Can povidone-iodine be used on broken skin?

Iodophor can be used to disinfect damaged skin. Iodophor is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent with effective bactericidal properties, capable of killing various microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Compared to tincture of iodine, iodophor is less irritating and does not cause significant pain. Therefore, iodophor is suitable for treating minor skin injuries such as abrasions and cuts, effectively preventing infection.

When using iodophor to treat damaged skin, it is important to ensure the surrounding skin is clean. Gently rinse away any dirt with clean water. Then apply an appropriate amount of iodophor onto the wound surface using a cotton swab or gauze, taking care not to rub vigorously, which may worsen the injury. If the wound is deep or contains foreign material, it is recommended to seek medical attention before applying iodophor for disinfection. After applying iodophor, cover the wound with a sterile gauze dressing to maintain cleanliness. If signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus discharge appear, seek medical advice promptly for further treatment. Iodophor is a safe and effective disinfectant suitable for most cases of minor skin injuries.