Studies were carried out to detect the modifications, if any, on the peri-umbilical flora of six healthy volunteers after two or three daily applications of Hexomedine solution (HEX) and Betadine solution (PVI) repeated for five consecutive days. A standardized scrubbing method was used for bacterial sampling. Surviving bacteria were selected with both selective and non-selective media, and then identified by gas chromatographic fatty acid analysis. Both antiseptics were highly effective, showing both immediate and residual antimicrobial activities. The use of HEX led to a slight increase in Gram-positive cocci and a small decrease in coryneforms, but PVI produced a marked increase in Gram-positive cocci and a sharp decrease in coryneforms. The two antiseptics, however, caused no major alteration in the cutaneous microbial population. Indeed, neither the overgrowth of Gram-negative bacilli nor the emergence of resistant species was observed.