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle to kill germs and prevent passing on germs within the family or community2.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands as germs can enter your body this way and make you sick.
- Stay away from people who are ill, as germs can spread.88
No, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle does not stain the teeth. The natural brown colour is due to Povidone-Iodine, the active ingredient of POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle. The product retains the germ killing effect of iodine but unlike iodine, it is generally non-staining3.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) preparations do not stain the skin, fingernails, hair, or natural fibre either.3 If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Small amount may be swallowed during gargling. If accidentally swallowed in large amounts, consult your local doctor or pharmacist immediately.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle contains povidone-iodine that kills the germs that cause sore throats1-3, in a 30-second gargle. However, it is impossible to say how quickly you will feel better. Individual response condition varies*.
Some cosmetic mouthwashes are meant for fresh breath while POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle is a medicated formulation for treatment against throat and oral infection10.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not use unless advised by healthcare professional.
Germs that cause sore throats can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touching something that has the germs on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).43,88
When a loved one suffers from sore throat, flu or a cold, practicing proper throat and oral hygiene like gargling with POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) helps. This lessens the chances of other family members getting it too by killing the germs before they have a chance to act.
The active ingredient in BETADINE®, povidone-iodine, is naturally a golden brown colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you can see where it’s been applied on the skin3.
If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
WOUND CARE
8 Q&AsAntiseptics are used as a treatment to cleanse cuts, scratches, burns, grazes or other minor injuries where the skin is broken, or as a preventive measure before piercing the skin (e.g. an injection). For this very reason, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) has a wide range of antiseptic formats for your different needs.
If you accidentally get Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) on natural fibers it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) Wound Care is an antiseptic, not an antibiotic. Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) Wound Care range contains povidone-iodine that acts on germs that may cause wound infection14. These germs get killed before it has an opportunity to infect the wound. When you use it, you will know it always helps.
Additionally, the use of tap water to cleanse the wound would not be recommended in a country where a constant supply of potable drinking water is not available.32
Povidone-Iodine vs. Other Antiseptics in the Philippines: Which is Best for Wounds?
Key Takeaways
There is no single antiseptic that is best for every wound. The appropriate choice depends on the type of wound, formulation and concentration, and intended use.
Alcohol has broad antimicrobial activity but may cause stinging, dryness, or skin irritation when applied to wounds.
Chlorhexidine has persistent antiseptic activity on the skin and strong antibacterial properties but its activity varies against different microorganisms.
Hydrogen peroxide has oxidizing antimicrobial activity and produces a characteristic bubbling action but higher concentrations may damage healthy tissue.
Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores (based on in-vitro data) but temporarily leaves a golden-brown color on the skin.10,11,12
Minor cuts, scrapes, and other wounds are common. Proper wound care starts with cleaning the affected area and removing dirt or debris. An antiseptic may also be used when appropriate for the wound and according to the product's directions.1
For Filipino families preparing a home first-aid kit, choosing an antiseptic can be confusing. Alcohol, chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, and povidone-iodine are commonly encountered options, but they differ in antimicrobial activity, mechanism of action, and considerations for use.
So, which antiseptic is best for wounds? There is no universal answer. Understanding how these antiseptics differ can help you make a more informed choice.
How Do Common Wound Antiseptics Work?
Alcohol
Alcohol-based antiseptics have broad antimicrobial activity* and are widely available. Common types include isopropyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol.2,3
Alcohol works primarily by denaturing proteins and disrupting microbial cell structures.3 However, alcohol may sting when applied to wounds and can cause dryness or skin irritation.3-4,13
Its activity also varies against certain microorganisms, including some non-enveloped viruses and bacterial spores.3* Because alcohol products differ in concentration and intended use, always follow the directions on the specific product label.
Chlorhexidine
Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic known for persistent activity on the skin and strong antibacterial properties.5-7*
It interacts with microbial cell walls and membranes, disrupting their integrity and causing cellular contents to leak out.6 Its ability to remain on the skin after application contributes to its persistent antimicrobial activity.6,7
However, chlorhexidine has limitations against certain microorganisms, including some bacteria, viruses, fungi, and bacterial spores.6,7* Its appropriate use depends on the specific formulation and labeled indications.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide has antimicrobial activity and produces the familiar bubbling action when applied to a wound.8,9
It works through oxidation, which can damage microbial fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and genetic material.8 The bubbling action may help loosen debris from an affected area.9
However, higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide may damage healthy cells and newly forming tissue.8,9 The concentration and intended use of the specific product should therefore be considered before application.
