What Is NEOSPORIN^® And What Is It Used For?

Discover everything you need to know about NEOSPORIN® ointments and creams with our helpful guide.

What Is NEOSPORIN^®?

NEOSPORIN^® is the number-one doctor recommended brand of topical antibiotic in the US. As with other topical antibiotics, it's typically used to treat skin infections and protect wounds from potential infection^1,2.

NEOSPORIN^® products treat minor wounds such as scrapes, cuts and light burns. Products are also available to help minimize the appearance of scars, soothe pain and heal chapped lips.

Common Uses of NEOSPORIN^®

Burns

NEOSPORIN^® Burn Relief antibiotic ointment protects burns against infection and helps relieve the pain of your burn. Simply apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area and let it soak into the skin.

Cuts and scrapes

NEOSPORIN^® Original Ointment offers minor cuts and scrapes 24-hour protection from infection, thanks to its effective germ kill formula. It is also made with Heliderm Technology, which provides a nourishing environment for skin during the healing process.

Pain relief

NEOSPORIN^® Pain Relief Cream, and Ointment are all designed to help soothe the pain of minor wounds, cuts and scrapes. Both products provide maximum pain relief and soothing infection protection, making them a great addition to your first aid kit.

Scars

NEOSPORIN^® + Pain, Itch, Scar can help minimize the appearance of scars and provide a nourishing environment for the skin around your wound while protecting fresh wounds from infection.

When not to use NEOSPORIN^®

NEOSPORIN^® is designed for external use only¹. Do not take it by mouth or use it inside your nose¹.

Our products are also not designed to treat deep cuts, puncture wounds, animal bites, severe burns, or to be used over large areas of your body¹. You should speak to your doctor or seek emergency medical help if you have any of these types of injuries as you may need more treatment¹.

You should also stop using NEOSPORIN^® and call your doctor if your symptoms do not disappear within one week of using your chosen product¹.

You should not apply NEOSPORIN^® to a child’s diaper area, especially if the surface of the skin is broken or raw¹.

How To Use NEOSPORIN^®

Check the expiration date. Do not use expired product
Always follow the instructions on the label¹
Wash your hands before and after using NEOSPORIN^®1
Apply a thin layer of your chosen NEOSPORIN^® to the affected area¹ 1 to 3 times daily
Keep out of reach of children

Active Ingredients in NEOSPORIN^®

Neomycin
Polymyxin
Bacitracin

The three active NEOSPORIN^® ingredients combine to stop bacteria from growing². As a result, they help to prevent infection around a wound site².

NEOSPORIN^® Side Effects and Warnings

Some of the most common side effects of using NEOSPORIN^® are the typical signs of irritation, including³:

Itching
Skin rashes
Redness
Swelling

Is NEOSPORIN^® safe for dogs and cats?

We know how well NEOSPORIN^® First Aid Antibiotics work for you, but we can’t recommend using our products on animals⁴. Please contact your veterinarian instead.

FAQs

Does NEOSPORIN^® expire?

Yes, NEOSPORIN^® products expire. Check expiry dates on the product packaging and do not use past this point. If your product has expired, dispose of it and buy a fresh alternative.

How often should I apply NEOSPORIN^®?

You can use NEOSPORIN^® up to three times a day on the same wound.

Can I use NEOSPORIN^® for babies?

You should not apply NEOSPORIN^® to a child's diaper area, especially if the skin is broken or raw². If your doctor suggests applying NEOSPORIN^® to a child’s diaper area, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants after applying the cream². We also have a child-specific NEOSPORIN^® cream to help with first-aid pain relief².

References

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What Is NEOSPORIN^® And What Is It Used For?