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Adex Gel 100g

Adex Gel 100g

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  • ✔️ Chlorhexidine gluconate kills a broad spectrum of bacteria
  • ✔️ Gel formulation stays in place on skin during application
  • ✔️ Helps prevent infection in minor cuts and grazes
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and older children without a prescription
  • ✔️ 100g tube provides generous supply for home first aid

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What Is Adex Gel and How Does It Help Your Skin?

 

Adex Gel is a topical antiseptic gel containing chlorhexidine gluconate, a clinically recognised antimicrobial agent widely used in healthcare and home first aid settings across the UK. At just £3.99 for a 100g tube, it offers an accessible and effective option for everyday skin cleansing, minor wound care, and disinfection. Whether you've caught a graze on a walk or need to clean a small cut before dressing it, this gel is a practical addition to any home medicine cabinet. You can also browse our wider range of skin care products if you're looking for complementary options.

Chlorhexidine gluconate has been used in clinical practice for decades. It's well-studied, well-tolerated by most people, and recognised by the NHS as an effective antiseptic for skin and wound cleansing. The gel formulation means it stays in place on the skin rather than running off, which makes application easier and more targeted — particularly useful on awkward areas like knees or elbows.

 

How Does Adex Gel Work on the Skin?

 

The active ingredient, chlorhexidine gluconate, works by targeting the outer membrane of bacterial cells. Once it comes into contact with bacteria, it disrupts the integrity of the cell membrane, causing the contents to leak out and the bacteria to die. This makes it effective against a broad spectrum of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria — the types most commonly responsible for skin infections following minor injuries.

  • Chlorhexidine binds to bacterial cell membranes on contact
  • It disrupts membrane permeability, causing cell death
  • It remains active on the skin for a period after application (residual activity)
  • It is effective against a wide range of common skin bacteria

The gel base helps the active ingredient stay in contact with the skin for longer, maximising its antiseptic effect. It's worth noting that Adex Gel is not intended for use inside the body, on deep puncture wounds, or on severely infected tissue — for those situations, you should seek medical advice promptly.

 

Who Should Use Adex Gel?

 

Adex Gel is suitable for adults and older children who need a reliable antiseptic for minor skin injuries or cleansing. It's particularly useful for people who are active outdoors, parents managing children's scrapes, or anyone who wants a straightforward antiseptic gel at home. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone — always read the label and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.

  • Adults with minor cuts, grazes, or abrasions
  • People needing to cleanse skin before applying a dressing
  • Those looking for a non-stinging antiseptic alternative to iodine-based products
  • Individuals with a preference for a gel format over liquid antiseptics

 

How Does Adex Gel Compare to Other Antiseptic Products?

 

Feature Adex Gel 100g Savlon Antiseptic Cream
Active ingredient Chlorhexidine gluconate Chlorhexidine + cetrimide
Formulation Gel Cream
Residual antibacterial activity Yes Limited
Price (approx.) £3.99 £3.50–£5.00

 

Is Adex Gel Suitable for Sensitive Skin and How Should It Be Stored?

 

Most people tolerate Adex Gel well, but if you have a history of skin sensitivity or allergic reactions to antiseptics, it's worth doing a small patch test before applying it more widely. Chlorhexidine sensitivity, while uncommon, does exist — and in rare cases can cause contact dermatitis or, very rarely, a more serious allergic reaction. If you notice redness, swelling, or itching that seems disproportionate, stop use immediately and speak to a pharmacist. You might also find our first aid range helpful for complementary wound care products.

Store Adex Gel below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube. Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination and drying of the gel.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Adex Gel 100g specifications
Treatment category Antiseptic / Skin cleansing
Active ingredient Chlorhexidine gluconate
Mechanism of action Disrupts bacterial cell membranes, causing cell death
Suitable for Adults and older children (minor skin cleansing and wound care)
Pack size 100g tube
UK classification General Sale Medicine (GSL)
Drug class Antiseptic / Antimicrobial
Preparation Topical gel
Route of administration Topical (applied to skin)

Specifications of Adex Gel 100g

 

What Is Adex Gel and What Is It Used For?

 

Adex Gel 100g is a topical antiseptic gel containing chlorhexidine gluconate as its active ingredient. It is used for cleansing and disinfecting the skin around minor cuts, grazes, abrasions, and superficial wounds to help prevent bacterial infection. It may also be used for general skin hygiene in situations where a reliable antiseptic is needed. Adex Gel is available over the counter without a prescription and is classified as a General Sale Medicine (GSL) in the UK.

The NHS recognises chlorhexidine as an effective antiseptic for skin and wound cleansing. It is not a treatment for established deep infections, and it should not replace professional medical care for serious wounds or infected tissue.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Adex Gel?

 

Before using Adex Gel, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not use this product if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate or any other ingredient in the gel
  • You have a known hypersensitivity to antiseptic products
  • The wound is deep, heavily bleeding, or shows signs of serious infection (redness spreading, pus, fever)
  • You need to apply it near the eyes, ears, or mucous membranes
  • You are treating a newborn or very young infant — seek medical advice first

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use. Topical antiseptics are generally considered low risk when used on intact or minimally broken skin, but professional guidance is always advisable during pregnancy.

