Many people use Neosporin (neomycin, bacitracin, polymixin B) to treat cuts and scrapes. Neosporin is an antibacterial ointment that’s also sold under generic names such as triple antibiotic ointment, as it contains three powerful antibiotics. Because it’s so common, you might wonder if it can help with abscesses and lesions caused by hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).

If you need a topical antibacterial medication for hidradenitis suppurativa and you’re considering Neosporin, there are some things you should know. This will help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your skin condition.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Topical Antibacterial Medications

Doctors often recommended topical antibacterial creams or ointments for early stage hidradenitis suppurativa. These may be used alongside other treatments, like corticosteroids, medications that help shed and peel dead skin, or minor surgeries.

It’s important to work with a dermatologist to find the best treatment for you. They can create a plan tailored to your skin and needs. This plan may include over-the-counter products, prescription medications, or other therapies.

Is Neosporin Good for Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

While Neosporin is easy to find and can fight bacteria, it’s not always the best choice for HS. Some experts advise against it because it can cause allergic reactions. There’s also evidence that using topical antibiotics like Neosporin can contribute to antibiotic resistance. This happens when bacteria develop the ability to survive the medications meant to kill them.

Triple antibiotic ointments can cause a rash called allergic contact dermatitis. Symptoms include discolored or flaky skin. You might also develop small bumps that can itch, burn, and ooze fluid or even pus.

This kind of reaction can be uncomfortable anywhere on your body, but when it happens on top of hidradenitis suppurativa, it can make things much worse. That’s why healthcare providers usually recommend other topical antibiotics for HS instead of triple antibiotic ointments.

Real Life Experiences With Neosporin for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Some members of myHSteam have shared positive experiences with Neosporin.

“I use Neosporin. They have one for pain as well. It kind of numbs it,” one member said. Another added, “Once they drain or are still draining, I use Neosporin for a day or a two.”

Others want to use it even if their doctors advise against it. One member shared,“Personally, I think Neosporin is better, but doctors said it irritated my skin too much.”

If you’re considering using a triple antibiotic ointment, talk to your doctor about the potential risks, benefits, and whether there are better options for you.

Other Topical Antibiotics for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

There are a few topical antibiotics that doctors recommend for hidradenitis suppurativa. These can’t be purchased over the counter, however, so you’ll need to get a doctor’s prescription. Here’s what you should know about some common options:

Clindamycin

Clindamycin (Cleocin) is often the first choice for early-stage hidradenitis suppurativa. Most people tolerate it well, and it’s usually effective, especially at treating bumps near the surface of the skin. It’s less effective for deeper symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa, like tunnels (sinus tracts).

If your doctor prescribes clindamycin, it may come as a liquid or a lotion. Follow the directions on the bottle. Most people apply it to the affected areas twice a day. Let it soak into your skin for the best results.

Dapsone

Some doctors prescribe dapsone (Aczone) for hidradenitis suppurativa. While there’s not a lot of research on how well this antibiotic works, it’s often recommended. It may be more effective than clindamycin for moderate hidradenitis suppurativa.

Fusidic Acid

Fusidic acid (Fucidin) is another topical antibiotic that some doctors prescribe. In one study, it helped people with hidradenitis suppurativa when applied three times a day for four weeks. However, more research is needed to know how effective it is for most people. If other treatments don’t work for you, your doctor may have you try this medication to see if it helps.

Gentamicin

Gentamicin (Gentak, Garamycin) is usually prescribed for people with hidradenitis suppurativa who have had surgery to remove tunnels, lesions, or other affected tissues. This topical antibiotic helps surgical wounds heal and prevents sores related to the procedure. However, it doesn’t prevent hidradenitis suppurativa from returning in the same areas.

Your Treatment Plan for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Once you and your doctor create a medical treatment plan, it’s important to follow it closely. If you have questions or concerns, follow up with your doctor’s office. Staying on track with your plan can help you avoid flare-ups and manage your symptoms better.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myHSteam, the social network for people with hidradenitis suppurativa and their loved ones, more than 46,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with hidradenitis suppurativa.

Have you used Neosporin for hidradenitis suppurativa? Did it help you feel better? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.