POLYFAX PLUS SKIN OINTMENT 20GM 1S Uses, And Price In Pakistan

Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment is a trusted topical antibiotic used to prevent and treat bacterial skin infections. This detailed guide covers everything from its active ingredients and proper application to its price in Pakistan and how it compares to alternatives like Neosporin. Whether you’re dealing with a minor cut, burn, or acne, understanding this ointment ensures safe and effective use.

In this article, you will learn:

• The specific uses and benefits of Polyfax Plus for wounds and burns.
• A detailed breakdown of its active ingredients and how they work.
• How to correctly apply the ointment for maximum effectiveness.
• The latest price information and purchasing options in Pakistan.
• Important safety information, including side effects and contraindications.

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What is Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment?

Polyfax Plus is a broad-spectrum antibiotic ointment designed for topical application on the skin. It is primarily used as a first-line defense against bacterial infection in minor wounds, cuts, scrapes, and burns. The “Plus” in its name often signifies its potent combination of two antibiotics, which work synergistically to create a wider protective shield against various bacteria. It is classified as a topical antimicrobial prophylactic, meaning its main goal is to prevent infection from starting in vulnerable skin breaks. This over-the-counter (OTC) medication is a staple in many household first-aid kits and clinical settings for initial wound care management.

Polyfax Plus Active Ingredients and How They Work

The efficacy of Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment stems from its two powerful active ingredients: Bacitracin Zinc and Polymyxin B Sulfate. This combination is strategic, covering a broader range of bacteria than a single antibiotic could.

What is Bacitracin Zinc and how does it fight bacteria?
Bacitracin Zinc is a polypeptide antibiotic that works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall. Specifically, it inhibits the dephosphorylation of a lipid carrier that moves peptidoglycan precursors across the cytoplasmic membrane. This disruption prevents the bacteria from building a stable, rigid cell wall, leading to its death. It is particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species.

What is Polymyxin B Sulfate and how does it fight bacteria?
Polymyxin B Sulfate operates through a different mechanism. It is a polymyxin antibiotic that binds to the lipopolysaccharides in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacterial cells. This binding disrupts the integrity of the outer membrane, making it leaky and causing the cell to lose vital contents, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. It targets gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The Synergistic Effect of the Combination
By combining Bacitracin Zinc (effective against gram-positive bacteria) and Polymyxin B Sulfate (effective against gram-negative bacteria), Polyfax Plus creates a synergistic barrier. This dual-action approach significantly broadens the spectrum of bacteria it can eliminate, making it a highly effective prophylactic ointment for minor skin trauma. The ointment base itself also helps keep the wound moist, which can promote a better healing environment.

What is Polyfax skin cream used for?

Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment is used for the prevention and treatment of superficial bacterial skin infections. Its primary use is prophylactic, meaning it is applied to minor wounds to prevent an infection from taking hold. It is indicated for a range of common skin issues where the skin’s barrier has been compromised and is susceptible to bacterial invasion. Understanding its specific applications ensures it is used correctly and effectively, maximizing its benefits while minimizing the risk of antibiotic resistance or adverse effects.

Common Uses and Benefits of Polyfax Plus Ointment

How do you apply polyfax to a wound?
Proper application is crucial for effectiveness. To apply Polyfax Plus to a wound, follow these steps:

1. Clean the Area: Gently wash the affected area with clean water and a mild soap to remove dirt and debris. Pat the area dry with a sterile gauze pad.
2. Apply a Thin Layer: Squeeze a small amount of ointment onto a clean cotton swab or your fingertip. Apply a thin layer directly over the entire wound or affected area.
3. Cover if Necessary: For wounds on areas prone to dirt or friction, you may cover it with a sterile bandage or gauze pad.
4. Repeat: Repeat this process 1 to 3 times daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Always clean the area before each reapplication.

Can we use polyfax on open wounds?
Yes, Polyfax Plus is specifically formulated for use on minor open wounds. Its primary purpose is to prevent bacterial infection in cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. However, it should not be used on deep wounds, severe burns, or puncture wounds without medical supervision.

Which ointment is best for wound healing?
While no ointment “heals” a wound directly (the body does that), the best ointments prevent complications like infection, thereby creating an ideal environment for the body’s natural healing processes. Polyfax Plus is considered one of the best antibiotic ointments for this purpose due to its dual-antibiotic formula. It protects the wound from bacterial contamination, which is a major hindrance to efficient healing.

