Whenever you get a cut or a scrape, you need to clean and then protect the open wound so that it can heal properly. Cleanse and sanitize the wound without getting infected from dirt and germs that may be still in the cut. While using a disinfectant may sting momentarily, it is important to clean the injury thoroughly so that it will heal properly and without a scar. There are a few different options for injury cleaning and protection, but which one is the best? The answer: It depends on the injury and the situation.
Povidone Iodine Wipes
What Is Iodine?
Iodine, also called povidone iodine, is a topical antiseptic and germicide to treat minor cuts, scrapes, burns, and abrasions. PVP wipes include Povidone Iodine 10% Citric Acid, Glyercin, Nonoxynol, Sodium Hydroxide, and water. Do not use this product if you are allergic to any of these substances.
Iodine wipes are an easy way to administer iodine to a wound or to sterilize an area. They can be used in the same way that alcohol wipes are.
With iodine wipes, you should be sure that the person is not allergic to iodine and be sure to not get it on clothing as it may stain. Iodine may sting as it disinfects.
For small cuts, iodine can be used quite effectively during the initial treatment of a minor laceration. Adults and those over 12 can use PVP wipes. Consult a doctor for children under 12. Clean the minor wound between one and three times a day, then protect the affected area with a sterile bandage.
What Is Neosporin?
Neosporin is a brand-name antibiotic ointment. It contains three antibiotics: neomycin, polymyxin B, and Bacitracin, which work in tandem to treat wounds and speed healing. The antibiotics in Neosporin work to kill any bacteria that may be in the wound. It can be applied during the initial treatment and can be continually applied to help facilitate healing when the dressings are changed throughout the healing process. For ongoing treatment as a cut or scrape heals, a triple antibiotic ointment is the best way to go.
So, What’s The Difference?
Both are antimicrobials.
Neosporin is an antibiotic, used to speed healing and wound treatment. Antibiotics can kill or prevent pathogens from growing.
In contrast, iodine is strictly an antiseptic to eliminate germs and is effective against a range of microorganisms. It is typically used to clean the skin.
For small cuts, Iodine can be used for initial treatment and disinfecting. For ongoing treatment, as a cut or scrape begins to heal, a triple antibiotic ointment is the best way to go.
Can You Use Iodine & Neosporin Together?
Yes, they can be used together. Medical research has concluded that antibiotics and antiseptics can enhance bactericidal efficiency, dependent on the type of bacteria present. Most often, the use of an antiseptic and an antibiotic together are beneficial.
When you get a cut or a scrape, you need to clean and then protect the open wound so that it can heal properly. Iodine and Neosporin can both be used quite effectively during the initial treatment of a cut.
If you are using both, clean the skin with an antiseptic like Iodine, then apply an antibiotic ointment to stave off infection.
For ongoing treatment as a cut or scrape heals, a triple antibiotic ointment is the best way to go. However, use these sparingly as overuse can cause antibiotic resistance.
What If I Don’t Have An Antiseptic?
A third option for initial minor wound care does exist: good old fashioned mild soap and water. You can clean around the wound (after removing any debris such as dirt or debris) with soap and water. Often, soap and water will clean a wound sufficiently and if you then dress it with triple antibiotic ointment as well as some gauze or a bandage to protect it, you will have the best healing results.
As always, if you have a question about an injury or if an injury gets worse, it is always best to consult your doctor.
