Topical antibiotics

Antibiotics are agents that inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Topical antibiotics are medications that is applied to the surface of the skin that help prevent infections caused by bacteria. It is generally applied in the forms of ointment and creams.

There are a number of ways of  topical acne antibiotic preparations. However, they are not effective in unplugging of blocked skin pores. As a result, they are unable to remove comedones, but still they are a good methods of treating inflamed acne.

How it works?

Topical acne antibiotics work by killing the acnes bacteria. Killing bacteria help keep the skin pores open. In addition, it reduce the small infections in the pores.

Side effects

• The treated area become dry after application of the treatment.
• Even though it is a rare and not severe condition, skin irritation is one of the side effect  from topical acne antibiotics.
• As a results of allergic reaction to the treatment, there might be redness, dryness and itching on the surface  of the skin.
• Due to irregular use of the antibiotics, bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics.

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Almost all topical antibiotics should be prescribed by a

health care provider.

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How should topical antibiotics be used?

• Apply the antibiotics following instruction on the label or prescribed by your doctor.
• Don't use the medication in smaller or larger amounts. Stick to the recommended dose.
• Stick to the recommended duration.
• Clean your hand before apply this treatments and dry it thoroughly.
• Don't use on deep cut or burn skin.
• You can cover the wound using bandage if necessary.
• If the skin get worst while using treatments, contact your doctor.

Commonly used topical acne antibiotics

Clindamycin

• Is the common forms for treatment of acne.
• It is found in the forms of 1% strength solution, lotion, or gel.
• It is applied two times a day to all acne affected areas.
• May cause some irritation.
• It should not be used by people with a history of antibiotic-induced colitis.
  

Erythromycin

• Another forms of  topical-antibiotic used for acne.
• It is available in the forms of 2% strength  solution, gel, and ointment.
• It is applied two times a day to all acne affected areas.
• May cause some irritation.
  

Tetracycline

• It is not a very common topical antibiotic to treat acne.
• It is available at different strength as an ointment or solution.
• Can cause allergic reactions.
• It may result  yellowing of  skin.
  

Metronidazole

• Usually used for treatments of acne caused by rosacea.
• It is available in the forms of gel at 0.75% strength.
• It is applied one time or two times a day to all acne affected areas.
• Can cause irritation.
  

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