While some people will clean a wound with alcohol most people choose to use hydrogen peroxide because it does not burn. However, if it gets absorbed into the skin it can actually cause more harm than good. Peroxide is made up of hydrogen and oxygen.

Does hydrogen peroxide hurt when you put it on a cut?

Using hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol to clean an injury can actually harm the tissue and delay healing. The best way to clean a minor wound is with cool running water and mild soap. Rinse the wound for at least five minutes to remove dirt, debris, and bacteria.

When peroxide bubbles does it mean infection?

While not necessarily a “mistake”, a common misconception is that if hydrogen peroxide bubbles, it means your wound is infected. Hydrogen peroxide will bubble whether your wound is infected or not. A chemical reaction occurs while cleaning and creates little oxygen bubbles. Don't sweat over the bubbles.