What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic, colorless and odorless liquid, often produced as aqueous solutions of different strengths. In larger concentrations, it is used mainly for bleaching cotton and wood pulp, and it is in a wide array of cosmetics and personal care products. In smaller, over-the-counter concentrations, it is used to treat and disinfect wounds as an antimicrobial and oxidizing agent and is commonly used throughout the healthcare industry. You may also find it widely being used in non-medical situations for cleaning, disinfecting, and stain removal. 

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Want a hot take? Though hydrogen peroxide is known to have treated wounds and acne for many years, many professionals and doctors urge people to retire it from first-aid purposes. Newer studies show that it irritates skin and can even prevent wounds from healing!

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Is Hydrogen Peroxide “good”?

Yes, but only in smaller quantities. Hydrogen peroxide is an effective and commonly used disinfectant for household cleaning, cosmetic purposes, and more. However, it is important to note that it should only be used in concentrations around 3% to 6% for such purposes, and with caution. Any direct contact with eyes, wounds, and acne should be avoided at all costs. Peroxide in large concentrations (anything above 30%) should be avoided for any type of casual use, as it can even harm the respiratory systems of those exposed to it. 

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In terms of its environmental impact, hydrogen peroxide degrades into oxygen and water, making it less environmentally harmful than other chemicals. It is seen as an “environmentally friendly but dangerous bleaching chemical” by the U.S. Forest Service and a more sustainable alternative to chlorine bleaching. However, high doses of hydrogen peroxide can harm the environment, especially phytoplankton (the base of several aquatic food webs). 

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What is Hydrogen Peroxide used for?

There are different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide available for different uses. Medical-grade hydrogen peroxide comes at 3% strength and serves for disinfecting, stain removal, and other household needs. Hydrogen peroxide in 6-10% strength is used in some hair dyes and teeth whitening products. Food-grade hydrogen peroxide comes with strength as high as 35% and is used to bleach and process certain foods in the food industry. However, using peroxide in food-grade concentrations is not recommended, as exposure can be toxic. 

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In short, stick with medical-grade peroxide and use it for all your cleaning purposes throughout your living space, but make sure to avoid making direct contact with wounds, eyes, and acne. 

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Are there certifications I should look out for?

Hydrogen peroxide products can be regulated through CGMPs (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) Certification. This certification is enforced by the FDA and assures the strength, quality, and purity of drug products. 

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Still want to learn more? Check out some of our favorite references:

Hydrogen Peroxide Overview

What is Hydrogen Peroxide Good For?

What to Know about Hydrogen Peroxide

Why Shouldn’t We Use Hydrogen Peroxide on Wounds?

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