Author: CD Mohatta
Source: isnare.com
Acne infection is commonly treated with topical antibiotics. Topical antibiotics kill the bacteria P. acnes and also help keep the gland unblocked. As topical antibiotics are safe to use over a long period in comparison with oral antibiotics, are preferred for moderately infected acne. The common antibiotics used topically are-Tetracycline, erythromycin, metronidazole and clindamycin. Clindamycin is the most popular antibiotic for topical application. Before discussing them individually, we must first know more about the cause of acne. The main reasons of acne formation are – blocked pores by excess hormonal activity and irregular release of dead skin cells that block the sebaceous glands. – Overproduction of Sebum is the main cause of acne. This excess sebum is blocked inside and is infected causing acne. – When it is full of sebum and blocked in the gland, the bacteria P. acnes attacks the sebum and multiplies inside the gland. This bacterium infects the gland and creates inflammation. Topical antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria P. acnes. When this bacterium is removed the infection and reduce inflammation also reduces. The lesion stops spreading inside the deeper skin and scarring is reduced. If the bacteria is allowed unchecked growth can cause further infection and scarring. We will discuss the antibiotics used. Clindamycin – This is a very good antibiotic for acne. Oral Clindamycin may cause colitis, as are preferably used topically. It is available as a cream, gel, cream, etc., and must be applied twice to the acne affected skin. If you have any history of antibiotic-induced colitis or any other colitis, do not use this. It is necessary to discuss this with your doctor before you begin using Clindamycin. Tetracycline – Tetracycline may cause allergic reactions and can also turn the skin yellow. It is commonly used as a topical antibiotic for acne. Erythromycin – Erythromycin is very popular as a topical antibiotic. It is well tolerated and causes very few side effects when used topically. It is also safe for pregnant women. Metronidazole – Metronidazole formulation is used for rosacea and acne caused during rosacea. It is commonly used for acne vulgaris. This article is for informational purposes only. This article will not be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.