Skin Wounds
Over the counter relief options
Wounded? find what is available to help!
Skin wounds occur when the outer layer of the skin is damaged by cuts, scrapes, burns, or friction, leaving the underlying tissue exposed and vulnerable. Everyday injuries—like kitchen accidents, falls, sharp objects, or rubbing from shoes—are some of the most common causes. Wounds can range from minor surface abrasions to deeper cuts that bleed or sting.
Because damaged skin loses its natural barrier, even small wounds can allow dirt and bacteria to enter, which is why proper cleaning and protection are essential. Early care helps reduce pain, prevent infection, and support faster, healthier healing.
For skin cuts, wounds and scrapes, there several over the counter products that help with recovery, from initial cleaning to covering with band aids, gauzes to applying topical antibacterials, and using pain medications to alleviate the pain if needed.​​​
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
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Hydrogen Peroxide
A mild antiseptic that helps loosen dirt, dried blood, and debris from small cuts and scrapes. It’s best used once at the beginning of wound cleaning because repeated use can irritate the skin and slow healing. After the first cleanse, switch to gentle soap and water for ongoing care.
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​Povidone Iodine​(Betadine®)
A broad-spectrum antiseptic effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It’s useful for cleaning deeper or contaminated cuts, scrapes, or wounds that might be exposed to soil or dirt. It may temporarily stain the skin and clothing, but it provides strong, reliable disinfection.
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Alcohol wipes
Convenient for disinfecting small cuts, cleaning intact skin before injections, or removing oils before applying adhesive bandages. They can sting and dry the skin, so they are not ideal for large, open, or sensitive wounds.
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Neosporin®
A triple-antibiotic ointment containing bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. It prevents bacterial infection and keeps wounds moist to support faster healing. Avoid if you have a known allergy to neomycin.
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Polysporin®
A double-antibiotic formula (bacitracin + polymyxin B) that excludes neomycin. It’s a good choice for people with neomycin allergies or sensitive skin while still offering infection protection.
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Bacitracin®
A single-ingredient antibiotic ointment ideal for those who want a simple formula. It provides a protective barrier, reduces infection risk, and is often gentler for sensitive skin.
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Bactine® Pain relieving /Cleansing Spray
Combines benzalkonium chloride (a non-stinging antiseptic) with lidocaine for pain relief. It’s a child-friendly option that cleans wounds without the burning sensation associated with peroxide or alcohol.
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Band Aids
Flexible strips that protect small cuts and scrapes from dirt, bacteria, and friction. Available in waterproof, hypoallergenic, and fabric options. They help maintain a moist, protected environment that speeds healing.
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Sterile gauze & non-stick pads
Ideal for larger wounds or areas with drainage. Gauze absorbs excess fluid, while non-stick pads prevent painful sticking to healing tissue. They can be secured with medical tape or wrap for added protection.
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Liquid bandages
A waterproof, breathable seal that closes small cuts and protects hard-to-bandage areas like knuckles, fingertips, or joints. They prevent bacteria from entering while allowing natural flexibility.
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First Aid Kits
All-in-one kits that include essentials like antiseptics, gauze, adhesive bandages, gloves, and burn gel packs. Helpful for homes, cars, workplaces, and outdoor activities to ensure quick access to basic wound-care supplies.
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​Ibuprofen (Advil®)
Helps manage pain, swelling, and inflammation from cuts, scrapes, or minor injuries. Always take with food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.
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Acetaminophen​​​​​​​(Tylenol®)
A gentler, non-NSAID pain reliever that reduces discomfort without affecting inflammation. Safe for people who cannot tolerate ibuprofen.
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For cleaning wounds:
Start with hydrogen peroxide or povidone-iodine for initial cleaning. Peroxide is less likely to sting; iodine may stain but offers broader antiseptic coverage. -
For very small cuts:
Alcohol wipes are convenient but can sting—use sparingly. -
For proper healing of larger or open wounds:
Apply an antibiotic ointment (Neosporin®, Polysporin®, or Bacitracin) and cover with an adhesive bandage, gauze, or a non-stick pad. -
For awkward areas like knuckles or fingertips:
Consider liquid bandages for better flexibility and waterproof protection. -
For pain management:
Choose ibuprofen for inflammation or acetaminophen if NSAIDs aren’t tolerated.
Seek medical care if:
The wound is deep, won’t stop bleeding, shows signs of infection (pus, spreading redness, heat), or isn’t healing as expected. Immediate care is needed for puncture wounds, animal bites, or wounds in people with diabetes.
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