It is used to treat mild to moderate acne and is as effective as benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin cream or oral tetracycline against troublesome skin bacteria and comedones. A small percentage of users may notice redness that shouldn t last. Back to top Topical antibiotics. These are used for mild to moderate acne that mainly affects the face. Some propionibacterium infections may become resistant to them.
Topical antibiotics are less irritating than benzoyl peroxide.
Back to top Systemic antibiotics. Four oral antibiotic treatments are available, tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline and erythromycin. Very occasionally, trimethoprim may be used. Orally taken antibiotics are useful for mild to moderate acne that affects a large area such as the face, back and chest. They must be taken regularly for prolonged lengths of time, at least three to six months.