Povidone-Iodine: Uses, How to Use It Safely

Povidone-iodine is a common topical antiseptic you probably recognize by its brown color. It kills bacteria, fungi, and many viruses, so people use it to clean small wounds, prep skin before minor procedures, and sometimes as a mouth rinse when directed by a clinician. It’s easy to find, but a few simple rules help you use it safely and get the best result.

How to use povidone-iodine

Start by washing your hands. Gently clean dirt away from the wound with water and mild soap. If bleeding is heavy or the cut is deep, see a clinician instead of treating at home. For small cuts and scrapes, apply a thin layer of povidone-iodine solution or ointment over the area and let it air dry. If you have the concentrated scrub, use it only for intact skin and rinse it off as directed.

Many over-the-counter products are labeled 10%. You don’t usually need to dilute these for minor wound care. If a healthcare provider tells you to dilute for a larger skin area or for irrigation, follow their exact instructions. For surgical skin prep professionals often keep the area wet for at least a minute or two to allow the antiseptic to work.

For mouth or throat rinses, use only formulations made for oral use and only when a doctor or dentist recommends it. Do not swallow povidone-iodine mouthwash.

Warnings and tips

Before using, test a small area if you’ve never used it — some people get irritation or allergic reaction. Don’t use povidone-iodine on large burned areas, deep puncture wounds, or severe animal bites without medical care. People with thyroid disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and newborns should check with their doctor because iodine can be absorbed through skin and affect thyroid function in sensitive groups.

Avoid mixing or using it right after hydrogen peroxide or bleach. It will stain skin and fabrics brown — the stain is harmless but can be annoying. If it causes strong burning, spreading redness, or pus, stop using it and seek medical advice. For routine wound care, cover with a clean bandage after the antiseptic dries and change the dressing daily or sooner if it gets wet or dirty.

Store povidone-iodine at room temperature away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tight. Check the expiry date—old solutions lose strength. If you’re unsure whether to use it or which product to buy, ask a pharmacist or clinician. It’s a useful, inexpensive antiseptic when used correctly, but it’s not a substitute for professional care when wounds are serious.

If you notice increasing pain, spreading redness larger than two fingers, fever, red streaks toward the heart, or pus, see a doctor — these are signs of infection that need more than home treatment. Also check tetanus shots for dirty wounds. For babies and premature infants, don’t use povidone-iodine unless a pediatrician advises it. Keep a small first-aid kit stocked with sterile gauze, tape, and a recommended antiseptic for quick care.