Topical Antibiotics
How do they work?
Topical antibiotics reduce the bacteria on the skin that cause acne and reduce inflammation.
How are they used?
Topical antibiotics are available as lotions or gels, and should be applied to the affected skin once or twice a day.
A six to eight-week course is generally recommended alongside a treatment that will prevent the bacteria on your skin becoming resistant to the antibiotics. This could make your symptoms worse and cause additional infections.
What are the side-effects?
Side effects are uncommon but can include:
- minor irritation of the skin
- redness and burning of the skin
- peeling of the skin.