For dirty wounds—with visible dirt and grit in them, first cleanse thoroughly with water and then with Neosporin or Bacitracin. Either should reduce your risk of infection, which occurs about 20 to 30 percent of the time. For minor cuts or scrapes or a not-too-severe burn, either product will work fine to kill infection-causing germs. Just be aware that both carry a small risk of allergic reactions; the risk is slightly less for bacitracin, found in Curad (and generic bacitracin products).

But if your wound is clean, your risk of infection is much lower, so you don’t really need any ointment at all. Our experts caution against the overuse of antibiotics—in any form—because that contributes to antibiotic-resistant strains of harmful bacteria.

If you have a minor cut, scrape, or burn, wash it with soap and warm water to clear out any visible grime and grit. Then cover it with a bandage and keep an eye on it. If you have a deep or severe cut, rinse it with water only, and head to an urgent-care center to see whether you need stitches. For a bad burn, go to an emergency room.