1. One may not apply topical antibiotic ointments to minor cuts and scratches on Shabbat. The reason is that this may be considered taking medicine on Shabbat, which is forbidden if the cut or scratch is a minor one (similar to a meichush, or minor ailment). In addition, it violates the prohibition of memarei’ach (smoothing a semi-liquid substance onto another surface) (Shulchan Shlomo, Refuah).

2. If the wound is serious, such as a deep cut or a cut that appears to be open, one may apply antibiotic ointment. In this case, the possibility of infection renders it similar to a case of a choleh she’ein bo sakanah, for which medicine is permitted. To avoid memarei’ach, one should squeeze the ointment on top of the wound without smearing it directly (Chazon Ish). One may then place the bandage or gauze on top of the wound, even if the ointment will be spread out in the process. One should apply the bandage or gauze with a shinui, if possible, such as letting it fall onto the wound without applying it directly (Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchatah 33:14; Halachos of Refuah on Shabbos, p.327). According to some opinions, if one is in pain, one can rub the ointment well so that it is all absorbed in the skin. These opinions hold that ointment or cream rubbed into the skin does not violate memarei’ach (Mishnah Berurah 316:49; Peninei Halacha 28:8).

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for everlasting peace in Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.