Chlorhexidine is used in disinfectants (disinfection of the skin and hands), cosmetics (additive to creams, toothpaste, deodorants, and antiperspirants), and pharmaceutical products (preservative in eye drops, active substance in wound dressings and antiseptic mouthwashes). Chlorhexidine gluconate is availabe as an implant to treat periodontal disease. Used to clean skin after injury and as a surgical preparation.