Chlorhexidine Digluconate

Chlorhexidine digluconate is a broad-spectrum antiseptic typically used around 0.05–4% (higher in surgical/medical prep), and it is well-documented to cause irritant contact dermatitis and, in a subset of patients, allergic contact reactions. In eczema-prone or barrier-impaired skin, stinging/burning and dermatitis are more likely, and cumulative exposure from repeated cleansing can amplify irritation. Given its active antimicrobial nature and clinically significant irritation/sensitization potential, a significant-risk score is warranted. Safety Notes: In consumer skin-care and personal-care products, chlorhexidine digluconate is most often encountered at very low levels (~0.01–0.05%) as an antimicrobial/anti-odor or preservative-support ingredient in rinse-off cleansers and some leave-on hygiene products. The highest widely consumer-available OTC skin antiseptic/hygiene and acne/blemish-type products typically top out around 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate (higher concentrations are generally positioned as medicinal antiseptics or professional-use preparations rather than cosmetic skincare). Leave-on use is more constrained by irritation/sensitization potential, so the upper end is more commonly seen in rinse-off or short-contact formats.