The Role of Antibacterial Ointments in Wound Care

Antibacterial ointments are topical products that contain ingredients to help prevent infection in minor cuts, wounds, and burns. They aid in protecting the skin and promoting healing.

Antibacterial Ointments FAQ

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What are antibiotic ointments?

Antibiotic ointments are medications that are applied topically — on the skin — to help kill bacteria. Healthcare professionals often use them to treat minor skin injuries such as scrapes, cuts, or burns. In fact, lots of people use antibiotic ointments to treat such minor injuries. Using antibiotic ointments is one part of caring for skin wounds.

Are antibiotic ointments effective?

Antibiotic ointments can help reduce the risk of infection, which is particularly important for people with weak immune systems. However, a 2018 meta-analysis found that these creams were barely more effective at preventing infection than a placebo.

What are topical antibiotics?

Topical antibiotics are antibiotics that have been manufactured into a cream or an ointment and can be applied directly to the skin. Antibiotics are medicines that destroy or inhibit the growth of susceptible bacteria.

What is an antibiotic ointment?

Ointments are creams and gels you can put on your skin to kill bacteria. They can be very effective sometimes. For example, if you have a rash or an infected cut, an ointment can help it heal. Antibiotic creams are not usually dangerous and are very effective if used at the right time.

Which ointment kills bacteria?

Ointments include Neosporin and polysporin, and antiseptics include peroxide and rubbing alcohol. Antiseptics do not usually kill bacteria; they only prevent them from multiplying. This can be effective, but antibiotics are stronger than antiseptics. Many antibiotics require a prescription, but you can get ointment without one.

How do you use antibiotic ointment?

First, clean and dry the skin where you intend to apply the antibiotic ointment. Apply a small amount of cream to the area each day. Add more cream one to three times a day. You can find a lengthy list of ointments (topical antibiotics) here. Both prescription and over-the-counter topical antibiotics are listed.