Ferric chloride is a “remedy” that has been used for a long time to stop minor bleeding. It is not necessarily good for the skin.
Ferric chloride, also known as iron(III) chloride, is a chemical compound that is sometimes used in medical settings to help stop bleeding. When applied to a wound, ferric chloride can aid in the process of hemostasis, which is the body’s natural mechanism to control bleeding.
It works by three possible mechanisms:
- Coagulation: Ferric chloride promotes coagulation, which is the formation of blood clots. When ferric chloride comes into contact with blood, it interacts with certain proteins and triggers a cascade of reactions that lead to the formation of a clot. The clot helps seal the damaged blood vessels, preventing further bleeding.
- Vasoconstriction: Ferric chloride also causes vasoconstriction, which is the narrowing of blood vessels. This constriction reduces blood flow to the injured area, which can help slow down or stop bleeding.
- Tissue sealing: Ferric chloride has an astringent effect, which means it can cause the tissues around the wound to contract and seal. This helps close off the blood vessels, reducing bleeding.