Hibiscrub Antibacterial Skin Cleanser - 500ml (NOW AS HIBIWASH)

What Is Hibiscrub Antibacterial Skin Cleanser?

If you've searched for Hibiscrub recently and noticed it's now labelled as Hibiwash, don't worry — the product is exactly the same. The hibiscrub antibacterial skin cleanser has simply been rebranded, with no change to its formulation or clinical effectiveness. It remains one of the most widely used chlorhexidine-based skin washes in the UK, trusted by healthcare professionals and patients alike for decades. You can find it here at Cured Pharmacy for just £10.99 per 500ml bottle, available without a prescription.

The active ingredient is chlorhexidine gluconate 4% w/v — a well-established antiseptic agent with a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. It's used in hospitals, GP surgeries, and at home for a range of skin cleansing purposes. Whether you've been advised to use it before a surgical procedure or you need a reliable antiseptic wash for everyday hygiene, this product is a practical, clinically backed option. If you're also looking for other skin care products to support your routine, Cured Pharmacy stocks a wide range.

How Does Hibiwash Work to Kill Bacteria?

Chlorhexidine gluconate works by targeting the outer membrane of bacterial cells. Here's what happens when you apply it:

• It binds to the negatively charged surface of bacterial cell membranes.
• This disrupts the membrane's integrity, causing the cell contents to leak out.
• The bacteria are unable to function and die as a result.
• Crucially, chlorhexidine has a residual effect — it continues to work on the skin surface even after rinsing, providing ongoing protection.

This residual action is one reason it's preferred for pre-operative skin preparation. It's effective against a broad range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including some strains of MRSA. It does not, however, have significant activity against bacterial spores or most viruses.

Who Should Use This Antibacterial Skin Wash?

This product is suitable for adults and older children who need a reliable antiseptic skin cleanser. It's particularly useful in the following situations:

• Pre-operative skin preparation, as directed by a surgical or medical team.
• Hygienic hand disinfection in clinical or care settings.
• Management of skin conditions where bacterial colonisation is a concern, such as infected eczema — always under medical guidance.
• General antiseptic cleansing where a standard soap is insufficient.

It is not suitable for use on newborns, premature infants, or individuals with a known allergy to chlorhexidine. People with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before widespread use. If you're unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing.

How Does Hibiwash Compare to Other Antiseptic Washes?

Is Hibiwash Safe to Store at Home?

Yes, storing this product at home is straightforward. Keep it below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and out of reach of children. Do not freeze the product. Once opened, check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use it beyond that date. The 500ml bottle is a practical size for home use, particularly if you've been advised to use it as part of a pre-operative preparation protocol.

If you're managing a skin condition alongside using this wash, you might also find our creams and ointments collection useful for complementary topical treatments. Always check with your GP or pharmacist before combining products on affected skin.

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.

What Is Hibiwash and What Is It Used For?

Hibiwash — previously known as Hibiscrub — is a topical antibacterial skin cleanser containing chlorhexidine gluconate 4% w/v. It is used for hygienic and surgical hand disinfection, pre-operative skin preparation, and general antiseptic cleansing of the skin. It is not a treatment for infection in the traditional sense; rather, it reduces the bacterial load on the skin surface to lower the risk of infection spreading or developing. It is available over the counter and does not require a prescription.

Healthcare professionals frequently recommend it to patients ahead of planned surgical procedures, and it is also used in clinical environments for hand hygiene. Some dermatologists may recommend it for patients with recurrent skin infections or conditions such as infected eczema, though this should always be under medical supervision. If you're managing a wound or skin concern alongside this product, our first aid collection includes a range of complementary products.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Hibiwash?

Before using this product, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

• Do not use if you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or any other ingredient in the formulation.
• Do not apply to the eyes, ears, or mucous membranes — chlorhexidine can cause serious damage to these tissues.
• Do not use on newborns or premature infants.
• Avoid use on large areas of broken, damaged, or burned skin without medical advice.
• Do not use in body cavities or on the brain, meninges, or middle ear.
• Avoid contact with the genital area unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.

In terms of interactions, chlorhexidine gluconate used topically has no clinically significant systemic drug interactions when used as directed. However, be aware of the following:

• Chlorhexidine is incompatible with anionic surfactants (found in some soaps) — rinse thoroughly before applying.
• Do not mix with other antiseptic agents unless advised by a healthcare professional.

How Should You Use Hibiwash Correctly?

Always follow the instructions provided with the product or those given by your healthcare team. Here is a general guide for use:

1. Wet the skin or hands thoroughly with water.
2. Apply a small amount of Hibiwash directly to the skin or hands.
3. Lather gently and work into the skin for the recommended contact time (typically 1–2 minutes for surgical scrubbing).
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
5. Pat dry with a clean towel or sterile gauze.
6. For pre-operative whole-body washing, follow your surgical team's specific protocol — this often involves washing the night before and on the morning of surgery.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Hibiwash?

Like all medicines, Hibiwash can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the area of application.

Common side effects:

• Skin dryness
• Mild redness or irritation at the application site
• Itching or a mild burning sensation

Less common side effects:

• Contact dermatitis (an inflammatory skin reaction)
• Skin peeling or flaking with prolonged use
• Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight) in rare cases

Serious allergic reactions to chlorhexidine, including anaphylaxis, have been reported, though these are rare. Signs include sudden swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop use immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. The NHS provides guidance on recognising and responding to anaphylaxis, which is worth familiarising yourself with if you have a history of allergic reactions.

How Should You Store Hibiwash?

Correct storage helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety. Follow these guidelines:

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

If you're building a home first aid kit or looking for other hygiene and health essentials, our skin care collection has a range of products to support everyday health needs.