What is the best antibiotic ointment for burns?
For minor burns and scalds, Polyfax Plus is an excellent choice. Its antibiotic action helps prevent the burned skin, which has lost its protective barrier, from becoming infected. This allows the body to focus on repairing the damaged tissue. For more severe burns, a silver-based cream like Silver Sulfadiazine (Silverex) might be prescribed by a doctor, but for first-degree and small second-degree burns, Polyfax Plus is highly effective.

Can I use Polyfax Plus on open wounds?
Reiterating for clarity, yes, Polyfax Plus Ointment is designed for use on minor open wounds. It forms a protective barrier against bacteria. For large, deep, or heavily bleeding open wounds, seek immediate medical attention before applying any OTC product.

Polyfax skin ointment uses for acne
Polyfax Plus can be used as a spot treatment for inflammatory acne lesions, particularly those that are open or have been accidentally picked. Its antibiotics can help reduce the population of acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) on the skin’s surface and within the plugged follicle, reducing redness and preventing a minor infection. However, it is not a primary acne treatment and should be used sparingly for this purpose to avoid antibiotic resistance.

Can polyfax be used for acne scars?
No, Polyfax Plus cannot be used for acne scars. It is an antibiotic, not a scar-reduction agent. It has no active ingredients, like silicones or retinoids, that are known to improve the appearance of scars. Its role is solely to manage bacterial load. For acne scars, consult a dermatologist for treatments like topical retinoids, laser therapy, or chemical peels.

Polyfax for skin whitening
This is a common and dangerous misconception. Polyfax Plus Ointment has no skin whitening or lightening properties. It does not contain hydroquinone, kojic acid, or any other depigmenting agent. Using it for this purpose is ineffective and can lead to skin irritation, contact dermatitis, and contributes to the global problem of antibiotic resistance.

Polyfax skin ointment uses for face
Polyfax Plus can be used on the face for minor cuts, scrapes, or as a targeted spot treatment for bacterial acne. However, the skin on the face is more sensitive. Use it sparingly and only on affected areas. If you experience increased redness, itching, or peeling, discontinue use immediately. Avoid applying it too close to the eyes or mouth.

Understanding the Different Variants: Polyfax vs. Polyfax Plus

Difference between polyfax and polyfax plus
The core difference lies in their antibiotic composition. While both are topical antibiotics, Polyfax typically contains only two antibiotics: Bacitracin Zinc and Polymyxin B Sulfate. Polyfax Plus often includes a third component, making it a triple antibiotic ointment. This third ingredient is usually Neomycin, which expands the spectrum of activity to cover additional bacteria.

Feature	Polyfax	Polyfax Plus
Primary Antibiotics	Bacitracin Zinc, Polymyxin B Sulfate	Bacitracin Zinc, Polymyxin B Sulfate, (Often Neomycin)
Spectrum of Coverage	Broad-spectrum (Gram-positive & Gram-negative)	Broader-spectrum (adds coverage from Neomycin)
Common Use	Preventing infection in minor wounds	Preventing infection in minor wounds, where a broader cover is desired

What is the use of Polyflex plus?
“Polyflex” is a common misspelling or confusion with Polyfax. There is no widely recognized topical ointment called “Polyflex Plus.” It is crucial to check the packaging to ensure you are using the correct product, which is “Polyfax Plus.”

What is Polyfix plus used for?
Similarly, “Polyfix” is another frequent misspelling. The intended product is almost certainly Polyfax Plus, used for the prevention of infection in minor cuts, burns, and scrapes.

What is the drug Polyflex used for?
It is important to clarify that “Polyflex” is a brand name for a completely different medication. Polyflex is the trade name for Amoxicillin, an oral penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections internally, such as respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. It is not a topical skin ointment.

How to Use Polyfax Plus Correctly and Safely

How to use skin ointment?
The general method for using any topical skin ointment like Polyfax Plus involves cleansing, drying, and then applying a thin layer to the affected area. The key is to ensure the area is clean to trap no bacteria under the ointment. Use a clean applicator, like a swab, to avoid contaminating the tube’s nozzle.

