Self-Instruct
As we continue to face the current pandemic, one of the most common topics that we hear on the media is about cleaning and disinfecting. People are often told to clean and disinfect their living spaces to avoid the spread of the virus. One of the primary products that are commonly used for cleaning and disinfecting is antiseptics and disinfectants. Though these two are everyday products that we use, many people don't know the difference between them. In this article, we will discuss the differences between antiseptics and disinfectants.
Antiseptics are products that are meant to be used on living cells and tissues, e.g., skin, mucous membranes, etc. to prevent the growth of microorganisms in and on these cells. Antiseptics are commonly used for hand sanitizing, cleaning and healing wounds, and in mouthwash for oral hygiene, among many other uses. They work by reducing the number of microbes present on the surface of the skin or any other body part that they come in contact with, thus preventing or delaying the growth/ multiplication of microorganisms.
Some commonly used antiseptics are hydrogen peroxide, ethanol, boric acid, iodine, and chlorhexidine. These antiseptics work by disrupting the cell membrane of microorganisms, damaging their DNA or RNA, or by denaturing essential proteins that are necessary for their survival. This results in the killing of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms present on the applied surface.
In contrast, disinfectants are products that are intended to kill, inactivate, and/or remove microbial organisms present on non-living surfaces such as furniture, utensils, or any other surface. Disinfectants work by targeting and destroying the cell membrane of microbes along with their DNA or RNA and other cellular components that are vital to their existence. Disinfectants are used commonly in hospitals, clinics, and other medical practices as a means of controlling and preventing the spread of pathogens. They're often used in higher concentrations than antiseptics as the surfaces they are applied to may be heavily contaminated.
Different disinfectants have different target organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. For instance, disinfectants like sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and quaternary ammonium compounds are commonly used to disinfect surfaces contaminated with bacteria and viruses. However, formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde may be used to disinfect surfaces contaminated with fungi, viruses, and bacterial spores.
Despite their differences, antiseptics and disinfectants are both essential in reducing the spread of germs. However, their uses and applications are different. When it comes to use, antiseptics are intended for use on living cells and tissues to minimize the harmful effects of microbial growth, while disinfectants are used on inanimate surfaces to eliminate the presence of microorganisms.
Another difference between the two is their concentrations. Antiseptics are less concentrated than disinfectants. In fact, the concentration of an antiseptic product lies within the range of 0.2% to 5%. This is because antiseptics have to be safe for use on living cells and tissues, which are sensitive and delicate. On the other hand, disinfectants have a higher concentration because non-living surfaces are less sensitive, so a high level of antimicrobial activity is necessary to eradicate or reduce the microbial load on the surface.
Lastly, the products' mode of action is different. Antiseptics "clean" surfaces by inhibiting microbial growth or reducing their numbers, while disinfectants "kill" microorganisms. Antiseptics work by denaturing proteins in microbes’ cells or accumulating on the cellular surfaces to remove the semi-permeable barriers surrounding the microbe. In contrast, disinfectants target cellular structures or biochemical pathways necessary for microbial growth and survival.
In summary, antiseptics and disinfectants are often used interchangeably as germ-killing agents. However, they differ in terms of their intended use, concentration, and mode of action. Antiseptics are intended for use on living organisms to reduce the growth of microorganisms, whereas disinfectants are used on non-living surfaces to eliminate the presence of microorganisms. It's important to note that using the wrong product or using it improperly can cause harm to living tissue or result in the growth of microbial resistance. Therefore, it's important to follow the guidelines on the product label or consult a professional for advice on the appropriate product to use.