Stinging Sensation
Antiseptic solutions can have a soothing or stinging effect, while others may feel as though they are burning. Hydrogen peroxide falls into the latter category. The disinfected area will often feel like it’s stinging with pins and needles. Alcohol also has a stinging sensation when applied to open wounds. However, the chemical reaction that causes alcohol and hydrogen peroxide to sting is different. Hydrogen peroxide can cause a “fizzing” sound when applied to wounds. The exact cause of the stinging sensation has not been fully documented. One study showed that the solution activated pain receptors on nerve cells. The TRPA1 pain receptor is activated when hydrogen peroxide or alcohol is used, while TRPV1 is activated with alcohol. Many of these pain receptors are similar in their structure and can be found within the same cell. TRPA1 tells individuals when they have been exposed by harmful chemicals to their skin. These include components such as hydrogen peroxide or tear gas.
Find out more about the side effects of hydrogen-peroxide.
