Benzalkonium chloride and zinc oxide: First aid essentials — November 2023

Most first aid kits have bandages and antiseptic wipes, but two cheap essentials often get ignored: benzalkonium chloride and zinc oxide. Both are simple, easy to use, and cover common problems like small cuts, scrapes, rashes and diaper rash. Benzalkonium chloride is an antiseptic you can find in liquid or wipe form; it kills many bacteria and some viruses, so it’s great for cleaning minor wounds.

Use it on small cuts, insect bites and grazes — dab, don’t pour — and let the area dry before covering. Avoid benzalkonium chloride near eyes, on deep puncture wounds, or large burns; if a wound is deep or won’t stop bleeding, see a clinician.

Zinc oxide is a different but equally helpful tool: it makes a barrier on the skin that protects irritated areas and speeds healing for minor burns and chafing. You know zinc oxide from diaper creams and sunscreens; on small open wounds use a product meant for wound care, not heavy paste intended only for babies. A thin layer over a scraped knee can keep moisture out, reduce pain, and cut the chance of skin breakdown while the body fixes itself.

Quick tips from the posts this month: check product labels for concentration, test a small skin patch if you have sensitive skin, and toss anything past its expiry. When treating kids, use lower concentrations and watch for redness, excessive swelling, or trouble breathing — stop use and get medical help if these appear. Storage matters: keep both products in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight; wipes should stay sealed until use.

If you have diabetes or poor circulation, be extra careful — small wounds can turn serious fast, so check feet and hands daily and see a professional for anything unusual. The November post also walks through practical examples: cleaning a bathroom scrape, treating a sunburned patch, and calming a heat rash with simple home steps.

Want to use these at home? Buy small bottles or tubes so you can replace them often, and label them with the opening date. Remember, these are for minor injuries — big burns, infected wounds, high fever, or deep cuts need prompt medical care. If you’re unsure, take a photo and ask your healthcare team or a pharmacist — a quick photo can save a lot of worry.

On the ADW Diabetes site we link to trusted suppliers and lay out step-by-step tips so you can handle small issues safely at home. Practical takeaway: keep both handy, use small amounts, and call for help if you see spreading redness, pus, or fever.

For concentration, many over-the-counter benzalkonium products are around 0.13% to 0.2%; follow label directions and don’t soak wounds — a quick clean is enough. Reapply zinc oxide once or twice a day for simple skin irritation, more often if the area gets dirty; if redness or pain grows, stop and seek care. Keep your kit restocked and check expiry dates every six months. If you have questions, a pharmacist can show which brands suit sensitive skin.