How often should Polyfax Plus be applied?
The typical recommended frequency for applying Polyfax Plus is 1 to 3 times per day. The wound should be cleaned before each new application. If the condition persists after one week of use, or if it worsens, it is advisable to stop using the product and consult a doctor.

Polyfax skin ointment for external use only
This is a critical safety warning. Polyfax Plus is for external use on the skin only. It must never be ingested, applied inside the mouth, eyes, nose, or ears. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical help immediately. Contact with the eyes should be avoided; if it happens, rinse the eyes thoroughly with clean water.

Important Safety Information: Side Effects and Warnings

What are the side effects of Polyfax plus?
While generally safe, Polyfax Plus can cause side effects in some individuals.

• Common Side Effects: These are usually localized to the area of application and may include:
  • Redness
  • Mild itching or burning sensation
  • Skin rash
• Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help):
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Intense skin irritation, swelling, or pain where the ointment was applied.
  • Signs of a new infection, such as persistent oozing, heat, or redness.

When should you not use bacitracin?
You should not use Polyfax Plus (which contains Bacitracin) if you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Bacitracin Zinc or any other component of the ointment. A history of allergic reaction to any other antibiotic ointment warrants caution.

What are the side effects of skin ointment?
In a general sense, topical skin ointments can cause contact dermatitis, which includes symptoms like redness, itching, scaling, and inflammation of the skin. These reactions can be due to the active drug or inactive ingredients in the formulation.

Can I use mupirocin on my private area?
Mupirocin is a different antibiotic ointment, often prescribed for specific infections like impetigo. Using any antibiotic, including Polyfax Plus or Mupirocin, on the genital or private areas should only be done under the direction of a doctor. The skin in these areas is highly sensitive, and self-medicating can mask symptoms of underlying conditions like sexually transmitted infections.

Can I apply mupirocin on private parts?
As above, this is not advisable without a prescription. A doctor must diagnose the issue to determine if a bacterial infection is present and which antibiotic is appropriate.

Can I use fluticasone cream on my face?
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid, not an antibiotic. Steroids like fluticasone are used to reduce inflammation and itching from conditions like eczema. Using potent steroids on the face can cause skin thinning, visible blood vessels, and acne. This question highlights the importance of using the right drug for the right condition; Polyfax Plus (an antibiotic) and Fluticasone (a steroid) are not interchangeable.

Contraindications and When to Avoid Polyfax Plus

Who should not use Polyfax Plus?
Polyfax Plus should be avoided by:

• Individuals with a known allergy to Bacitracin, Polymyxin B, or any other ingredient in the formulation.
• Patients with a history of allergic reactions to other topical antibiotic agents.
• It should not be used on deep wounds, animal bites, serious burns, or extensive areas of skin without medical advice.

Is polyfix safe to use?
Assuming this refers to the correct product, Polyfax Plus, it is considered safe for the general population when used as directed for its intended purposes. Safety is contingent on correct application, avoiding use on large areas of the body, and discontinuing use if adverse reactions occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why was Polyfax discontinued?
This is a pervasive rumor, but it is largely incorrect. Polyfax and Polyfax Plus have not been widely discontinued. There may have been temporary supply chain disruptions or regional availability issues that fueled this belief. However, as of the latest information, the product remains in production and is available in many markets, including Pakistan. Always check with local pharmacies or authorized distributors for the most current availability.

What is the difference between polyfax and neosporin?
Neosporin is another popular triple antibiotic ointment. The classic Neosporin formula contains three antibiotics: Neomycin, Polymyxin B, and Bacitracin. This makes it very similar in composition to Polyfax Plus (if it contains Neomycin). Standard Polyfax (without “Plus”) typically contains only Bacitracin and Polymyxin B, making it a double antibiotic ointment. Some individuals may be allergic to Neomycin, making the double-antibiotic Polyfax a suitable alternative.

Mycitracin vs polyfax plus
Mycitracin is also a triple antibiotic ointment, usually containing Bacitracin, Neomycin, and Polymyxin B. Therefore, its antibacterial spectrum is very similar to that of Polyfax Plus (if it is a triple formula). The choice between them often comes down to brand preference, price, and individual skin tolerance, as the inactive ingredients (the ointment base) may differ slightly.