In terms of drug interactions, chlorhexidine gluconate applied topically has no known significant systemic drug interactions. However, be aware of the following:

  • Do not use alongside other topical antiseptics on the same area without pharmacist advice
  • Avoid combining with iodine-based products on the same wound site
  • Some wound dressings may be incompatible — check with your pharmacist

 

How Should You Use Adex Gel?

 

Using Adex Gel correctly is straightforward, but following the steps below will help you get the most from it while minimising any risk of irritation or contamination.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the gel or touching the wound
  2. Clean the affected area gently with clean water to remove any visible dirt or debris
  3. Squeeze a small amount of Adex Gel onto a clean cotton pad, gauze, or directly onto the skin
  4. Apply gently to the wound or affected skin area — do not rub vigorously
  5. Allow the gel to dry naturally or cover with a suitable dressing if needed
  6. Wash your hands again after application
  7. Do not apply to large areas of broken skin without medical advice
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Minor cuts and grazes Adults and older children Small amount to affected area Up to 2–3 times daily
Skin cleansing before dressing Adults Small amount to affected area As required
Young children / infants Under 2 years Seek pharmacist advice As directed by pharmacist

If you are managing a wound in a child, our baby and toddler range includes products specifically formulated for younger skin.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Adex Gel?

 

Like all medicines, Adex Gel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the area of application. If you experience anything severe or unexpected, stop use and seek medical advice.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin irritation or redness at the application site
  • Temporary stinging or tingling sensation on broken skin
  • Dry skin around the treated area with repeated use

Less common side effects:

  • Contact dermatitis (an allergic skin reaction causing itching, rash, or blistering)
  • Skin discolouration with prolonged use on certain skin types
  • Rarely, a more serious hypersensitivity reaction — seek emergency help if you develop swelling of the face, throat, or difficulty breathing

 

How Should You Store Adex Gel?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness of Adex Gel and keeps it safe for use. Follow these storage guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Store out of sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube or packaging
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused product to your pharmacy

For a broader selection of wound care and antiseptic products, you may also want to explore our creams and ointments collection.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Adex Gel online in the UK?

You can buy Adex Gel 100g online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £3.99. It is available without a prescription and can be ordered directly to your door. No GP visit is required for this over-the-counter antiseptic gel.

What is Adex Gel used for?

Adex Gel is used for cleansing and disinfecting the skin around minor cuts, grazes, and abrasions to help prevent bacterial infection. It contains chlorhexidine gluconate, a well-established antiseptic ingredient recognised by the NHS. It is not intended for use on deep wounds or serious infections — seek medical advice in those cases.

How does Adex Gel work in the body?

Adex Gel works topically — it does not enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts when used as directed on intact or minimally broken skin. The active ingredient, chlorhexidine gluconate, disrupts the outer membranes of bacteria on the skin surface, causing them to die. This helps prevent infection from developing in minor wounds.

How do I apply Adex Gel step by step?

First, wash your hands and clean the wound gently with water. Then apply a small amount of Adex Gel to a clean gauze pad or directly to the skin, and allow it to dry before covering with a dressing if needed. Avoid applying near the eyes, ears, or mouth, and wash your hands again after use.

How often should I apply Adex Gel?

For most minor cuts and grazes, Adex Gel can be applied up to two to three times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist. You should not apply it more frequently than needed, as overuse may cause skin dryness or irritation. Always follow the instructions on the product label.

Can children use Adex Gel?

Adex Gel may be used on older children for minor skin cleansing, but you should consult a pharmacist or GP before using it on infants or children under two years of age. For younger children, gentler formulations may be more appropriate — you can browse our baby and toddler range for suitable alternatives. Always keep the product out of reach of children.

What are the side effects of Adex Gel?

Most people tolerate Adex Gel well, but some may experience mild skin irritation, redness, or a temporary stinging sensation at the application site. Less commonly, contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction may occur. If you develop significant swelling, blistering, or difficulty breathing, stop use immediately and seek emergency medical help.

How do I manage side effects of Adex Gel?

If you experience mild irritation, rinse the area with clean water and allow the skin to settle before deciding whether to continue use. For persistent redness or a rash, stop using the gel and speak to your pharmacist. Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical attention — call 999 if you experience throat swelling or difficulty breathing.

Is Adex Gel safe to use during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your pharmacist or GP before using Adex Gel, even though it is applied topically. Topical antiseptics are generally considered low risk on small areas of skin, but professional guidance is always the safest approach during pregnancy. Do not apply to large areas of broken skin without medical advice.

Who is eligible to use Adex Gel?

Adex Gel is suitable for most adults and older children who need an antiseptic for minor skin injuries or cleansing. It is not suitable for people with a known allergy to chlorhexidine gluconate, or for use on deep wounds, heavily infected tissue, or near the eyes and ears. If you are unsure whether it is right for you, ask your pharmacist before use.

What happens if I accidentally get Adex Gel in my eyes?

If Adex Gel comes into contact with your eyes, rinse immediately and thoroughly with clean water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Chlorhexidine can cause serious eye irritation and, in some cases, corneal damage if not rinsed promptly. Seek medical attention if irritation persists after rinsing.

