Why hydrogen peroxide bubbles in a wound

Third, peroxide acts as a sporicide, killing potentially infectious fungal and bacterial spores. The reason is because peroxide also kills fibroblasts, which are a type of connective tissue the body uses to repair injuries. Peroxide slows heal and increases the risk of scarring. Some people use hydrogen peroxide as an aid to remove excess ear wax cerumen. However, the reaction leaves warm water in the ears, which acts as a breeding ground for bacteria unless it is displaced with another chemical, such as alcohol.

If a person has a ruptured eardrum, peroxide can worsen the situation. The best uses of hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant are for cleaning surfaces, disinfecting surgical instruments, and treating acne. Peroxide both disinfects and bleaches blood stains.

Gargling or rinsing with hydrogen peroxide whitens teeth and helps reduce gum inflammation and plaque. Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph. Chemistry Expert. Helmenstine holds a Ph. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.

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We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Try putting a little hydrogen peroxide on a cut potato and it will do the same thing for the same reason -- catalase in the damaged potato cells reacts with the hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide does not foam in the bottle or on your skin because there is no catalase to help the reaction to occur.

Hydrogen peroxide is stable at room temperature. Sign up for our Newsletter! Mobile Newsletter banner close. Mobile Newsletter chat close. Mobile Newsletter chat dots. Mobile Newsletter chat avatar.