Scrape your toe? Cut your finger while cooking? You might be tempted to reach for that handy tube of Neosporin in your bathroom cupboard to soothe the pain and prevent infection, but there’s a dermatologist out there who’s preaching otherwise.
In a TikTok that has more than 1.6 million views, Dr. Shereene Idriss (@shereeneidriss) sends out a PSA from her local CVS pharmacy about the potential risks of Neosporin and offers a hopeful alternative.
“The antibiotic Neosporin (also known as neomycin) is not a cure-all for cuts, wounds and acne,” says Dr Idris, scanning the ointment aisle.
Dr Idris added that Neosporin users “are at higher risk of experiencing allergic reactions, irritation or developing new allergic reactions” especially if they “overuse it.”
She instead said, “Much better.” CVS Health Bacitracin OintmentHe described the product as “pure,” “simple,” and “far better value for money, especially if you have cuts or wounds on your face.”
“Bacitracin is Staphylococcus aureus” ” the dermatologist points out.[It is] It is less likely to cause any kind of irritation or allergic reaction.”
Is Bacitracin really good?
Dr Idris is clear which ointment is the “seal of approval” for minor cuts, wounds and burns, but evidence shows both products have pros and cons. HealthlineBacitracin is named after its only active ingredient, while Neosporin contains three ingredients: neomycin, bacitracin, and polymyxin b. As Dr. Idris mentioned, neomycin carries a higher risk of allergic reactions, and it can also cause skin irritation and redness in some users.
While both ointments stop the growth of bacteria, Neosporin also kills existing bacteria. What’s more, Neosporin fights a broader range of bacteria than bacitracin.
Aside from the bacitracin vs. Neosporin debate, some dermatologists also warn against using any kind of antibiotic ointment. Bloomberg All of the active ingredients in topical ointments have been reported to have the potential to cause allergic reactions, and both neomycin and bacitracin have been named allergens of the year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society.
Furthermore, a 2021 study found Neosporin may actually slow down wound healing because it may also kill healthy bacteria that aid in the healing process.
Many dermatologists recommend using petroleum jelly on wounds instead of applying antibiotics. PM Pediatrics Reports suggest that all of the inactive ingredients in antibiotic ointments are petroleum. By eliminating the antibiotics, which can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, and instead using the healing properties of petroleum (such as moisturizing wounds, a key facilitator of healing), consumers may be able to achieve a more effective healing process.
Follow Why I Hate Neosporin and What to Use Instead #skincaretips #Skin Tips #Wound care #Neosporin #pharmacy #skinhack #Dermatologist #ShellyNeidris #Dridris Shereen Idris ♬ Original Sound – ShereeneIdriss
Despite the potential risks, viewers of Dr Idris’ videos have been raving about their chosen ointments in the comments section.
“I used Neosporin growing up and never had a problem. After I had major surgery last year, my doctor recommended Bacitracin for an allergic reaction to medical glue so I’m sticking with it now. Great product,” one viewer wrote.
“As someone who was allergic to Neosporin and had an awkward childhood dodging well-meaning school nurses, I feel so vindicated now,” said another viewer.
“I’m going to keep using Neosporin,” another viewer chimed in, adding, “It works for me.”
“Doctor told me to only use Vaseline,” another wrote.
“I used Neosporin on a cut and it gave me contact dermatitis and caused several blisters on my hands,” a fifth person said.
The Daily Dot reached out to Dr. Shereen Idris and Neosporin via email for more information.
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Tansy Mitchell
Tansy Mitchell is a New York-based creative writer, journalist, and editor whose interests include pop culture, entertainment, poetry, and morning herbal tea.
