Acne Control - Topical Antibiotics To Help You Look Your Best

Bacteria play a major part in the formation of a pimple. Its growth in closed pores is what causes the pain and inflammation of acne. Thats why topical antibiotics are so often used for acne control and prevention. The use of these for controlling acne has a twofold effect. They kill the propionibacterium acnes bacteria in clogged pores and also open the pores. The most common topical antibiotic used to control acne is Clindamycin. Erythromycin another of the acne controls is prescribed almost as often. Others include tetracycline, which is more likely to cause allergic reactions, and metronidazole.

Topical antibiotics usually come in gel, ointment, or liquid form and are applied to the skin twice a day. All may cause skin irritations and if you suffer any adverse effects, you should tell your doctor.

Acne Control Using Other Medications

Sometimes a doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics together with a topical retinoid, which is a form of Vitamin A. If you have deep acne nodules or cysts your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to reduce the risk of scarring during acne control. He may also prescribe an oral retinoid such as Accutane, which works by shrinking sebaceous glands, reducing the amount of sebum available to clog pores in the first place.

Other lotions prescribed with antibiotics include gels and creams containing benzoyl peroxide, which speeds up the shedding of skin cells and kills bacteria too. Home treatments that can be used to control acne include tea tree oil and other herbal remedies. In fact, there are many treatments available today to acne sufferers and new ones appear every day. Make sure you get your doctor or skin specialist to advise you of your options.