Why is Neosporin no longer recommended?

Author: Darrell Miller  |  Last update: Thursday, April 10, 2025

Neomycin frequently causes allergic reactions of the skin called contact dermatitis. It can cause the skin to become red, scaly, and itchy. The more Neosporin you use, the worse the skin reaction gets.

What do dermatologists recommend instead of Neosporin?

The most common is a triple antibiotic. Bacitracin is a single antibiotic ointment. POLYSPORIN® is the #1 dermatologist recommended for infection protection.

Why do doctors not want you to use Neosporin?

Neosporin can cause allergic contact dermatitis, hence not advised routinely.

Is there a better ointment than Neosporin?

For some wounds, bacitracin may work just as well as Polysporin or Neosporin. Your healthcare professional can let you know if your wound requires treatment with more than one antibiotic. It's also good to keep any allergies and sensitivities in mind when choosing an antibiotic ointment.

What to use instead of Neosporin?

Alternatives. Petroleum jelly products, such as Vaseline, can be good alternatives to bacitracin or Neosporin. The jelly keeps wounds from drying out, which can prevent or ease itching and other unpleasant symptoms.

Is Vaseline better than Neosporin for wounds?

Triple antibiotic ointments, such as Neosporin have long been the go-to options for treating and disinfecting minor cuts and wounds. However, the medical community has shifted to urge people to make the switch to using plain ol' petroleum jelly instead.

What ointment is best for wound healing?

Ointments for Wound Care
  • Bacitracin. Bacitracin can be found in just about every over-the-counter antibiotic ointment on the market. ...
  • Bacitracin and Polymyxin B (Polysporin) The common brand name for this medication is Polysporin. ...
  • Bacitracin, Polymyxin B, and Neomycin (Neosporin)

What is the best cream for a bacterial skin infection?

Mupirocin Cream or Ointment. Mupirocin ointment is a medication that treats bacterial skin infections. It prevents bacteria growth and kills existing bacteria on your skin. You can rub this medication on your affected skin.

Where should you not use Neosporin?

Unless instructed by your healthcare provider, you should never use Neosporin or other antibacterial ointments on:
  • A surgical wound.
  • Any large area of skin.
  • Deep cuts or wounds.
  • Large burns.
  • Skin infections caused by a fungus or a virus.
  • Skin that's dry or cracked from winter weather.

What is the downside to Neosporin?

Burning, redness, or irritation of the skin may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

Does a wound heal faster, covered or uncovered?

Wounds need to be covered so that they can heal properly. When a wound is left uncovered, the new surface cells that are being created can easily dry out. When these important cells dry out, it tends to slow down the healing process. A wound should be covered using a clean bandage.

Does Vaseline help heal wounds?

Studies show that petroleum jelly is just as effective as an antibiotic ointment for non-infected wounds. Don't douse a minor wound with antiseptics like iodine or hydrogen peroxide. They're actually harmful to the skin and can delay healing.

Why do dermatologists dislike Neosporin?

So why do we dermatologists in Naples, FL—and around the country—despise this product? It's the neomycin! Neomycin frequently causes allergic reactions of the skin called contact dermatitis. It can cause the skin to become red, scaly, and itchy.

What do dermatologists recommend for wound healing?

We recommend that you apply Aquaphor or Vaseline to a Band-Aid or Telfa pad (non-stick gauze) with tape. If you prefer not to use a band-aid, apply a thick coat of Vaseline or Aquaphor twice daily. Keep the wound covered with Aquaphor or Vaseline at all times until for 2 weeks.

Is Aquaphor good for cuts?

Different from a lotion or cream, this multi-purpose ointment protects and soothes extremely dry skin, chapped lips, cracked hands and feet, minor cuts and burns, and many other skin irritations, so you can get on with your day comfortably.

Why can't you use Neosporin on tattoos?

DON'T apply alcohol, Neosporin, Vaseline, or petroleum jelly (they can trap dirt and germs and cause infection). DON'T apply a heavy coat of lotion (remember the skin must breathe in order to heal).

Is Bag Balm the same as A and D ointment?

Best for: The ingredients in Bag Balm are pretty similar to A+D Ointment, with the addition of a mild antiseptic, meaning it's ideal for lips, hands, or feet that have open cracks or fissures that might become infected.

What kills bacteria on skin fast?

Both rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. (Photo Credit: ColleenMichaels/Dreamstime.) Rubbing alcohol is effective against bacteria such as E. coli and staph, killing them within 10 seconds.

How do I know if my rash is fungal or bacterial?

Skin infections caused by viruses usually result in red welts or blisters that can be itchy and/or painful. Meanwhile, fungal infections usually present with a red, scaly and itchy rash with occasional pustules.

What is the new hard to treat skin infection?

New, Difficult-to-Treat Fungal Skin Infections Are Emerging, Clinicians Warn. Two new forms of Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII and Trichophyton indotineae are emerging, according to a new report.

What is the yellowish fluid that oozes from the wound?

A wound that's healing can produce a clear or pink fluid. An infected wound can produce a yellowish, bad-smelling fluid called pus. When fluid seeps from a wound, it is called wound drainage.

What heals wounds so fast?

Wounds heal faster if they are kept warm. Try to be quick when changing dressings. Exposing a wound to the open air can drop its temperature and may slow healing for a few hours. Don't use antiseptic creams, washes or sprays on a chronic wound.

What cream makes wounds heal faster?

Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment can be used at any stage of the healing process on superficial open wounds and damaged skin. A moist healing environment has been clinically proven to aid and speed up the natural wound healing process.

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