Neosporin for Scar Removal
Neosporin is a popular antibiotic first aid ointment used on minor cuts, scratches, etc. According to the manufacturer, using Neosporin can help minimize the appearance of scars when the injury heals. Neosporin is easily available over the counter in most drug stores, supermarkets and anywhere else first aid supplies are sold.
Uses
Neosporin products are for first aid use only, such as on minor scrapes, cuts, burns and scratches. You should not use them on large or deep wounds and severe burns, which require a doctor's attention. In addition to soothing the wounded area, Neosporin works to minimize scarring and speed up healing time, according to the Neosporin website.
Application
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Before applying Neosporin, wash your your hands and remove any old medical dressings from the wound. Wash the affected area with soap and water to remove dirt, debris and old ointment, according to the Medical Center at Ohio State University 1. With your clean fingers, gently spread a thin layer of Neosporin over the entire wound. Wash your hands again, and then re-dress the wound.
- Before applying Neosporin, wash your your hands and remove any old medical dressings from the wound.
Infections
According to the Medical Center at Ohio State University, you should examine your wound for signs of infection before applying Neosporin 1. Signs of infection include a fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, fluid buildup under the skin, a foul smell or red, swollen and/or hot skin. If you exhibit any of these symptoms, contact your doctor and do not apply Neosporin to the affected area.
Warnings
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Consult your doctor if your wound condition becomes worse or if you have an allergic reaction such as swelling, itching, hives, blisters, redness, pain or burning sensation. You should also should not use Neosporin for more than one week unless you've spoken with a doctor.
Storage
Refer to the packaging of your Neosporin to find the stamped expiration date, and do not use it past this date To keep your Neosporin from going bad before the expiration date, keep it stored in a dry space at room temperature. Also keep the lid on tight; place it in a plastic bag or container if the lid becomes faulty or if a tear occurs.
Related Articles
References
- Medical Center at Ohio State University: Neosporin Ointment
- Heal CF, Banks JL, Lepper PD, Kontopantelis E, van Driel ML. Topical antibiotics for preventing surgical site infection in wounds healing by primary intention. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;11(11):CD011426. Published 2016 Nov 7. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011426.pub2
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- Smack DP, Harrington AC, Dunn C, et al. Infection and allergy incidence in ambulatory surgery patients using white petrolatum vs bacitracin ointment. A randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 1996;276(12):972-7. doi:10.1001/jama.1996.03540120050033
- Guo S, Dipietro LA. Factors affecting wound healing. J Dent Res. 2010;89(3):219–229. doi:10.1177/0022034509359125
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- Suzuki M, Yamada K, Nagao M, et al. Antimicrobial ointments and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus USA300. Emerg Infect Dis. 2011;17(10):1917–1920. doi:10.3201/eid1710.101365
Writer Bio
Wendy Rose Gould is a professional journalist who has contributed to "Glamour" magazine and the Huffington Post, among other publications. After internships at the "Indianapolis Business Journal," "Kiwanis International" and "NUVO Newsweekly," she earned BA degrees in journalism and philosophy from Franklin College in 2008. Gould specializes in lifestyle topics.