When searching through the many lotions, supplements, antibacterial soaps, and other products promising to soothe the symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), it can be hard to know which ones to try. This is especially true if you have open wounds. Hibiclens, a skin cleanser, is one option you might come across.

Keep reading to learn more about Hibiclens and whether you should ask your doctor about adding it to your HS treatment plan.

What Is Hibiclens?

Hibiclens is an over-the-counter antiseptic skin cleanser that kills germs and prevents infections. Healthcare professionals often use Hibiclens for handwashing and skin cleansing, such as when they’re preparing for surgery or giving injections. It’s also a popular at-home wound care product because it can reduce the risk of infection after cuts, scrapes, or other skin injuries.

The active ingredient in Hibiclens is chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG), which has antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. This means it can kill different types of germs, including bacteria and some viruses and fungi.

Hibiclens is not the only skin cleanser containing chlorhexidine. Similar products include Betasept, Chlorostat, Dyna-Hex, and Hibistat. Generic versions are available online and at local pharmacies.

Should You Use Hibiclens for HS?

Hibiclens is generally safe for most adults, and side effects are rare. However, more research is needed to determine how effective topical chlorhexidine products are at treating HS symptoms.

Chlorhexidine, benzoyl peroxide, and other antibacterial products are often recommended for people with HS because an overgrowth of bacteria can worsen HS symptoms and slow the wound healing process. These antibacterial products may ease HS symptoms by reducing the overgrowth of bacteria on the skin.

However, some experts advise against using chlorhexidine on open wounds deeper than the top layer of skin. This is why it’s essential to speak to your healthcare provider before using Hibiclens. They can help you decide if Hibiclens and other chlorhexidine gluconate products are safe and helpful for your specific situation, based on your diagnosis, skin condition, and overall health.

What myHSteam Members Say

Hibiclens is a popular topic on myHSteam. Many members use this and other chlorhexidine gluconate products regularly.

Here’s what some myHSteam members have shared:

• “My dermatologist prescribed Hibiclens to wash with.”
• “I wash daily with chlorhexidine gluconate and warm water.”
• “I use Hibiclens on the affected areas and Dial Gold on the rest of my body.”
• “My doctors and dermatologist recommended I use Hibiclens in the shower a few times a week.”
• “I use Hibiclens every day.”
• “I clean the area well with Hibiclens and then apply a healthy layer of clindamycin gel or an antibiotic ointment.”
• “I use Hibiclens like a body wash, not just after surgery.”
• “I started washing with chlorhexidine and am seeing a difference under my breasts.”
• “I use an oatmeal soap unless I’m having an HS flare-up. Then I use prescription soap and Hibiclens on my wounds.”
• “I use Hibiclens antiseptic wash and a basic unscented antibacterial soap. Dial works well for me.”
• “I apply Hibiclens to the affected area and let it sit for about five minutes before rinsing with warm water.”

However, not everyone noticed a difference after using chlorhexidine gluconate. One myHSteam member said, “I tried Hibiclens, and it worked no differently than the Dove soap I have used for years.” Another said, “I tried Hibiclens, but I couldn’t tell if it helped or not.”

Another member said, “My daughter uses Hibiclens for every shower. I don’t think you can use too much. She uses it under her arms, in her genital area, and in all the creases, whether or not there are breakouts. Hibiclens seems to help prevent new HS breakouts, but she hasn’t had any success with it helping her get rid of existing breakouts.”

While reading about others’ experiences can be helpful, it’s important to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional before trying to relieve your HS symptoms with Hibiclens or other over-the-counter treatments. What works for one person may not work for everyone.

How To Use Hibiclens

When choosing an antiseptic skin cleanser for HS, look for one with 4 percent chlorhexidine gluconate. Hibiclens and similar name-brand products meet this standard.

Start slowly to see how your skin reacts. Try using it once a week and watch for irritation, sensitivity, or dryness. You can also test a small amount on one area of your body. If your skin tolerates it well, ask your doctor or dermatologist about increasing how often you use it. Some myHSteam members use chlorhexidine products daily.

If you have HS, avoid scrubbing with loofahs and washcloths, as these can irritate your skin. One myHSteam member shared, “I use Hibiclens and mainly use my hands. Don’t scrub. If you use washcloths, make sure they are very clean, almost sterile, and use them gently.”

After bathing, rinse your skin with warm water and pat dry with a clean, dry towel. Avoid using regular soap, deodorants, lotions, powders, perfumes, or other skin care products after using chlorhexidine, as these products can prevent CHG from working.

Side Effects and Risks

Although Hibiclens rarely causes side effects, it’s important to use this and other chlorhexidine products only as directed by your doctor. A 2024 article published in the Archives of Dermatology and Skin Care warned of permanent eye injury, deafness, and other dangers from overuse after chlorhexidine gained popularity on social media.

If you have an allergic reaction to Hibiclens or other wound care products, seek medical attention immediately. Always keep this and other skin care products out of the reach of children.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myHSteam, the social network for people living with hidradenitis suppurativa and their loved ones, more than 46,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who know what it’s like to live with HS.

Have you tried Hibiclens to treat open wounds caused by HS? Did it help? Did you experience side effects? Share your story in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.