What is the Difference Between Polysporin and Neosporin?

Polysporin and Neosporin are both over-the-counter antibiotic ointments used to prevent infection and encourage healing in minor cuts, bruises, and burns. They have some differences in their ingredients, which can impact their usage and effectiveness:

1. Ingredients: Polysporin contains bacitracin zinc and polymyxin B sulfate, while Neosporin contains bacitracin zinc, polymyxin B sulfate, and neomycin sulfate. Neomycin is not present in Polysporin.
2. Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to neomycin, making Polysporin a potential alternative for those individuals. Allergy to polymyxin and bacitracin is very uncommon.
3. Usage: Both Polysporin and Neosporin can be used to treat minor skin infections of abrasions, scrapes, first-degree burns, and stitched surgical wounds. However, for facial applications, Polysporin is often recommended over Neosporin due to its lower likelihood of causing an allergic reaction.

Both ointments can be applied to the affected area 1 to 3 times a day. It is essential to consult a doctor or healthcare professional if the condition persists or worsens, or if a rash or other allergic reaction develops.

Comparative Table: Polysporin vs Neosporin

The main difference between Polysporin and Neosporin lies in their ingredients. Here is a summary of their differences in a table:

Both Polysporin and Neosporin are over-the-counter antibiotic ointments used to treat and prevent infections in minor wounds, such as cuts, scrapes, and burns. However, Polysporin does not contain neomycin, making it a potential alternative for people who are allergic to neomycin.