How does Neosporin prevent bacterial skin infections?

Neosporin contains antibiotics that prevent skin infection by either stopping or slowing the growth of bacteria, explains WebMD. Applying the product to areas affected by scrapes, burns or cuts makes healing faster.

Patients should use Neosporin on skin only and as directed by their doctors, stresses WebMD. If this medication gets in the mouth or eyes, the patient should wipe it and rinse with water.

Patients should wash their hands before using Neosporin, and should consult their doctor before applying it over large areas of the body, advises Drugs.Com. It is also important for them to tell their doctors if they are breastfeeding, pregnant, have allergies or are taking other prescriptions.