Primarily acne is not an infection and it’s not in the least bit contagious.

Doctors are trying to reduce the use of antibiotics but need alternatives. The fact is that in acne they often work well and get things under control within a few weeks, especially when used with the right creams or gels.

And for people who don’t respond to antibiotics or who need treatment quickly, isotretinoin (Roaccutane/Accutane) often clears it up.

It is not true that using antibiotics will mean that if you develop infections in future they will not work. It is also incorrect that they will damage or impair your immune system.

The typical side effect of tetracyclines, the commonest antibiotic in acne, is some tummy discomfort. In women who are prone, vaginal thrush might be more common (although this is usually easily and quickly treated).

What antibiotics in acne can do is significantly improve the numbers of spots – the goal is a 50% reduction at 8 weeks and over 80% reduction at 16 weeks. At that stage, it may be possible to keep the skin under good control for many months by stopping the antibiotic and using a good prescribed acne cream or gel.

Ask your dermatologist for advice. You can visit our Dermatologist at Derma 360 Skin and Hair Clinic in KPHB.

No one should have to put up with acne. It can be upsetting, painful, cause embarrassment, reduce confidence and it can scar. But it is treatable and almost everyone with acne can be cleared with the right help.

Acne is not caused by lack of washing, greasy hair, dirt, food allergy or chocolate. It is caused by activity of the oil glands, especially on the face, back, and chest. This activity is controlled by hormones, which explains why acne often starts in adolescence.

Acne is not just a teenage problem but affects lots of adults, especially adult women. One in four 25-year-old women and one in twenty 40-year-old women gets adult acne.

If you are one of those struggling with acne, we suggest you consult our dermatologist at Derma 360 KPHB Skin and Hair Clinic.

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