Treatment applied to the skin
Patients with mild acne usually respond well to topical treatments. These include sulphur and resorcinol preparations (e.g. acne clear cream and lotion), benzoyl peroxide-containing preparations, antibiotics (erythromycin and clindamycin gel and lotions) and vitamin A-derived creams or gels (adapalene and tretinoin).
Oral treatment
If the acne worsens and there are many inflamed spots, then topical treatment alone may not be adequate. Dermatologists typically prescribe antibiotic tablets, such as doxycycline, erythromycin, minocycline or cotrimoxazole.
For severe acne
In very serious cases that do not respond to the above treatment, or in
cases of severe nodulocystic acne, a tablet called isotretinoin may be given.
This medication may give rise to side effects such as dry skin, cracked lips or
body aches. However the most serious risk is possible damage to the unborn baby
if taken during pregnancy, hence it is important for women of child-bearing age
to practice strict contraception while on isotretinoin therapy.