Potassium permanganate, a common disinfectant, was discovered in 1857.
It is a chemical compound formed by combining potassium hydroxide with manganese oxide ore. Since its discovery, it has been widely used to treat various skin issues. It is a powerful oxidizing agent which renders disinfectant properties. Also, it has astringent and deodorizing properties. The chemical formula of Potassium permanganate is KMnO4. It is also popular with the name Condy's crystals, as it is a crystalline substance. An amazing property displayed by KMnO4 is its instant dissolution in water. After dissolution, the water color changes to pink or purple. This compound possesses a unique flavor. Some chemical compounds are antiseptic in nature. It is one such substance. Potassium permanganate, when reacted with organic compounds, gets reduced, leading to oxygen release which inhibits the growth of any microorganism. Following are some important details about Potassium permanganate which include its impact on skin and application procedures.
Potassium permanganate treats skin infections:
It is effective against eczema-like skin infections. Potassium permanganate makes the skin surface dry after eczema or blisters. It helps in faster recovery. Sometimes, doctors suggest wet dressing on wounds with this chemical. It might be irritating at first but promotes faster recovery.
Potassium permanganate and open wounds:
If you have any open wounds, doctors might have suggested you have potassium permanganate in-house. Wound decontamination is a must for proper recovery. It prevents further infection. It disinfects wounds by oxidizing the injured area. This accelerates the healing process.
Potassium permanganate and bacterial infections:
If you roam around barefoot, you will surely get infected with microorganisms. It may be fungal or bacterial. One lethal infection is the Athlete’s foot. This is caused by fungus. Potassium permanganate should be used for dressing purposes before applyingany medicine.
Other uses of potassium permanganate:
Doctors often suggest using potassium permanganate to treat acne. After applying to acne the surface will become dry. So, you must apply moisturizer after this. Also, skin burns or places with excessive sweating can be washed with potassium permanganate.
How prepare a solution with potassium permanganate?
At first, you need to heat the water, then drop 10-12 crystals of potassium permanganate. The color of the water will automatically change to light or dark pink. Do contact this water with bare hands. Use a piece of cotton and soak it. Then use this cotton onto the injured place. If the cut or infection is big, take more than one piece of cotton to wash this place. Do not use extremely hot water, as it will cause severe irritation. Use lukewarm water for a soothing effect. Discard the water after using it. Some people like to bathe with disinfectant. But do not take bath with potassium permanganate water. It may cause allergic reactions.
Potassium permanganate is sold commercially in the form of crystalline powder. But, you need a prescription from a doctor to purchase it.
