Antibiotics for pimples

They are more relevant to red, tender or pus-filled spots than to blackheads alone. Using an antibiotic by itself or continuing it without review encourages bacterial resistance and may provide incomplete control.

A topical antibiotic is applied to affected skin, while an oral antibiotic works throughout the body and may be considered for more widespread inflammatory acne. Neither type addresses every process involved in acne, such as blocked pores and excess oil.

A clinician may combine antibiotic treatment with a non-antibiotic product that helps clear pores or limits resistance. Treatment choice also depends on pregnancy, breastfeeding, other medicines, skin sensitivity and whether acne is leaving scars or dark marks.

Apply or take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Cover the acne-prone area as directed rather than dabbing topical medicine only onto today's visible spots. Do not save tablets for a later flare or use an antibiotic prescribed to someone else.

Wash gently, avoid squeezing spots and choose skin products labelled non-comedogenic. Irritation can occur when several active products are started together, so follow the agreed schedule and report troublesome dryness, burning or stomach symptoms rather than quietly stopping one component.

Arrange a clinical review when pimples are deep or painful, are producing scars, cover the chest or back, or are affecting mood and confidence. A sudden acne-like eruption after starting a medicine also deserves assessment because it may need a different approach.

Seek urgent help for facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, a widespread blistering rash or other signs of a serious drug reaction. Rapidly spreading redness, marked warmth, severe pain or fever around a skin lesion can suggest an infection beyond ordinary acne.

Ask what each product is meant to do, where and how to apply it, which side effects need attention, and when the response should be reviewed. Mention any chance of pregnancy and bring a list of skincare products so irritating or duplicative ingredients can be identified.