Bepanthen First Aid Antiseptic Cream 100g: uses, directions and warnings
Upolife Editorial Team·
By Upolife Editorial Team. Reviewed October 23, 2026.
This guide is for readers in the United States. The product information below concerns the Australian Bepanthen First Aid Antiseptic Cream 100g formula. Emergency guidance in this article is for the United States.
What this product is—and what it is not
Bepanthen First Aid Antiseptic Cream 100g is a registered antiseptic medicine sponsored by Bayer Australia Ltd (TGA ARTG 131912). Its active ingredient is chlorhexidine hydrochloride 5.5 mg/g. According to the manufacturer, it is intended for the treatment and prevention of infection in minor cuts, wounds, abrasions, insect bites, and minor burns.
This is a first aid antiseptic, not a daily face cream or a substitute for a plain moisturizer. It should not be used as routine skin care. If you are looking for everyday barrier or hydration products, see our barrier care collection.
Active ingredient and full ingredient list
The manufacturer-confirmed active ingredient is chlorhexidine hydrochloride 5.5 mg/g. The full ingredient list as printed on the packaging is:
- Purified water
- Liquid paraffin
- White soft paraffin
- Dexpanthenol
- Cetyl alcohol
- Wool fat (anhydrous lanolin)
- PEG 40 stearate
- Stearyl alcohol
- Chlorhexidine hydrochloride
- Pantolactone
Dexpanthenol is listed among the inactive ingredients. No concentration for dexpanthenol is stated on the label, and none is claimed here. The cream is free from added colors and fragrances.
Manufacturer-stated uses
According to Bayer Australia and the product label, Bepanthen First Aid Antiseptic Cream is effective for:
- Treatment and prevention of infection in minor cuts and wounds
- Abrasions
- Insect bites
- Minor burns (first aid treatment only—see burn directions below)
Label directions for use
General wound use
- Wash your hands before treating the wound to help avoid introducing infection.
- Stop any bleeding. Minor cuts and scrapes generally stop on their own. If needed, apply gentle pressure with a clean bandage and, where possible, elevate the wound until bleeding stops.
- Clean the wound. Rinse the affected area with clean, lukewarm or cold water.
- Apply the cream. Apply Bepanthen First Aid liberally to the affected area, ensuring the cream completely covers the wound. Application may be repeated if necessary.
- Cover if appropriate. For protection from germs, use a plaster or dressing that does not stick to the wound.
Minor burns
- Cool the burn first. Immediately apply cold water for at least 20 minutes before applying the cream.
- Then apply Bepanthen First Aid cream to the cooled area.
- This product is for the first aid treatment of minor burns only. Seek medical advice for serious burns.
When to seek medical attention
The manufacturer advises seeing a doctor or healthcare professional if you notice any of the following:
- Signs of infection: increased pain, pus, swelling, or fever
- It has been more than 5 years since your last tetanus shot
- The burn is serious or covers a large area
- Mild skin irritation occurs and becomes severe—stop use
Important warnings
| Warning | Detail (per manufacturer label) |
|---|---|
| External use only | Avoid contact with eyes, ears, and mucous membranes. If contact with eyes occurs, rinse well with water. |
| Chlorhexidine allergy | Chlorhexidine can cause severe allergic reactions. Do not use if you have a known allergy to chlorhexidine. Seek immediate medical assistance if a reaction occurs. |
| Skin irritation | Mild irritation may occur. Stop use if irritation becomes severe. |
According to NHS guidance on chlorhexidine skin products, stop using the product and speak to a doctor if you develop a widespread skin rash.
Emergency symptoms: call 911 in the United States
Serious allergic reactions to chlorhexidine are extremely rare but can occur. Call 911 immediately in the United States if you or someone else experiences any of the following after applying the cream:
- Sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing or very rapid breathing
- A tight feeling in the throat or difficulty swallowing
- Sudden confusion, severe drowsiness, or dizziness
These may be signs of anaphylaxis and require immediate emergency treatment.
Check the exact Bepanthen formula
This guide concerns the Australian First Aid Antiseptic Cream 100g with chlorhexidine hydrochloride 5.5 mg/g. Always check the full product name and active ingredient on your package; a shared brand name does not make different products interchangeable.
Always read the label
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist or you are unsure whether this product is appropriate, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
What is the active ingredient in Bepanthen First Aid Antiseptic Cream 100g?
The active ingredient is chlorhexidine hydrochloride at a concentration of 5.5 mg/g, as confirmed by the manufacturer (Bayer Australia) and the TGA register (ARTG 131912).
Can I use Bepanthen First Aid Cream as a daily moisturizer or face cream?
No. This product is a registered antiseptic medicine intended for the treatment and prevention of infection in minor cuts, wounds, abrasions, insect bites, and minor burns. It is not formulated or indicated for use as a daily moisturizer or routine face cream.
What should I do for a minor burn before applying the cream?
According to the manufacturer label, you must immediately apply cold water to the burn for at least 20 minutes before applying Bepanthen First Aid cream. The product is for first aid treatment of minor burns only. Seek medical advice for serious burns.
What are the signs of a chlorhexidine allergic reaction and what should I do?
Mild reactions can include itchy, irritated, or red skin—stop use if irritation becomes severe. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare but can include sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, throat tightness, or sudden confusion and dizziness. If any of these occur, call 911 immediately in the United States and seek emergency medical treatment.
When should I see a doctor instead of treating a wound at home?
The manufacturer advises seeking medical attention if you notice signs of infection, including increased pain, pus, swelling, or fever; if it has been more than 5 years since your last tetanus shot; or if a burn is serious.
Sources
- Bayer Australia: Bepanthen First Aid Cream
- Bepanthen 100g: manufacturer information and label transcription hosted by Chemist Warehouse
- TGA: Bepanthen First Aid Antiseptic Cream, ARTG 131912
- NHS: side effects of chlorhexidine
- Bayer Bepanthen First Aid 100g: manufacturer packaging directions and warnings (original photograph)
- MedlinePlus (US): anaphylaxis emergency care
For general information only; not medical advice. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and warnings for the exact product. Read our editorial policy.