It is an iodophor that slowly releases iodine. The iodine acts on microorganisms by disrupting important microbial components, including proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA.10
Laboratory research has demonstrated a 99.99% reduction of a broad range of clinically relevant microorganisms with povidone-iodine under the conditions tested, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores.11
Povidone-iodine also does not contain alcohol, so it does not cause the characteristic alcohol-associated burning or stinging sensation.10
One recognizable characteristic of povidone-iodine is its temporary golden-brown color on the skin.12 Always use povidone-iodine products according to their specific directions and intended use.
How Does Povidone-Iodine Compare With Other Antiseptics?
The main differences between common wound antiseptics relate to their mechanism of action, antimicrobial spectrum, persistence on the skin, and potential effects on tissue.
Antiseptic | Key characteristic | Key consideration |
Alcohol | Broad antimicrobial activity* | |
Chlorhexidine | Persistent activity on skin; strong antibacterial activity* | Activity varies against certain microorganisms |
Hydrogen peroxide | Oxidizing antimicrobial action; bubbling action | Higher concentrations may damage healthy tissue |
Broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores* | Temporarily leaves a golden-brown color on the skin |
These differences mean that consumers should consider the wound, formulation, intended use, and product directions rather than choosing an antiseptic based on one characteristic alone.
What Should You Consider When Choosing an Antiseptic?
1. Intended Use
Is the antiseptic intended for the type of wound you have? Check the product label before applying it. Different formulations may be designed for different uses.
2. Antimicrobial Activity
Different antiseptics have different ranges of activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. Consider the antimicrobial spectrum stated on the product label and proven by clinical studies.
3. Skin and Tissue Considerations
Some antiseptics may cause stinging, dryness, or irritation, while certain concentrations or formulations may affect healthy tissue. Follow the product's directions for use.
4. Product Formulation
Are all products containing the same active ingredient interchangeable? Not necessarily. Concentration and formulation can affect how an antiseptic performs, so follow the directions for the specific product.
5. Directions for Use
Always read and follow the label instructions. Do not assume that every antiseptic is appropriate for every type of wound.
Which Antiseptic Is Best for Wounds?
There is no single antiseptic that is best for every wound or situation. The appropriate choice depends on factors such as the type of wound, antimicrobial activity, tissue considerations, formulation, concentration, and intended use.
For a minor wound, proper wound cleaning remains important. If an antiseptic is appropriate, choose one that is specifically indicated for the intended use and follow its product directions.
Consumers should always check the product label for its intended use and directions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wound Antiseptics
Is povidone-iodine better than alcohol for wounds?
Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores.10,11* Alcohol also has broad antimicrobial activity but may cause stinging, dryness, or skin irritation13 when applied to wounds.2-4 The appropriate choice depends on the wound, the specific formulation, and its intended use.
What is the difference between povidone-iodine and hydrogen peroxide?
Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against a wide range of microorganisms* while hydrogen peroxide works through oxidation and produces a characteristic bubbling action.8-11 Higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide may damage healthy cells and newly forming tissue.8,9 The appropriate product depends on its concentration, formulation, and intended use.
What is the difference between povidone-iodine and chlorhexidine?
Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores* while chlorhexidine is known for persistent activity on the skin and strong antibacterial properties.6,10,11 Chlorhexidine's activity varies against certain microorganisms, including some viruses, fungi, and bacterial spores.6,7*
Does Povidone-iodine contain alcohol?
No. Povidone-iodine does not contain alcohol. It is an iodophor that slowly releases iodine to provide its antimicrobial activity.10 This also means it does not cause the characteristic alcohol-associated burning or stinging sensation.10
Does povidone-iodine kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi?
Yes. Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores.10,11* Laboratory research has also demonstrated a 99.99% reduction of a broad range of clinically relevant microorganisms under the conditions tested.11
What antiseptic kills the most types of germs?
There is no single antiseptic that is universally best for every situation. Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and bacterial spores.10,11* Other antiseptics have different antimicrobial spectra and properties, so the appropriate choice depends on the wound, formulation, concentration, and intended use.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Wound?
An antiseptic is only one part of wound care. Seek medical attention if a wound is deep or severe, does not stop bleeding, contains a foreign object, results from an animal or human bite, or shows signs of infection.
