Based on rankings by pharmacists, Neosporin is considered the best cream for burns, achieving a perfect score of 100.
When dealing with minor burns, selecting the right over-the-counter treatment can aid in healing and provide relief. US News Health, in its 2024 rankings, evaluated various burn treatments, with Neosporin emerging as the top choice.
Here's a breakdown of the top-ranked burn creams:
| Rank | Brand | Active/Key Ingredients (sample product) | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Neosporin | Bacitracin Zinc, Neomycin Sulfate, Polymyxin B Sulfate | 100 |
| #2 | Dermoplast | Benzocaine, Menthol | 90 |
| #3 | A+D | Lanolin, Petrolatum | 56 |
| #4 | Polysporin | Polymyxin B Sulfate, Bacitracin Zinc | 50 |
Top-Ranked Burn Treatments Explained
- Neosporin (Score: 100): As the top-ranked option, Neosporin contains a combination of antibiotics—Bacitracin Zinc, Neomycin Sulfate, and Polymyxin B Sulfate. These ingredients are primarily known for preventing infection, which is crucial for burn care. While not specifically a "burn cream" in the sense of cooling or pain relief, its focus on infection prevention makes it highly regarded for wound care, including minor burns.
- Dermoplast (Score: 90): Ranking second, Dermoplast focuses more on immediate symptom relief. Its key ingredients, Benzocaine (a local anesthetic) and Menthol (a cooling agent), work together to numb the pain and provide a soothing sensation to the affected area. This makes it particularly effective for addressing the discomfort associated with minor burns.
- A+D (Score: 56): This ointment primarily uses Lanolin and Petrolatum. These ingredients form a protective barrier over the skin, helping to moisturize and protect the wound, which can aid in the healing process by preventing dryness and irritation.
- Polysporin (Score: 50): Similar to Neosporin, Polysporin also contains antibiotics—Polymyxin B Sulfate and Bacitracin Zinc. It serves a similar purpose of preventing infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, making it a reliable option for basic wound care.
For comprehensive details on these and other treatments, you can refer to the 8 Best Burn Creams, Ranked by Pharmacists 2024 - US News Health. Always consult a healthcare professional for severe burns or if you have concerns about a burn injury.
