Topical antibiotic ointments commonly list bacitracin (often as bacitracin zinc), neomycin (neomycin sulfate), and polymyxin B (polymyxin B sulfate) as the active antibiotic ingredients.
Topical antibiotic treatments are typically available as creams and ointments.
Product directions commonly advise applying a small amount to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily. Always follow the specific instructions on your product label.
Common options include travel/mini sizes (about 0.5 ounce) and larger tubes (around 1 ounce); some listings explicitly note TSA-friendly 0.5-ounce travel sizes.
Labels commonly warn to keep the product out of reach of children and note a risk of eye irritation. Some products state age limits—for example, not for children under age 2—while others specify suitability for children aged 2 and up.
First-aid ointments commonly use triple-antibiotic combinations (bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B sulfate) and dual combinations such as bacitracin zinc plus polymyxin B sulfate; some dual formulas are marketed as neomycin-free.
