Phenylmercuric acetate serves as contraceptive gel and foam, injectable solution, skin disinfectant and in cosmetic products such as hair shampoos, mouthwashes and toothpastes. It is likewise used in preservative in canned paint, eye creams and drops. It acts as a catalyst in polyurethane systems. It is also used as a catalyst in the 3M tartan brand polyurethane flexible floors that were common in school gymnasiums. It acts as an antitranspirant, when applied to the plants leaves.

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.