Is Dyna-Hex 4 the same as Hibiclens? A Comprehensive Guide to These Antiseptic Cleansers

October 8, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 40 years of medical practice has established 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) as a trusted and effective antiseptic agent in preventing surgical site infections. When considering a topical antiseptic, many ask, Is Dyna-Hex 4 the same as Hibiclens? While they contain the same active ingredient at the same concentration, subtle differences in formulation and branding set them apart.

Quick Summary

Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens share the same active ingredient, 4% chlorhexidine gluconate, and are both used for antiseptic skin cleansing. The primary distinction is that Hibiclens is a long-standing brand name, while Dyna-Hex 4 is a generic equivalent. Their therapeutic effects are comparable, but inactive ingredients may vary, potentially affecting cost or causing mild skin reactions.

Key Points

Active Ingredient: Both Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens contain the same active ingredient, 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG).
Therapeutic Equivalence: As generic and brand-name versions of the same product, they are therapeutically equivalent, meaning they have the same antiseptic effects.
Brand vs. Generic: Hibiclens is a brand-name product, while Dyna-Hex 4 is its generic equivalent, produced by a different manufacturer.
Similar Uses: Both are indicated for surgical hand scrubs, healthcare personnel handwashing, patient pre-operative skin preparation, and general skin cleansing.
Differences in Inactive Ingredients: Minor inactive ingredients, like fragrances or dyes, may differ between the two products, which could affect cost or cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Cost Difference: Due to its status as a generic, Dyna-Hex 4 is often more affordable than the brand-name Hibiclens.

Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) is a powerful antiseptic agent widely used in medical and surgical settings to reduce the risk of infection. Two of the most recognized over-the-counter products containing this substance are the brand-name Hibiclens and its generic competitor, Dyna-Hex 4. A closer look reveals they are therapeutically equivalent, though some non-active elements may differ. This guide breaks down the pharmacology, uses, and differences to help you make an informed choice.

The Active Ingredient: Chlorhexidine Gluconate 4%

At the core of both Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens is the active ingredient, 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG). This concentration is specifically formulated for skin cleansing applications, such as surgical hand scrubs and patient preoperative preparation.

How Chlorhexidine Gluconate Works

CHG works by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane, which leads to the leakage of the cell's contents and ultimately, cell death. Unlike traditional soaps, CHG also has a persistent, or residual, effect. This means it continues to inhibit the growth of microorganisms for several hours after it is applied, making it highly effective for sustained infection control.

Broad-spectrum efficacy: CHG is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some yeasts and fungi.
Persistence: It binds safely and non-stickily to the skin, creating a layer of antimicrobial protection that remains even after rinsing.
Fast-acting: The antiseptic properties begin to work on contact, reducing bacterial counts quickly.

Brand vs. Generic: Hibiclens vs. Dyna-Hex 4

The fundamental difference between the two products lies in their status as a brand name versus a generic. Hibiclens is a well-established brand manufactured by Mölnlycke Healthcare, trusted by medical professionals for decades. Dyna-Hex 4, manufactured by Xttrium Laboratories, Inc., is a generic version of the same medication.

Generic medications are required by the FDA to be therapeutically equivalent to their brand-name counterparts. This means they must contain the same active ingredient in the same concentration, be identical in strength and dosage form, and have the same intended use. For Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens, this means both contain 4% CHG and offer the same antiseptic action.

Potential Differences: Inactive Ingredients

While the active ingredient is identical, the inactive ingredients can vary between the brand-name and generic products. These may include differences in fragrance, dyes, surfactants, or preservatives. For most users, these differences are inconsequential. However, for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies, it is worth checking the list of inactive ingredients to avoid a potential reaction.

Hibiclens lists isopropyl alcohol and Red 40 among its inactive ingredients.
Dyna-Hex 4 also contains isopropyl alcohol but may use different dyes or fragrances.

