Dettol is first aid liquid antiseptic disinfectant product from Reckitt Benckiser. Dettol was launched in India in 1933 in the Antiseptic liquid form as a treatment for cuts and wounds. It is also used by people for bathing, mopping, shaving and other secondary purposes. Dettol Antiseptic Liquid has some strong and distinct smell.
Ingredient or Chemical Composition of Dettol
Chloroxylenol BP 4.8% w/v, chemical compound with the formula C8H9ClO: It is the active ingredient in Dettol to fight against germs which can cause infections and illness.
Chloroxylenol kills wide variety of microbes, bacteria and fungi. It works by disruption of cell membrane potentials; blocking production of adenosine triphosphate (effectively starving the cells) and thus killing the microbes.
Pine Oil: Pine oil is extracted from Pinus sylvestris/Pine tree needles, twigs and cones by steam distillation. It is naturally deodorizing, and antibacterial.
Isopropyl: isopropanol has formula C3H8O. It has strong smell and added to increase the effectiveness of Dettol against germs or infections.
Caramel: Caramel is a dark unsweetened liquid and is used to add color.
Uses of Dettol
Antiseptic wound cleansing and disinfecting liquid.
First aid to help prevent infection in minor cuts, bites, abrasions, insect stings.
How to use Dettol
- For cuts, bites, stings, dilute one tablespoon in a glass of water. Apply to affected area and cover with bandage.
- For dandruff, dilute one tablespoon in 500 ml water.
- For midwifery, dilute 1 cupful of Dettol liquid in 2.5 liter of water for external use.
- For bathing, dilute ½ – 1 cupful of Dettol liquid to bath water.
- For disinfecting floor add 3 cupful of Dettol liquid in 2.5 L of water.
- For laundry, add 3 cupful of Dettol liquid in 2.5 liter of water.
- Always dilute Dettol liquid before using. Undiluted Dettol liquid antiseptic can be used in urgent cases but not on sensitive and eczematous skins.