What is the main function of antiseptics as opposed to disinfectants?

Antiseptics serve a crucial role in medical and healthcare settings by being effective agents designed specifically for use on living tissue, such as skin or mucous membranes. This ability to be applied safely to living organisms differentiates them fundamentally from disinfectants, which are typically allocated for use on inanimate surfaces and objects.

The primary function of antiseptics is to reduce the risk of infection and microbial load when applied to wounds or during surgical procedures. By targeting and eliminating harmful microorganisms without causing injury to the tissue, antiseptics play a vital role in preventing infections.

In contrast, disinfectants generally possess stronger antimicrobial properties that would be too harsh for living tissues, making them unsuitable for direct application on skin or mucosa. The distinction emphasizes the safety and appropriateness of antiseptics for certain applications that disinfectants cannot fulfill.

Therefore, the effectiveness and safety profile of antiseptics in contexts involving living tissues underscore their primary function compared to disinfectants.