PHMB works by binding to the bacterial cell membrane, causing complex reactions to alter the integrity of the wall. This allows entry of the PHMB, reducing wall strength and hence, death of the bacterium (Gilbert, 2006; Hubner and Kramer, 2010; McDonnell and Russell, 1999)
PHMB impregnated dressings may also help reduce pathogenic contamination of the underlying wound (Main, 2008).