Are Antibiotics For Acne A Good Choice?
Acne is a constant battle for some suffers. Most individuals do not respond to over-the-counter treatments and even some of the higher concentration topical prescriptions. If you are feeling hopeless you may wonder when and if antibiotics are right for your acne battle.
Before you begin any form of acne treatment you should research the possible benefits and side effects. Every product, including topical treatments and oral treatments, has the potential to help and also cause additional issues. You and your dermatologist can make a plan that is right for you.
The Beginning of Antibiotics for Acne
Some time ago most dermatologists would prescribe an antibiotic for acne in the beginning of treatment. As time has passed a wide variety of topical treatments have made their way into dermatologist’s offices and antibiotics were placed on the back burner as an alternative treatment. In general, most doctors were handing out prescriptions for antibiotics for just about anything. Some antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria were emerging due to over use of the drug so doctors and dermatologist were looking for other answers. Although most dermatologists are cautious with their use of antibiotics for acne they still do see the use for the drug with some candidates.
Antibiotics for Acne Depend On Your Type of Acne
It is safe to say that almost every person you know has had to deal with some form of acne. These individuals might have faced a random pimple during puberty or they many have had extreme breakouts in their teenage and adults years. A dermatologist will create a “game plan” for each individual based on their form of acne.
A patient with a random pimple here and there might depend on a spot treatment while the patient with severe acne may need prescription topical lotions and even antibiotics for acne. It comes down to how severe the acne is and the potential for infections.
Antibiotics for Nodular or Cystic Acne
Nodular and cystic acne are two extremely severe forms of acne. Nodules occur while the follicle tears along its bottom and results in a large red bump that is painful. Cysts are an inflamed pus filled lesion that can become large, red, and also painful to the touch. These more severe forms of acne should be assessed by a professional.
Your dermatologist will most likely prescribe antibiotics for acne including nodular and cystic forms. These forms of acne have the potential to become infected and cause greater pain and breakouts as a result.
What to Do If You Don’t Want Antibiotics for Acne
If you are a candidate for antibiotics, but do not want to take a daily prescription, you have choices. Speak with your dermatologist about prescription topical treatments and other treatment options. Some individuals will try probiotics, an over-the-counter supplement that can have positive results for some acne suffers. Probiotics help to cleanse your colon and also support the growth of good bacteria that can have benefits for some individuals dealing with acne.