In some cases, a person's skin might react differently to the inactive components, such as a different fragrance, leading to irritation. However, a study cited by the NIH on the comparison of four CHG-containing products, including Dyna-Hex and Hibiclens, found no significant differences in effectiveness, concluding all were satisfactory for clinical use.

Comparing Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens


Feature	Hibiclens (Brand Name)	Dyna-Hex 4 (Generic)
Active Ingredient	4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate	4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate
Concentration	4%	4%
Therapeutic Effect	Therapeutically equivalent to Dyna-Hex 4	Therapeutically equivalent to Hibiclens
Manufacturer	Mölnlycke Healthcare	Xttrium Laboratories, Inc.
Regulatory Status	OTC Antiseptic	OTC Antiseptic
Common Uses	Surgical scrub, healthcare handwash, patient pre-op prep, general skin wound cleansing	Surgical scrub, healthcare handwash, patient pre-op prep, general skin wound cleansing
Inactive Ingredients	May contain different fragrances, dyes (e.g., Red 40), and other excipients	May contain different fragrances, dyes, and other excipients
Availability	Widely available in pharmacies and online	Widely available in pharmacies and online
Pricing	Often higher priced than generic alternatives	Typically lower priced than brand-name options

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

For most people, the decision between Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens comes down to cost and personal preference. Because the active ingredient and concentration are identical, the therapeutic effect—the killing of germs—will be the same for either product. Here are some factors to consider:

Cost-effectiveness: If price is a primary concern, Dyna-Hex 4, as a generic, is likely the more affordable option.
Allergies or sensitivities: If you have a known sensitivity to fragrances or dyes, it is wise to compare the inactive ingredients listed on the packaging. Though rare, an allergic reaction to chlorhexidine itself is possible.
Availability: Both products are widely available at drugstores and online, so your choice may depend on which is stocked by your preferred retailer.
Familiarity: Many healthcare facilities standardize their antiseptic products. If you were instructed to use a specific brand for a surgical prep, your choice might be guided by that recommendation.

Conclusion

In short, the answer to the question, "Is Dyna-Hex 4 the same as Hibiclens?" is yes, in terms of their therapeutic effectiveness and active ingredient. Both products contain 4% chlorhexidine gluconate and are used for identical purposes, such as antiseptic skin cleansing and surgical preparation. The main distinctions lie in the branding, manufacturer, and potentially minor inactive ingredients. For consumers, this offers a cost-effective alternative without compromising on the antiseptic benefits. Always follow the specific product instructions and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or experience a severe allergic reaction.

For more detailed information on chlorhexidine and its uses, you can consult sources such as the FDA's DailyMed database, which contains labeling information for a wide range of medications, including HIBICLENS®.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary difference is their branding and manufacturer. Hibiclens is the well-known brand name, while Dyna-Hex 4 is a generic equivalent. They both contain the same active ingredient and are therapeutically interchangeable.

Yes, both products contain the same 4% chlorhexidine gluconate and are indicated for surgical hand scrubbing. You should follow the specific application instructions provided on the packaging for either product.

While the active ingredient CHG is the same, variations in inactive ingredients like fragrances or dyes could potentially cause minor skin irritation or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. Always check the ingredients if you have known sensitivities.

No, because both Dyna-Hex 4 and Hibiclens contain the same active ingredient (4% CHG) and are considered therapeutically equivalent by the FDA, there is no significant difference in their effectiveness as antiseptic cleansers.

Both products are formulated for antiseptic use and are generally considered safe when used as directed. The choice of product for daily use should consider potential sensitivities to inactive ingredients. Both carry the same warnings regarding severe allergic reactions.

Generic medications like Dyna-Hex 4 are typically less expensive than their brand-name counterparts like Hibiclens. This is because generic manufacturers don't bear the initial costs of drug research and marketing.

Yes, many manufacturers produce 4% chlorhexidine gluconate solutions under various brand names, such as Betasept, Exidine, and others. These are all therapeutically equivalent when used as directed.