The Lab
Specimen No. 0206
CautionSyntheticantisepticcosmetic preservative

Chlorhexidine (digluconate)

CAS 18472-51-0 · Chlorhexidine digluconate · Chlorhexidine gluconate · CHG

A broad-spectrum antiseptic and cosmetic preservative that, though usually well tolerated, is an established cause of contact allergy and rare life-threatening anaphylaxis.

high confidence
Researched July 7, 2026

Concerns

  • As exposure has become more widespread, adverse reactions to chlorhexidine have increased and range from mild irritant contact dermatitis to life-threatening anaphylaxis, with allergic contact dermatitis in some cases preceding anaphylaxis (Silvestri 2013, PMID 23665831)
  • A case of severe perioperative contact anaphylaxis to chlorhexidine skin antisepsis was confirmed by elevated serum tryptase together with positive skin tests and chlorhexidine-specific IgE (Sandoval Morales 2025, PMID 40861673)

Regulatory flags

  • IARC Class: NL
  • EDC Status: Not established
  • Regulatory: US FDA: 2017 warning on rare serious allergic reactions/anaphylaxis; EU: permitted preservative (Annex V, up to 0.3%)
  • Evidence Grade: B

Commonly found in

Antiseptic skin cleanserMouthwashSurgical scrubWound washPreservative in cosmetics

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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