What Is Bacitracin Zinc Ointment Used For?

Bacitracin zinc ointment is a medication that is used topically to avoid infection in small cuts on the skin. Bacitracin is an antibiotic (a germ-killer), and bacitracin zinc is mixed thoroughly with petroleum jelly to make a topical ointment.

Other Names

• There are many brand names for bacitracin zinc ointment, but they all fight infection the same way.

  Bacitracin zinc ointment goes by many different brand names. Some of these include: Bactine First Aid Antibiotic, Foille, Mycitracin, Neosporin Maximum Strength Ointment, Neosporin Ointment, and Topisporin.

Deeper Wounds

• Bacitracin zinc ointment should only be used on superficial wounds and minor burns.

  Bacitracin zinc ointment is made to fight infection in minor cuts, burns and skin irritations. It is not recommended for use on deep wounds or severe burns.

Abrasions

• Bacitracin zinc ointment only works on broken or abraded skin.

  Bacitracin zinc ointment does not have any healing properties on skin that is intact. The skin must be scraped or otherwise disrupted for the medicine to be absorbed and work as an antibiotic ointment.

Proper Use

• Apply a small amount of the ointment to a clean piece of gauze and apply directly to the damaged skin.

  Bacitracin zinc ointment is simple to apply. Squeeze a small amount of the ointment directly on a sterile piece of gauze, and then press the ointment-applied side of the gauze to the skin abrasion.

Side Effects

• Side effects with using bacitracin zinc ointment are very rare. One minor side effect that can occur is itching or other hypersensitivity to the ointment. If this does occur, simply discontinue use.