Topical antibiotics Pimples Treatment

Topical antibiotics

Topical antibiotics mainly attack the P. acnes bacteria that cause inflammatory pimples. They do not do much against non-inflammatory comedones such as blackheads and whiteheads.

Two of the most commonly used topical antibodies are erythromycin and clindamycin. As with all antibiotics, they have to be prescribed by a doctor and cannot be purchased over the counter. Erythromycin is available in 1% to 4% concentration while clindamycin is only available in 1% concentration. Erythromycin comes as alcohol-based solution, lotion, gel or ointment. Clindamycin comes as alcohol-based solution, alcohol-free lotion or gel. Both antibiotics are equally effective against inflammatory acne.

Topical antibiotics should be applied once or twice daily on clean, dry affected skin areas of inflammatory acne only.  You should see the effect of topical antibiotics within four to six weeks of usage. Benzoyl peroxide can be used together with topical antibiotics for a more effective treatment.

Side effects

Prolonged usage of tropical antibiotics is not advisable as it might lead to the emergence of antibiotic-resistance bacteria. However, studies have shown the resistance can be reduced by combining antibiotics with benzoyl peroxide.

Mild side effects such as redness, dryness and skin irritation could be observed with tropical antibiotics. These side effects only affect a small proportion of users. If the side effect is getting too serious to handle, go see a doctor for advice.

Tropical Pimple Treatments

Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic acid, Tropical retinoids, Topical antibiotics

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