Before surgery, it is important to clean your skin to reduce the risk of infection. Your surgeon may ask you to shower with an antibacterial soap or antiseptic soap containing chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) . Here are some details about pre-surgery soap products:

Positive aspects:

• Antibacterial and antiseptic soaps can reduce the number of germs on your skin.
• CHG soap provides persistent antimicrobial efficacy and added emollients that keep the skin moist and protected.
• Studies have shown that it is important to shower or bathe before surgery, regardless of the antiseptic soap product used.

Negative aspects:

• Some people may be allergic to certain soap products, so it is important to tell your surgeon or nurse if you are allergic to any of the recommended products.

Ingredients or materials:

• Antibacterial soaps like Dial, Lever, or Safeguard contain antibacterial agents that can help reduce the number of germs on your skin.
• Antiseptic soaps containing CHG, such as Hibiclens and Hydrex Surgical Scrub, are commonly used before surgery.
• CHG is a special chemical found in soaps that can reduce the number of germs on your skin.
• Other ingredients in CHG soap may include fragrance, isopropyl alcohol, purified water, and coloring agents.

It is important to follow your surgeons instructions regarding pre-surgery soap products to reduce the risk of infection.