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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Astringent and Antiseptic?

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The main difference between astringent and antiseptic lies in their functions:

  • Astringent: Astringents are substances that can cause shrinkage or constriction of body tissues. They often have a drying action on the skin and can be used to remove excess oil or reduce blemishes. Some common sources of astringent substances include calamine lotion, witch hazel, and yerba mansa.
  • Antiseptic: Antiseptics are antimicrobial substances that can be applied to living tissues or skin to reduce infections in living tissues. They are used to inhibit or destroy the growth of microorganisms, which can help prevent infection and promote healing. Examples of antiseptics include hydrogen peroxide, iodine, and chlorhexidine.

In summary, astringents are used to shrink or constrict body tissues, while antiseptics are used to reduce infections in living tissues.

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  • What is the Difference Between Astringent and Antiseptic?
  • Comparative Table: Astringent vs Antiseptic

    • Comparative Table: Astringent vs Antiseptic

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between astringents and antiseptics:

    Astringent Antiseptic
    Causes shrinkage or constriction of body tissues Reduces infections in living tissues
    Common sources include calamine lotion, witch hazel, and yerba mansa Antimicrobial substances can be applied to living tissues or skin
    Examples of astringent substances: alum, acacia, sage, yarrow, bayberry, distilled vinegar Examples of antiseptics: hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, chlorhexidine, antibacterial dye, peroxide and permanganate, halogenated phenol derivative
    Can be found in products like calamine lotion and witch hazel Can be found in products used for treating skin infections, throat and mouth infections, and in surgical settings

    Astringents are substances that cause shrinkage or constriction of body tissues, while antiseptics are antimicrobial substances that reduce infections in living tissues.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.