Betadine® antiseptics are among the most effective antiseptics available, inactivating all known types of infecting organisms — bacteria, fungi and even viruses, The brown colour of Betadine® antiseptics shows the area that has been treated and also denotes the activity of the product. While it's brown, it's working. In most cases Betadine® antiseptics are non-irritating and non-stinging to the skin. They do not permanently stain the skin or natural fabrics and the treated areas may be bandaged, taped or otherwise covered.