Dakin’s antiseptic solution: An effective homemade solution!
Dakin’s solution is a preparation with disinfecting properties. In addition to being inexpensive, it can be made quickly and easily at home. However, it is important to use the correct dilution in order to obtain an effective and safe mixture. Dakin solution should be used for external use only. It should not be saved for later use, as it quickly degrades and loses its effectiveness. Any unused portion should therefore be discarded after use.
How to prepare Dakin’s solution
As mentioned above, the recipe is simple - just mix bleach and water. Keep in mind, however, that the different brands of bleach on the market do not contain the same percentages of sodium hypochlorite. The amounts used to prepare it therefore differ depending on the kind of bleach used to make it.
4% bleach (ex. La Parisiennetm) | 5ml in 800ml of boiled water |
6% bleach(ex. La Javextm) | 5ml in 1200ml of boiled water |
Dakin’s solution can be used 1 to 2 times a day, always taking care to protect the skin and then rinsing it with cool, boiled water. This preparation should not be used regularly and chronically, as it could possibly delay healing.
There is an alternative chlorine-free preparation. It can be prepared just as easily, but is a little more expensive. It is odourless and does not stain fabric.
| Hibitane solution 20% (ex. Baxedintm) | 2.5ml in 1000ml of water |
These preparations are effective antiseptics, but remember that hand-washing remains one of the best ways to reduce the risk of transmission of most infectious diseases.
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