Various forms of acne require different treatments, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Your skin type will also factor into the treatment method. Understanding the cause of your acne will help determine which treatment options are best for you and whether antibiotics will help clear up your skin.
Identification
Acne is typically marked by red, inflamed pimples or blackheads and whiteheads, according to AcneGroup.com. Acne can sometimes be severe enough to cause deep fluid-filled cysts. The cause of your acne will determine what type of acne will form and on what part of your body.
Types
There are different types of antibiotics used to treat acne, depending upon the cause. The causes can consist of an inflammatory bacterial infection lying on the surface of your skin or sometimes a bacteria that is found in your blood. Antibiotics can only be prescribed by a licensed health care provider. Topical antibiotics are used on the surface of your skin, usually applied with a cotton swab. Oral antibiotics, or systemic antibiotics, are taken by mouth for a period of time that is determined by your doctor based upon the type of acne and type of antibiotics. In some cases, there is a need for both oral and topical antibiotics, according to the AAFP. Examples of topical antibiotics include Examples of topical antibiotics include mupirocin, neomycin, polymyxin and bacitracin, whereas oral antibiotics include minocycline, doxycycline, tetracycline or isotretinoin.
Function
Antibiotics are used to kill acne-causing bacteria. Topical antibiotics kill propionibacterium, the type of bacteria commonly found on skin, according to the AAFP. The American Academy of Dermatology states that oral antibiotics work the same way, to reduce the number of propionibacterium and help reduce inflammation. Oral antibiotics are generally prescribed for patients who suffer from acne for six months or less.
Warning
Some antibiotics such as tetracycline cause your skin to become overly sensitive to the sun. The AAFP explains that it's best to apply topical antibiotics that cause sun sensitivity before bed to reduce the risk of this side effect. The AAD advises that pregnant and breast-feeding women should not take tetracycline. Tetracycline and minocycline may cause skin discoloration and discoloration of teeth.
Misconceptions
While you may believe antibiotics or using a combination of antibiotics will cure your acne, this is not completely true. The AAD states that long-term use of any type of antibiotic presents the risk of becoming resistant to antibiotics. The AAD reports that if and when this happens, a different type of antibiotic may be prescribed but may not necessarily work properly.
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