Signs that may require medical evaluation include fever, increasing redness, swelling, warmth, worsening pain, or pus around the wound.
For wounds that may require stitches or other medical treatment, do not rely on an antiseptic alone.
The Bottom Line
There is no single antiseptic that is best for every wound. Alcohol, chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, and povidone-iodine have different mechanisms of action, antimicrobial activity, and considerations for use.
Understanding these differences can help you choose appropriate wound-care products for yourself and your family. Look for products supported by appropriate clinical or scientific evidence and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions.
A versatile antiseptic may also be a practical addition to a home first-aid kit when its formulation and approved indications allow use for different types of minor wounds.
* based on in-vitro data
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
Povidone-Iodine wound products are not recommended for children below age 2.
®: BETADINE is a Registered Trademark of iNova Pharmaceuticals.
References
Atiyeh BS, Dibo SA, Hayek SN. Wound cleansing, topical antiseptics and wound healing. Int Wound J. 2009;6(6):420-430. doi:10.1111/j.1742-481X.2009.00639.x
Mobility Foresights. Philippines isopropyl alcohol market 2026-2031. Mobility Foresights website. Published 2026. Accessed August 11, 2026. https://mobilityforesights.com/product/philippines-isopropyl-alcohol-market.
Gold NA, Mirza TM, Avva U. Alcohol sanitizer. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Updated August 8, 2023. Accessed August 12, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513254/ (NBK513254).
Trevisani, M., Smart, D., Gunthorpe, M. J., Tognetto, M., Barbieri, M., Campi, B., Amadesi, S., Gray, J., Jerman, J. C., Brough, S. J., Owen, D., Smith, G. D., Randall, A. D., Harrison, S., Bianchi, A., Davis, J. B., & Geppetti, P. (2002). Ethanol elicits and potentiates nociceptor responses via the vanilloid receptor-1. Nature Neuroscience, 5(6), 546–551. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn0602-852
Poppolo Deus F, Ouanounou A. Chlorhexidine in Dentistry: Pharmacology, Uses, and Adverse Effects. Int Dent J. 2022;72(3):269-277. doi:10.1016/j.identj.2022.01.005
Karpiński TM, Szkaradkiewicz AK. Chlorhexidine – pharmaco-biological activity and application. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2015;19(7):1321-1326.\
Donskey CJ, Deshpande A. Effect of chlorhexidine bathing in preventing infections and reducing skin burden and environmental contamination: a review of the literature. Am J Infect Control. 2016;44(5 suppl):e17-e21. doi:10.1016/j.ajic.2016.02.024.
Ayub A, Cheong YK, Castro JC, Cumberlege O, Chrysanthou A. Use of Hydrogen Peroxide Vapour for Microbiological Disinfection in Hospital Environments: A Review. Bioengineering (Basel). 2024;11(3):205. Published 2024 Feb 22. doi:10.3390/bioengineering11030205
Shirah B, Shirah H. The effect of hydrogen peroxide on the healing of the laid open wound in the treatment of chronic sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus: a retrospective database analysis of 500 patients. Int J Surg Med. 2016;2(1):17-22. doi:10.5455/ijsm.woundhealing
Ripa S, Bruno N, Reder RF, Casillis R, Roth RI. Clinical applications of povidone-iodine as a topical antimicrobial. In: Paulson DS, ed. Handbook of Topical Antimicrobials: Industrial Applications in Consumer Products and Pharmaceuticals. Marcel Dekker, Inc; 2002:77-98.
Tan E, Johari N. Comparative in vitro evaluation of the antimicrobial activities of povidone-iodine and other commercially available antiseptics against clinically relevant pathogens. GMS Hyg Infect Control. 2021;16:Doc05. doi:10.3205/dgkh000376. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8118165/. Accessed August 12, 2026.
Dedo DD, Alonso WA, Ogura JH. Povidone-iodine: an adjunct in the treatment of wound infections, dehiscences, and fistulas in head and neck surgery. Trans Sect Otolaryngol Am Acad Ophthalmol Otolaryngol. 1977;84(1):68-74.
Lachenmeier DW. Safety evaluation of topical applications of ethanol on the skin and inside the oral cavity. J Occup Med Toxicol. 2008;3:26. doi:10.1186/1745-6673-3-26.
