How do antiseptics work?

Answer:
Antiseptics, such as alcohol, don't actually kill bacteria but usually prevent them from growing/reproducing. They change the environment and reduce the "food" supply. Other antiseptics can destroy bacteria by attacking their cell membrane.
First answer by ID1051444742. Last edit by WannaB-PharmD. Contributor trust: 4 [recommend contributor recommended]. Question popularity: 38 [recommend question].