1. A synthetic antimicrobial compound formerly used in soaps, cosmetics, and disinfectants to kill bacteria and prevent infection.
Usage: chemistry; medicine; largely discontinued in many countries due to health concerns

Examples

• Hexachlorophene was widely used in antibacterial soaps during the mid-20th century.
• The FDA restricted the use of hexachlorophene in consumer products after safety studies raised concerns.
• Hospitals once relied on hexachlorophene for surgical scrubs and skin antisepsis.
• Hexachlorophene is still used in some medical and veterinary applications under strict regulation.
• The chemical structure of hexachlorophene contains six chlorine atoms bonded to a benzene ring.