What are alternatives to Adex Gel for minor wound care?

Alternatives include Savlon Antiseptic Cream (chlorhexidine and cetrimide), Dettol Antiseptic Liquid (chloroxylenol), and simple saline wound wash for gentle cleansing. The right choice depends on the type of wound and your skin sensitivity. You can explore our full first aid range for a variety of wound care options.

How long can you use Adex Gel for?

Adex Gel is intended for short-term use on minor skin injuries. If a wound has not shown signs of improvement within seven days of treatment, you should stop using the gel and consult a pharmacist or GP. Prolonged use on the same area without improvement may indicate an underlying infection requiring a different treatment.

Can I use Adex Gel on infected skin?

Adex Gel is suitable for helping to prevent infection in minor wounds, but it is not a treatment for established skin infections. If your wound shows signs of infection — such as spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever — you should seek medical advice rather than relying on an over-the-counter antiseptic gel alone. A GP may need to prescribe antibiotics in such cases.

What are the latest guidelines on chlorhexidine for wound care?

Current NHS and clinical guidance supports the use of chlorhexidine-based antiseptics for cleansing minor wounds and preventing infection in community settings. However, guidance also notes that for clean, minor wounds, thorough rinsing with clean running water is often sufficient as a first step. Antiseptic gels like Adex Gel are recommended as a follow-up step where additional antimicrobial protection is needed.

How Should You Use Adex Gel?

Adex Gel is designed for topical use only — it should never be swallowed or applied inside the body. Before you begin, make sure the area you are treating is as clean as possible, as this helps the antiseptic work more effectively and reduces the risk of trapping debris under the gel.

Avoid applying Adex Gel near the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. If accidental contact occurs with the eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water and seek medical advice if irritation continues.

What Is the Correct Dose of Adex Gel?

There is no fixed measured dose for Adex Gel in the way there is for oral medicines — the amount you use depends on the size of the area being treated. As a general guide, a small amount is sufficient for most minor wounds. Using more than necessary does not improve the antiseptic effect and may increase the chance of skin irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Adex Gel?

The best time to apply Adex Gel is immediately after cleaning a minor wound, before applying a dressing. Applying it promptly after an injury helps reduce the bacterial load on the skin before any infection has a chance to establish. If you are using it as part of a regular wound care routine, applying it at consistent times — such as morning and evening — makes it easier to remember and helps maintain a steady antiseptic effect on the healing skin.

Avoid applying Adex Gel immediately before vigorous physical activity, as sweating may wash the gel away before it has had time to work effectively.

How Long Can You Use Adex Gel For?

Adex Gel is intended for short-term use only. For most minor cuts and grazes, you should see clear signs of healing within five to seven days. If the wound does not appear to be improving — or if it looks worse, more red, or begins to produce discharge — stop using the gel and consult a pharmacist or GP as soon as possible.

Do not use Adex Gel continuously on the same area for more than seven days without seeking professional advice. Prolonged use may cause skin dryness or irritation, and a wound that is not healing may need a different type of treatment altogether.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Adex Gel?

Most people who use Adex Gel do not experience significant side effects. When reactions do occur, they are usually mild and limited to the area where the gel has been applied. These typically resolve on their own once you stop using the product or reduce how often you apply it.

  • Mild redness or skin irritation at the application site
  • Temporary stinging or tingling sensation, particularly on broken skin
  • Dryness or tightness of the skin around the treated area with repeated use

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Adex Gel?

A smaller number of people may experience more noticeable reactions, particularly those with sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies. These are less common but worth being aware of before you start using the product.

  • Contact dermatitis — an allergic skin reaction causing itching, a rash, or blistering
  • Skin discolouration with prolonged or repeated use on certain skin types
  • Increased sensitivity or burning sensation if applied to a large area of broken skin

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Adex Gel?

Serious side effects from topical chlorhexidine gluconate are rare, but they can occur. Chlorhexidine sensitivity — including anaphylaxis — has been reported, though this is uncommon with over-the-counter topical use. You should be aware of the warning signs and act quickly if they appear.

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Sudden drop in blood pressure or feeling faint
  • Widespread skin rash or hives appearing rapidly after application

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using Adex Gel immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild irritation or redness, rinse the affected area with clean water and allow the skin to rest. You do not necessarily need to stop using the product permanently — but give the skin time to recover before reapplying. If the irritation is persistent or worsening, stop use and speak to your pharmacist, who can advise on alternative wound care options.

For any suspected allergic reaction — even a mild one — it is sensible to stop using the product and seek pharmacist or GP advice before trying it again. A patch test on a small area of skin before wider use can help identify sensitivity in advance.

Can Adex Gel Interact With Other Medicines?

Chlorhexidine gluconate applied topically has no known significant interactions with oral or systemic medicines. However, you should avoid using Adex Gel at the same time as other topical antiseptics on the same wound site, as combining antiseptic agents can sometimes increase the risk of skin irritation without providing additional benefit. If you are using any prescribed topical treatments on the same area, check with your pharmacist before adding Adex Gel to your routine.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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