Good Health NC

QUESTIONS

Should I put Vaseline or antibiotic ointment on my stitches?

HomeQuestionsUrgent CareSuturing & Wound CareShould I put Vaseline or antibiotic ointment on my stitches?

Quick Answer

For most clean closed wounds at our Knightdale clinic we recommend plain petrolatum (Vaseline). Studies show petrolatum is as effective as antibiotic ointment at preventing infection in clean closed wounds, and it avoids the small risk of allergic contact dermatitis associated with neomycin and bacitracin. Petrolatum also keeps the wound moist, which improves healing and reduces scarring. We will tell you specifically if your wound is an exception.

This question comes up frequently for patients researching suturing & wound care at Good Health NC in Knightdale, NC.

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