Potassium permanganate, when diluted, is a mild antiseptic and something that dries the skin.
External use only
Potassium permanganate is for external use only. It must not be taken by mouth as this can be fatal.
What is potassium permanganate used for?
Potassium permanganate is used to treat:
- Weeping or infected eczema
- Wounds and fissures
- Blistering conditions
How to use potassium permanganate?
The solution should be prepared for immediate use only. Wearing gloves is advisable when preparing the soak as it can stain your nails brown, but this does fade over time.
Dilute using warm water until a rose pink colour is obtained:
- 5% Potassium Permanganate – add 3mls of solution to 6 litres of warm water.
- Permatabs – 1 tablet to 4 litres of warm water.
The affected areas should be soaked with the solution for 10 minutes (goes brown) and your bath should be cleaned immediately after use to reduce the risk of staining.
Precautions
- Potassium permanganate can cause irritation if the dilution is not adequate.
- Potassium permanganate stains surfaces, baths, sinks, floors, carpets and clothing.
- When storing potassium permanganate store in a high or lockable cupboard out of reach of children.
Useful sources of information
British Association of Dermatologists (BAD)
For further information
Contact
For further information, you can contact the dermatology service.
Monday to Friday, 9am – 4pm (excluding Bank Holidays).
Medicines information patient helpline
Our medicines information helpline is for Newcastle Hospitals patients to answer questions they may have regarding their medicines.
Out-of-hours advice
Contact NHS 111 or visit your nearest urgent treatment centre.
