Topical antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that causes acne. This helps to reduce the small infections that occurs in the skins pores and keeps the pores open so they don’t clog. Topical antibiotics have been around for awhile and haven’t changed much since the first drugs were developed. All topical antibiotics for acne must be prescribed through your doctor.

Clindamycin

This is the most frequently used topical antibiotic for acne. It can be found as a solution, lotion or gel and should be applied twice a day to areas prone to acne infections. It is usually well tolerated but may cause some skin irritation to those with sensitive skin. People with regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or a prior history or antibiotic-induced colitis should not use this product.

Other products such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and Tretinoin may interact with this product so they shouldn’t be used together. Some skin cleansers and medicated soaps may interact with Clindamycin so you should use care when using these products together. Shaving cream, after-shave or lotion may also cause irritation when used together.

Side effects of Clindamycin include contact dermatitis which develops as a rash, itching, swelling or redness. Less common side effects include diarrhea, pain on swallowing, stomach pain or cramps and unusual bleeding or bruising.

Erythromycin

This is the second most common topical antibiotic prescribed for acne. It can be found as a solution, gel and ointment. It should be applied twice a day to any area prone to acne. Erythromycin is a product that is safe to be used by pregnant women. Other antibiotics should not be taken with this product unless you consult your doctor. Corticosteroid products should also be avoided since they will cover up possible problems. If you are going to use any other skin products with erythromycin then you should take with you doctor first.

Possible side effects with erythromycin are very rare but can include dry, scaly skin. Skin irritation such as burning and itching may occur if it is used with other products. Redness, swelling and pain are also side effects.

Tetracycline

This is a topical antibiotic that isn’t often prescribed by doctors. It has both an ointment and solution that can be prescribed in various strengths. It contains two ingredients - sodium bisulfite and sulfa derivative - which can cause allergic reactions. This product can also cause a yellowing of the skin.

As with erythromycin other antibiotic medicines can interact with tetracycline and corticosteroid products may cover up problems so any products used at the same time should be approved by a doctor first. There are rare side effects of tetracycline including dry, scaly skin and skin irritation including blistering, burning, peeling and itching. Redness, swelling and pain may also occur.

Metronidazole

This medicine is typically used for the acne that is caused by rosacea. It is only found in a gel form that should be applied once or twice a day. Metronidazole is very unlikely to interact with other medicines, but care should be taken if you use alcohol or warfarin with this product. If you are going to use other skin products you should talk with your doctor first as well as other medicines.

If a new skin condition or rash develops. If your rosacea worsens. If you have loss of feeling or tingling in the treated area. If you experience nausea. These are all serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately. Other reported side effects that are rarely seen including burning, itching, redness, dry skin and watery eyes. These rare side effects should be mentioned to your doctor if they continue after a period of time or if they become bothersome.

Topical Antibiotics

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