Topical Antibiotic
Topical antibiotics in creams and solutions are sometimes used in treating acne. These topical antibiotics have to be prescribed by your dermatologist. Acne develops when small particles from dead skin cells or dirt combine with oil from your skin to clog pores. This allows the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to grow in the clogged pore. The topical antibiotic kills the bacteria, thus reducing the redness and swelling, which also aids in the unclogging of the pores.
Here are some of the most common antibiotics used in acne treatments
Clindamycin
- The most frequently used topical antibiotic for acne
- Available as a solution, lotion, or gel at 1% strength
- Applied twice a day to all acne prone areas
- Generally well tolerated but may cause some irritation
Erythromycin
- Second most commonly used topical antibiotic used for acne
- Available as a solution, gel, and ointment at 2% strength.
- Applied twice a day to all acne prone areas
- Generally well tolerated but may cause some irritation
Tetracycline
- Not used very often as a topical treatment
- Available as an ointment and solution at different strengths
- Contains sodium bisulfite, a sulfa derivative, and can cause allergic reactions
- May also cause yellowing of the skin
Metronidazole
- Used frequently for acne caused by rosacea
- Available as a gel at 0.75% strength
- Applied once or twice a day
- Generally well tolerated but can cause irritation