Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG) is a cationic bisbiguanide molecule that has been the global standard for skin antisepsis since the 1950s. Unlike alcohol, which evaporates within seconds, CHG binds to keratin proteins in the outer layer of the skin and continues working for hours after application — a property known in the clinical literature as substantivity. At a concentration of 2.5%, EMGUARD® Hand Rub occupies a rational point of balance: high enough to kill 99.9% of pathogenic hand germs, yet gentle enough to be used dozens of times a day without damaging the skin barrier.
Chlorhexidine Gluconate works through an electrostatic interaction between the positively charged molecule and the negatively charged surface of microbial cells. Once bound, damage occurs across several layers of the cell structure — and, what sets it apart from other antiseptics, the molecule remains active after water and solvents have evaporated.
The positively charged CHG molecule interacts with the negatively charged phospholipids and lipopolysaccharides on the surface of bacterial cells. This is the biological recognition step that makes CHG selective for microbes rather than human skin.
At low concentrations CHG increases the permeability of the cell membrane. At disinfection concentrations such as 2.5%, the membrane is structurally damaged — intracellular components leak out and the microbial cell collapses rapidly.
After entering the cell, CHG binds to nucleic acids and cytoplasmic proteins, causing coagulation and precipitation of the intracellular material. The microbe's metabolic processes halt and the cell can no longer repair itself.
CHG binds to keratin proteins in the stratum corneum and remains active for 3–6 hours after application. This is the primary clinical reason CHG is chosen for surgical scrub, venous catheterization, and pre-surgical skin preparation — its protection does not disappear when gloves are put on.
Formulated to target the transient flora on the hands — the germs that travel by touch and are the leading cause of infection transmission in healthcare facilities, schools, offices, and public transport.
Highly active against Gram-positive bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus (also MRSA), Streptococcus pyogenes, and Enterococcus spp. Also effective against Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are frequent causes of nosocomial infections.
Effective against viruses with a lipid envelope: SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A & B viruses, Herpes Simplex, RSV, and HIV. The primary action is through disruption of the lipid envelope, so virus particles can no longer attach to host cells.
Active against pathogenic skin yeasts including Candida albicans and common dermatophytes. Important for healthcare workers, food handlers, and elderly care staff who deal with immunocompromised patients.
A technical summary of EMGUARD® Hand Rub Antibacterial ready to share with your IPC team, housekeeping, or procurement committee — covering efficacy claims, available packaging, and the safety profile on a single page.
The clinical literature positions Chlorhexidine Gluconate at several concentrations with different functions: 0.5% for mucosal antiseptics, 2% for intravenous catheter preparation, and 4% for pre-operative surgical scrub. EMGUARD chose 2.5% w/v as the balance point for a daily hand rub — strong enough to kill 99.9% of germs in 15–30 seconds, yet gentle enough for repeated use throughout a shift without drying or irritating the skin.
Unlike 70% alcohol-based hand rubs, which evaporate and lose their effect as soon as the skin is dry, the CHG 2.5% formulation delivers a residual antimicrobial effect — protection that keeps working for hours after application. This is the rational choice for healthcare workers who perform hand hygiene dozens of times per shift.
Designed for scenarios where access to soap and water is limited — yet hand hygiene remains decisive for health, for both patients and users.
Following the WHO's Six Steps of Hand Hygiene principle, which has become the global standard. Consistent technique — not a large amount of product — is the true determinant of results.
Dispense 3–5 ml (about one full pump press) onto dry palms. There is no need to rinse with water beforehand — the formula works directly on the skin.
Rub palm to palm, then the backs of the hands, between the fingers, fingertips, and thumbs. Ensure the entire skin surface is evenly wet — including frequently missed areas such as the base of the nails.
Continue rubbing for 15–30 seconds or until the hands are completely dry naturally. Do not wipe with a tissue — evaporation is part of the antiseptic's working process.
CHG will keep working on the skin layer for the next 3–6 hours. There is no need to reapply every minute — use it at critical moments: before and after contact with patients, food, or public surfaces.
Technical details ready to attach to procurement documents, IPC evaluations, or your facility's formulary.
EMGUARD® Hand Rub Antibacterial is formulated for external use on the skin of the hands and can be used by adults as well as children under supervision. A few clinical limitations still need to be kept in mind.
Must not be swallowed, not applied to deep open wounds, and not used as a substitute for soap to clean visibly soiled organic matter.
Chlorhexidine is not intended for mucous membranes or the middle ear. In case of contact with the eyes, rinse immediately with running water for 15 minutes and contact a medical professional if irritation persists.
Hypersensitivity reactions to CHG are rare but have been documented. Stop using and consult a doctor if persistent redness, itching, or swelling appears.
Chlorhexidine is cationic — its efficacy is reduced when mixed with anionic soaps (most household soaps). Rinse off soap residue before application, or use on hands that are already dry.
For children under 2 years of age, use under adult supervision. Make sure the dispenser is placed at a height that is safe from the risk of ingestion.
Clean hands are the only medical intervention that everyone — from a surgeon to a mother — can perform every day. We designed EMGUARD® Hand Rub Antibacterial for exactly those moments: before holding a baby, before touching a patient, before eating with the family. Simple, but it works every single time.
Our technical team is ready to explain the safety profile of Chlorhexidine Gluconate, provide MSDS, efficacy test certificates, and dispenser recommendations suited to your facility's SOP — from a small clinic to a hospital network.