How do you take Chloroxylenol?

Chloroxylenol is for external use only; never drink it. For wound cleaning, dilute about 1-2 capfuls in a bowl of clean water and use it to wash the affected area. For bathing or general hygiene, add 2-3 capfuls to your bath water. Always follow the dilution instructions on the specific product you buy, as concentrations may vary between brands like Dettol, Germol, or Corysan.

What are the side effects of Chloroxylenol?

Mild skin irritation or dryness, slight burning or stinging sensation when applied to open wounds, allergic skin rash in some people, drying out of the skin with frequent use

Who should not take Chloroxylenol?

People who are allergic to chloroxylenol or any ingredient in the product should not use it. Do not use it inside the body; never use it as a vaginal douche, ear drop, or for enemas. Avoid use on very deep wounds or severe burns without medical guidance.

OTC

Antiseptic and Disinfectant

Chloroxylenol

Q: What is Chloroxylenol used for?

Cleaning and disinfecting minor cuts, wounds, and scratches, preventing skin infections, general body hygiene, household disinfection, treating minor skin infections

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Chloroxylenol is an antiseptic and disinfectant that works by killing bacteria, fungi, and other germs on the skin and surfaces. It is the active ingredient in popular antiseptic liquids used for cleaning wounds and general hygiene.

How it works

Disrupts bacterial and fungal cell membranes by interacting with lipid bilayers, causing leakage of intracellular contents and cell death, while also denaturing microbial proteins through oxidative mechanisms.

What is it used for?

Cleaning and disinfecting minor cutswoundsand scratchespreventing skin infectionsgeneral body hygienehousehold disinfectiontreating minor skin infections

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Skin Infections Topical Antibiotics & Antiseptics Wound Care & Antiseptics

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

Quick Interaction Check

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Similar drugs

Phenol

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What to watch out for

Always dilute properly before use, as using it straight from the bottle can burn or irritate your skin badly. Never swallow antiseptic liquids; if a child accidentally drinks it, rush to the nearest hospital immediately. Buy only from reputable pharmacies or stores, and avoid repackaged antiseptic liquids from roadside sellers, as they may be diluted, expired, or fake.

Common Side Effects

Mild skin irritation or dryness
slight burning or stinging sensation when applied to open wounds
allergic skin rash in some people
drying out of the skin with frequent use

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction with swelling of the face
lips
or throat: go to the hospital immediately. Chemical burns on the skin if used undiluted or in very high concentrations: rinse with plenty of water and seek medical help. If accidentally swallowed
it can cause serious damage to the mouth
throat
and stomach
so rush to the hospital immediately.

Drug Interactions

Do not mix chloroxylenol solutions with other antiseptics or disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide or iodine, as they may react and reduce effectiveness. Avoid using it together with medicated creams on the same wound without your pharmacist's advice.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Generally considered safe for external use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when properly diluted, but avoid applying it near the breast area if you are breastfeeding, and consult your doctor if you have concerns.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to chloroxylenol or any ingredient in the product should not use it. Do not use it inside the body; never use it as a vaginal douche
ear drop
or for enemas. Avoid use on very deep wounds or severe burns without medical guidance.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed after use. Keep well out of reach of children, as the concentrated liquid is dangerous if swallowed.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.