Which topical agent is commonly used for minor burns but should be avoided on the face due to staining?

Which topical agent is commonly used for minor burns but should be avoided on the face due to staining?

• A. Bacitracin
• B. Silvadene
• C. Triple antibiotic ointment
• D. Neomycin

Answer: (B)

Silver sulfadiazine is commonly used for minor burns due to its broad antimicrobial activity, but it often leaves a gray‑blue to brown discoloration of the skin. This staining is particularly undesirable on the face, where appearance matters, so it’s avoided there. The other topical agents listed don’t cause this staining, though neomycin can cause allergic dermatitis.

Silver sulfadiazine is commonly used for minor burns due to its broad antimicrobial activity, but it often leaves a gray‑blue to brown discoloration of the skin. This staining is particularly undesirable on the face, where appearance matters, so it’s avoided there. The other topical agents listed don’t cause this staining, though neomycin can cause allergic dermatitis.