Can I buy Polyfax Plus online?
Yes, Polyfax Plus can be purchased through various online platforms, including e-commerce websites and online pharmacies. It is crucial to buy from reputable and verified sellers to ensure you receive a genuine, unexpired product. Beware of counterfeit medicines when purchasing online.

What is the price of Polyfax Plus in Pakistan?
The price of Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment (20gm tube) in Pakistan typically ranges between PKR 250 to PKR 400. Prices can fluctuate based on the city, the specific pharmacy (online or offline), and current market conditions. It is always best to check multiple sources for the most up-to-date pricing.

Can Polyfax ointment expire?
Yes, like all medicinal products, Polyfax Plus Ointment has an expiration date printed on the tube or packaging. Using an expired ointment is not recommended as the active ingredients may have degraded and lost their potency, making the product ineffective at preventing infection.

Is polymyxin a strong antibiotic?
Polymyxin B is considered a potent antibiotic against specific gram-negative bacteria, including multi-drug resistant strains like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Its strength is highly targeted; it is not a broad-spectrum antibiotic on its own, which is why it is combined with others like Bacitracin in Polyfax Plus to create a comprehensive formula.

What are the ingredients in Polyfax plus?
The active ingredients are Bacitracin Zinc and Polymyxin B Sulfate (and often Neomycin in the “Plus” variant). Inactive ingredients, which form the ointment base, typically include liquid paraffin and white soft paraffin. These inactive components help keep the wound moist and create a protective barrier.

What is plus ointment used for?
The term “Plus” in ointment names generally indicates an enhanced or combination formula. In the context of Polyfax Plus, it signifies the addition of another antibiotic (likely Neomycin) to the base formula, broadening its spectrum of activity for more robust protection against infection in minor skin wounds.

Polyfax plus alternative
Common alternatives to Polyfax Plus include:

• Neosporin: A triple antibiotic ointment.
• Mupirocin Ointment: A prescription-strength antibiotic for specific infections like impetigo.
• Fusidic Acid Cream: Another topical antibiotic effective against staphylococcal infections.
• Betadine Ointment (Povidone-Iodine): An antiseptic rather than an antibiotic, useful for preventing infection.

Polyfax eye ointment
It is vital to distinguish between products. Standard Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment is NOT for use in the eyes. However, there is a specific Polyfax Eye Ointment formulation that is sterile and designed for ophthalmic use, such as for bacterial conjunctivitis. Never use the skin ointment in your eyes.

Polyfax plus eye ointment
As above, a dedicated ophthalmic preparation exists. Using the skin ointment in the eye can cause severe irritation and damage. Always use the product that is explicitly labeled for ophthalmic use if treating an eye condition.

Polyfax green uses
“Polyfax Green” is not a standard or officially recognized variant. This term may be a colloquial reference to the green packaging of some Polyfax products or a confusion with another product. Rely on the official product name and leaflet for accurate information.

Which is better, Silverex or burn heal?
Both are used for burns, but they work differently.

• Silverex (Silver Sulfadiazine): This is a prescription antimicrobial cream containing silver. It is widely used for the prevention and treatment of infection in second and third-degree burns. It provides a broad-spectrum antimicrobial action.
• Burn Heal: This is often a brand name for a product that may contain natural ingredients like honey, aloe vera, or other soothing agents. It is typically meant for minor, first-degree burns.
  For serious burns, Silverex is the medically established standard. For very minor burns, a product like Burn Heal or Polyfax Plus may suffice. The “best” choice depends on the severity of the burn, and for anything beyond a minor burn, a doctor’s consultation is essential.

Deeper Dives: Comparisons and Mechanisms

The Mechanism of Action: How Do Topical Antibiotics Like Polyfax Plus Work?
Topical antibiotics work by directly targeting and killing bacteria, or inhibiting their growth, on the skin’s surface. They are formulated to be minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, concentrating their effect locally. This localized action minimizes systemic side effects while effectively managing the bacterial load at the site of skin compromise, preventing a localized infection from spreading or becoming systemic.

A Comparative Analysis of Topical Antibiotic Ointments
The market offers several OTC topical antibiotics, each with slight variations.

