How are antibiotics used to treat acne?
Bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes, that are naturally present on the human skin, contribute to the formation of acne lesions (see our post on the causes of acne). Antibiotics are effective treatments for acne and are believed to work both by reducing the quantity of bacteria on the skin surface and thorugh additional anti-inflammatory effects.
Antibiotics can be used topically (directly on the skin as creams, gels or ointments). Antibiotics used in this way include erythromycin (for example Zineryt) and clindamycin (for example duac gel or dalacin T). Duac is a combination treatment that also contains benzoyl peroxide.
Antibiotic tablets will usually be taken for a course of a few months of treatment. The most common are tetracyclines, for example, lymecycline are usually well tolerated. Other antibiotics that can be used include erythromycin or trimethoprim. Antibiotic tablets can be very effective treatments for mild or moderate acne, however acne can recur when they are discontinued.
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
Related Articles
- When do I need tablet treatments for my acne?
- How do you know what the right treatment is for your acne?
- What topical treatments are available for acne?
