- #1
wasteofo2
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Just curious if antibiotics you might put on a band-aid over a wound that risks infection could kill/harm the skin cells around it.
Are antibiotics harmful to human skin cells?
In summary, neosporin can be hazardous to the skin if applied for longer than a week, and can induce neosporin dermatitis.
- #2
iansmith
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It will depend on the concentration and type of antibitiotic use. It is only consider an antibiotic if the concentration used does not harm the recipient. Then it becomes a toxin. 
If the concentration used is below the toxic level then no harm should be done to your cells.
If the concentration used is below the toxic level then no harm should be done to your cells.
- #3
wasteofo2
- 478
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Alright, thanks, it was just some neosporin, so I guess my skin cells won't go cancerous.
- #4
Moonbear
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The skin cells would have a greater risk of dying from the inflammatory response to infection than from an over-the-counter topical antibiotic.
And the top layer of skin is already dead cells. Inside the cut is the place where live cells would be exposed to the antibiotic.
And the top layer of skin is already dead cells. Inside the cut is the place where live cells would be exposed to the antibiotic.
- #5
Monique
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The antibiotic belongs to the aminoglycosides class, that binds to the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes and block the attachment of the 50S subunit to the initiation complex.
Although the eukaryotic ribosomes in the cytosol are relatively unaffected by these drugs, ribosomes in the mitochondria are sensitive to their effects (remember that mitochondria have a prokaryotic evolutionary history).
So the dose used will determine the effect.
Although the eukaryotic ribosomes in the cytosol are relatively unaffected by these drugs, ribosomes in the mitochondria are sensitive to their effects (remember that mitochondria have a prokaryotic evolutionary history).
So the dose used will determine the effect.
- #6
aychamo
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So the antibiotic is bacteria-static?
- #7
Monique
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Bacteriostatic? You'd think so (as with tetracyclin or chloramphenicol which also inhibit protein synthesis), but no, it is bactericidal :)
Apparently it can inhibit mRNA translation to protein, with the little translation occurring it causes misreading and thus nonsense peptides, but apparently there is also an effect on the membrane which becomes leaky that would explain the bactericidal nature of the antibiotic.
Apparently it can inhibit mRNA translation to protein, with the little translation occurring it causes misreading and thus nonsense peptides, but apparently there is also an effect on the membrane which becomes leaky that would explain the bactericidal nature of the antibiotic.
- #8
wasteofo2
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Gawd Dayum girl! Thanks for that explantion, I feel so filled with knowledge now!
- #9
adrenaline
Science Advisor
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neosporin if applied for longer than a week can induce neosporin dermatitis , a form of contact dermatitis and can actually excacerbate redness and prevent good tissue healing. It is notorious for it.
FAQ: Are antibiotics harmful to human skin cells?
1. Are antibiotics harmful to human skin cells?
Yes, antibiotics can be harmful to human skin cells. While antibiotics are designed to kill harmful bacteria, they can also disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin, which can lead to skin irritation and damage.
2. How do antibiotics affect human skin cells?
Antibiotics can affect human skin cells in a few different ways. They can disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin, leading to irritation and damage. They can also cause allergic reactions, which can damage the skin. In some cases, long-term use of antibiotics can also lead to antibiotic resistance, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections.
3. Can antibiotics cause skin rashes or other skin problems?
Yes, antibiotics can cause skin rashes and other skin problems. This is often due to the disruption of the skin's natural bacteria balance, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. Allergic reactions to antibiotics can also manifest as skin rashes or hives.
4. Are some people more susceptible to skin damage from antibiotics?
Yes, some people may be more susceptible to skin damage from antibiotics. Individuals with sensitive skin may be more prone to developing skin irritation or allergic reactions. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with autoimmune disorders, may also be more at risk for skin damage from antibiotics.
5. How can I protect my skin while taking antibiotics?
To protect your skin while taking antibiotics, it is important to maintain good skincare habits. This includes using gentle, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers, avoiding harsh chemicals or exfoliants, and using sunscreen daily. It is also important to follow the prescribed dosage and duration of antibiotics, and to talk to your doctor if you experience any skin reactions or concerns.