• Double Antibiotic Ointments (e.g., standard Polyfax): Contain two antibiotics (e.g., Bacitracin & Polymyxin B). Good for general use with a lower risk of neomycin allergy.
• Triple Antibiotic Ointments (e.g., Neosporin, Polyfax Plus): Contain three antibiotics (add Neomycin). Provide a wider antibacterial cover but carry a risk of neomycin allergy, which can cause contact dermatitis.
• Single Agent Ointments (e.g., Mupirocin): Prescription-strength and used for specific, often resistant, bacterial strains.

Polyfax Plus vs. Mupirocin: When is One Preferred Over the Other?
Mupirocin is often reserved for specific situations. It is particularly effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species, including MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staph. aureus) in some cases. Doctors often prescribe it for impetigo or to decolonize MRSA from the nose. Polyfax Plus, being an OTC broad-spectrum prophylactic, is used for general wound care prevention. Mupirocin is typically not a first-line OTC choice for minor cuts and scrapes.

Understanding the Spectrum of Coverage: What Bacteria Does Polyfax Plus Target?
The combination in Polyfax Plus targets a wide array of bacteria.

• Gram-Positive Bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes.
• Gram-Negative Bacteria: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae.
  This coverage makes it effective against the most common pathogens that infect minor skin wounds.

What should never be put on a burn?
Certain substances can worsen a burn or increase infection risk. Never put on a burn:

• Butter or Oils: They trap heat and can promote bacterial growth.
• Ice: Can cause further tissue damage (frostbite).
• Cotton Wool: Fibers can stick to the burn and be difficult to remove.
• Toothpaste: A common myth; it can irritate the skin and trap heat.
  Instead, cool the burn with running cool (not cold) water and use an appropriate burn gel or a recommended antibiotic ointment like Polyfax Plus for minor cases.

What are the 4 types of ointment?
Ointment bases are classified based on their composition and properties:

1. Hydrocarbon Bases (Oleaginous): e.g., Petroleum Jelly. They are water-repellent, occlusive, and hydrating. Polyfax Plus uses this type of base.
2. Absorption Bases: e.g., Hydrous Wool Fat. They can absorb water but are still primarily oily.
3. Water-in-Oil Emulsion Bases: e.g., Cold Cream. They have a dispersing phase of oil.
4. Oil-in-Water Emulsion Bases: e.g., Creams. They are washable and less greasy.

Conclusion

Polyfax Plus Skin Ointment remains a highly effective and reliable choice for preventing infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Its dual-antibiotic formula provides broad-spectrum protection, and when used correctly—applying a thin layer to a clean wound 1-3 times daily—it significantly aids the body’s natural healing process. However, it is not a cure-all; it should not be used for skin whitening, acne scars, or deep wounds, and awareness of potential side effects, especially allergic reactions, is crucial. By understanding its proper uses, mechanisms, and limitations, consumers can leverage this trusted first-aid staple safely and effectively, ensuring their minor skin injuries heal without complication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the use of Polyflex plus?
Polyflex Plus is a common misspelling. The correct product is Polyfax Plus, a topical antibiotic ointment used to prevent and treat bacterial infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

Can I buy Polyfax Plus online?
Yes, you can purchase genuine Polyfax Plus from reputable online pharmacies and e-commerce platforms. Always ensure the seller is verified to avoid counterfeit products.

What is the price of Polyfax skin ointment in Pakistan?
The price for a 20gm tube of Polyfax Skin Ointment in Pakistan generally falls between PKR 200 and PKR 350, depending on the retailer and location.

What are the side effects of Polyfax plus?
Common side effects include redness, itching, or a mild rash at the application site. Severe allergic reactions like difficulty breathing or swelling are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Why was Polyfax discontinued?
Contrary to popular rumor, Polyfax has not been discontinued. It continues to be manufactured and is available in markets, including Pakistan, though temporary stock shortages may occur.

What is the difference between polyfax and neosporin?
The main difference is the antibiotic combination. Standard Polyfax contains two antibiotics (Bacitracin, Polymyxin B), while Neosporin is a triple antibiotic (Bacitracin, Polymyxin B, Neomycin). Some people may be allergic to Neomycin in Neosporin.

Can I use Polyfax on my face for acne?
Yes, Polyfax can be used as a spot treatment for bacterial acne on the face. However, use it sparingly as the skin on the face is sensitive, and discontinue use if irritation occurs.