Most people tend to apply antiseptic or ointment as first aid at home when they get injuries in their daily lives. In this case, the type of ointment to put on varies depending on the type of wound, and the treatment method should be differentiated. Here’s what to look for when wondering which medicine would be appropriate for a specific wound and whether applying medicine would always be a solution for the recovery.
Povidone-iodine (Betadine Antiseptic Solution) for small areas, hydrogen peroxide for large areas
To take care of bleeding cuts and scrapes, put pressure on them with a clean towel or gauze. Once the blood clot, wipe the injury out using a povidone-iodine solution or hydrogen peroxide to prevent bacterial infection. The best case is putting povidone on a small spot since the solution can stain and cause scars. On condition that the section is wide, recommend using hydrogen peroxide.
Is inflammation involved in swelling with skin redness?
If the wound turns red, use an ointment containing madecassic acid or fusidic acid such as Fucidin and Madecassol. Use cautiously since the two ointments have slightly different characteristics, and antibiotic tolerance can occur. The suggested period of utilization is one week.
If pus comes out?
If pus comes out of the wound, liquid bandages are more effective than regular bandages. The liquid bandage absorbs the pus from the wound area, maintains an appropriate moist state, and helps quick recovery. Once the bandage has absorbed enough pus and becomes fluffy, replace it, but there is no need to replace it too frequently.
Fucidin VS Madecassol
The properties of Fucidin and Madecassol are slightly different from each other. Fucidin is particularly effective in preventing secondary infections and is suitable for use when there is a risk of bacterial infection. With its main ingredient, fusidic acid sodium, Fucidin has strong antibacterial properties and can quickly heal wounds without leaving scars. It can also penetrate deep into the skin and be used on scabs. On the other hand, Madecassol has a good skin regeneration effect. Its Centella asiatica ingredient aids in collagen synthesis, similar to normal skin, and promotes quick regrowth of new skin while preventing scarring.
Precautions when applying ointment
Before applying the ointment, washing your hands and cleaning the wound area thoroughly is important. When applying the ointment, a cotton swab or a similar applicator is recommended, and direct contact between the end of the container and the skin should be avoided. It is also advised to refrain from touching your eyes with your hands with skin ointment. If you experience a burning sensation, pain, itching, or any other discomfort after using the ointment, please immediately consult a doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, if you notice any worsening symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Precautions when dressing gauze
When changing a wet-to-dry dressing, be careful when removing previously attached gauze, as the newly growing tissue can be torn off, and the wound will eventually worsen. The dressing that wraps the wound area should maintain an appropriate moist state to effectively mend.
Avoid excessively using antibiotic ointment
Excessive application of antibiotic ointment is also not good. Silver sulfadiazine, often used for burns and other wounds, is included in antibiotic ointments. Although the research proves the effect of preventing infection, opposites claim that the recovery speed gets slower than moist dressing. Since side effects can occur, restrain putting on antibiotic ointment indiscreetly for a relatively clean wound without infection symptoms.
Store ointments properly
It’s important to store ointments in a place where children cannot reach them. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to record both the expiration date and the opening date. When applying ointments to children, it’s possible that applying a bandage or changing a diaper can increase drug absorption. It’s best to consult with a medical expert to determine the proper number of applications and amount of ointment. If an ointment becomes contaminated or discolored by bacteria, it must be disposed of immediately to avoid potential side effects.
Burn Injury
When you get a burn, you should watch the burn spot after cooling it sufficiently, and if blisters are observed, medical treatment is needed for burns of 2 degrees or more. Do not remove the bleb. Apply antibiotic ointment to the point of being moist, then dress it.
What if there’s a scar?
If you have a scar after an injury has healed, you should use a scar rather than a wound treatment. Scar treatments can make tissue softer and promote skin regeneration, which helps flatten the scar. Additionally, it can prevent pigmentation. It is recommended to apply scar treatment products once the wound has healed and the scab has fallen off.
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